Small Plants & Shrubs for Colorado
- Roses and vines both work well in areas with limited space, while providing some privacy, says Colorado State University Extension. Ornamental grasses take little ground space, although grow several feet tall, depending on the cultivar. For low-growing plants, consider spring-flowering bulbs such as daffodils, or groundcovers such as verbena or Virginia creeper.
- Bagatelle barberry matures at a height and width of just 18 inches, providing red-colored foliage that gets even richer in shade during the fall. For a slightly larger specimen, try the alpine current, a 3-foot tall shrub with green foliage that turns yellow in the fall. Colorado State University Extension recommends the 4 to 6 foot tall regent serviceberry, or Spanish gold broom shrubs if you have the space; both flower in the spring.
- Evergreens offer year-round color, but often require more maintenance than other shrubs, if not chosen carefully, according to University of Minnesota Extension. An evergreen with minimal pruning requirements, the Mops dwarf mugo pine grows in a rounded, compact shape, reaching only 3 feet in height and width. The Green Globe juniper reaches only slightly higher than this, approximately 4 feet at maturity, preferring a location with partial sun. Yew dwarf cultivars reach 3 to 5 feet in height, with several well-pruned yews creating a satisfactory privacy hedge.
