The Ultimate Guide to 10 Bushes That Flower All Summer Long

Spring is a magical time of year when the landscape comes alive with an array of beautiful flowers. But wouldn’t it be amazing if those spring blooms could last all summer long? With the right selection of flowering bushes in your yard, you can enjoy vibrant colors and delightful fragrances for months with minimal maintenance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 bushes that bloom early and continue to flower throughout the summer, adding beauty and charm to your outdoor space.

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The Beauty of Summer-Flowering Bushes

As the seasons change and the temperatures rise, it’s time to embrace the beauty of summer-flowering bushes. These plants not only provide stunning blooms that last for months, but they also attract pollinators, enhance curb appeal, and create a welcoming outdoor environment. Whether you have a green thumb or are new to gardening, these 10 bushes are sure to bring joy and color to your summer landscape.

1. Neon Flash Spirea (Spiraea japonica ‘Neon Flash’)

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The ‘Neon Flash’ spirea is a delightful bush that begins blooming in late spring and continues to show off its vibrant color into early summer. This reblooming shrub falls into the category of late summer flowering plants, making it a versatile and long-lasting addition to any garden. While some spireas are known for their blooms, the ‘Goldflame’ variety is chosen for its striking foliage.

2. Candy Oh! Rose (Rosa ‘Zlemartincipar’ Candy Oh!)

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Don’t let the misconception that roses are difficult to grow deter you from enjoying the beauty of the Candy Oh! rose. This easy-to-grow landscape rose blooms in early summer, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your garden. With the right care and attention, you can watch these stunning roses flourish and thrive throughout the summer months.

3. Invincibelle Spirit Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens ‘Invincibelle Spirit’)

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Celebrate the 4th of July with the Invincibelle Spirit hydrangea, a patriotic plant that boasts red, white, and blue flowers. Developed at North Carolina State University’s Mountain Horticultural Crops Research Station, this hydrangea is a stunning addition to any garden. While the flowers may start off red and fade to pink, their beauty and appeal last throughout the summer months.

4. Incrediball Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens ‘Abetwo’ Incrediball)

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The Incrediball hydrangea is a showstopper with its impressive flower head that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. While it may lack vibrant colors, this white hydrangea makes up for it with its size and presence. To prevent the flowers from succumbing to the weight of rainwater, consider staking them for added support and stability.

5. Nikko Blue Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Nikko Blue’)

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Grown in acidic soils, the Nikko Blue hydrangea produces stunning blue flowers that add a pop of color to your garden. This cultivar falls into both the bigleaf and mophead hydrangea categories, depending on whether you’re focusing on the foliage or the flowers. Keep in mind that the flower color of the Nikko Blue hydrangea is determined by the pH of the soil, so adjust accordingly for optimal bloom.

6. English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

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The English Lavender is a charming and aromatic plant that blooms early in the summer, adding a touch of romance to any garden. While it is on the smaller side, this plant is a reliable bloomer that requires minimal maintenance. With its silvery leaves and fragrant blooms, the English Lavender is a must-have for any garden lover.

7. Smoke Bush (Cotinus coggygria)

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The Smoke Bush, also known as the smoketree, is a unique and fascinating shrub that adds a touch of whimsy to your outdoor space. With its pink flower clusters resembling puffs of smoke, this plant is a conversation starter and a visual delight. Some cultivars even boast purple leaves, adding a pop of color and contrast to your garden.

8. Miss Kim Lilac (Syringa pubescens subsp. patula ‘Miss Kim’)

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The Miss Kim Lilac is a lesser-known variety of lilac shrub that blooms later than its more popular counterparts. While many prefer the smell of the Syringa vulgaris lilac, the Miss Kim Lilac offers stunning color and beauty in the early summer months. Whether you’re a fan of lilac scents or simply appreciate the visual appeal of these shrubs, the Miss Kim Lilac is a fantastic addition to any garden.

9. Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)

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The Oakleaf Hydrangea is a versatile shrub that offers year-round interest in your landscape. Blooming in early summer with typical hydrangea flowers, this bush is known for its stunning fall foliage that adds a touch of warmth and color to the autumn months. A must-have shrub for Northern landscapes, the Oakleaf Hydrangea is sure to become a favorite in your garden.

10. Virginia Sweetspire (Itea virginica)

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The Virginia Sweetspire is a charming shrub that blooms in early summer, showcasing spiky white flowers that add elegance to your garden. While the blooms are attractive, the true highlight of this bush is its stunning fall foliage, which transforms your outdoor space with vibrant colors and hues. A perfect choice for fall color enthusiasts, the Virginia Sweetspire is a delightful addition to any garden.

Bringing Summer Splendor to Your Garden

As you explore the world of summer-flowering bushes, consider incorporating these 10 stunning plants into your landscape for a season of color and beauty. With their vibrant blooms, attractive foliage, and low maintenance requirements, these bushes are sure to enhance your outdoor space and provide joy and tranquility throughout the summer months. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice enthusiast, these plants are the perfect choice for a summer garden that blooms with splendor and charm.