When it comes to creating a beautiful and thriving landscape around your home, choosing the right plants is essential. At Perkinson Homes, we partner with local vendors who assist with selecting plants that look great and thrive in the Richmond, VA, climate. Here are some recommendations for trees, shrubs, and other plants that are well-suited to our region and easy to care for.
Trees
Richmond’s climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters, provides an excellent environment for various trees. One of the most beloved choices is the Dogwood Tree (Cornus florida), Virginia’s state tree. Dogwoods are known for their beautiful white or pink flowers in the spring and vibrant red foliage in the fall. They prefer partial shade and well-drained soil, making them relatively low-maintenance.
Another excellent option is the Red Maple (Acer rubrum). These trees are prized for their stunning red and orange fall colors. Red Maples are adaptable to many soil types and conditions, including wet areas, which can be beneficial during Richmond’s rainy seasons. They grow relatively quickly and provide ample shade, making them a popular choice for homeowners.
Shrubs
When it comes to shrubs, the Azalea (Rhododendron spp.) is a favorite in the Richmond area. Azaleas are known for their vibrant blooms, which come in various colors, including pink, red, white, and purple. They thrive in acidic soil and partial shade, making them perfect for adding color to shady spots in your garden. Regular watering and mulching will help keep them healthy and blooming year after year.
Boxwood (Buxus spp.) is another excellent shrub for Richmond landscapes. Boxwoods are evergreen, providing year-round structure and color to your garden. They are incredibly versatile and can be used for hedges, borders, or stand-alone specimens. Boxwoods prefer well-drained soil and can tolerate sun and shade, although some afternoon shade is beneficial in the hottest part of summer.
Perennials and Groundcovers
For perennials, the Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) is a fantastic choice. These cheerful, bright yellow flowers with dark centers are not only beautiful but also incredibly resilient. Once established, Black-eyed Susans thrive in full sun and are drought-tolerant, making them easy to care for. They also attract butterflies and other pollinators, adding to the ecological value of your garden.
Hostas are excellent groundcovers for shaded areas. These plants are known for their lush, green foliage in various shapes and sizes. Hostas are low-maintenance and can thrive in various soil conditions with adequate moisture. In the summer, they also produce lovely, delicate flowers on tall stems.
Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses add texture and movement to your landscape. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) is a native grass that does exceptionally well in Richmond. It’s known for its tall, airy plumes that turn a beautiful golden color in the fall. Switchgrass is drought-tolerant, deer-resistant and provides excellent habitat for wildlife.
Another great option is Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris), which produces stunning pink or purple plumes in the late summer and fall. This grass prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is relatively low-maintenance. Its striking color and form make it a standout addition to any garden.
Final Thoughts
Creating a beautiful, thriving landscape in Richmond, VA, is all about choosing plants well-suited to the local climate and easy to care for. By incorporating trees like Dogwoods and Red Maples, shrubs such as Azaleas and Boxwoods, perennials like Black-eyed Susans and Hostas, and ornamental grasses like Switchgrass and Muhly Grass, you can enjoy a vibrant, low-maintenance garden year-round.
At Perkinson Homes, we’re here to help you make the most of your outdoor space by working with experienced landscapers in the area to select plants that enhance the beauty and value of your home. If you ever have any questions about how to care for the landscaping of your Perkinson Home, or any questions at all, don’t hesitate to reach out to someone on the Perk team!
