Between herbaceous plants and full-sized trees sits a useful middle ground. A shrub is a woody plant that remains relatively low and usually produces multiple stems from the base rather than a single trunk. Shrubs provide structure, screening, flowers, and berries throughout the year.

Deciduous shrubs drop their leaves in autumn; evergreens keep foliage year-round. Many are grown for seasonal displays—spring blossom, summer flowers, autumn color, or winter stems. Size at maturity guides placement so that plants do not outgrow their space.

Pruning maintains shape and vigor. Some shrubs bloom on old wood and are cut after flowering; others flower on new growth and are pruned in late winter. A well-chosen mix of shrubs forms the backbone of many gardens, needing less frequent replacement than perennials or annuals.

• Woody plant with multiple stems
• Smaller than a typical tree
• Provides year-round structure
• Includes both deciduous and evergreen types