Offering structure, colour, scent and wildlife-value, shrubs are incredibly useful in the garden.

Bear in mind that summer isn’t the ideal time to plant a shrub, as the ground is drier, making it more difficult for roots to successfully establish. The same is also true when transplanting shrubs. Instead, carry out these jobs anytime from late autumn to mid-spring.

More August planting inspiration:

Discover five shrubs that look good in August, below.

Cotton lavender, Santolina, oozes Mediterranean charm.

Common myrtle

If you’re looking for an evergreen shrub for the garden, common myrtle (Myrtus communis) is one to consider. Stunning, scented flowers and aromatic foliage add to the appeal of this Mediterranean native.

White flowers on common myrtle

Hardy hibiscus

Hardy hibiscus, or tree hollyhocks, include the cultivars of Hibiscus syriacus, including ‘Woodbridge’, ‘Blue Bird’ and ‘Lilac Queen’ (pictured). They come into leaf around June, but are well worth the wait and easy to grow.

Hardy hibiscus ‘Lilac Queen’ flowers with lilac edged petals and rust centres

Santolina

Cotton lavender, Santolina, oozes Mediterranean charm. Pick a hot, sunny spot and it’ll flower from July to August. Cut back flowering shoots once they’ve faded, to retain a neat and compact shape.

Grey-green cotton lavender foliage

Roses

With the multitude of gorgeous cultivars available, you’re bound to find one, or more likely several roses to suit your plot. Deadheading is easy and will encourage further blooms.

Peachy yellow rose blooms

Caryopteris

Also known as bluebeard, Caryopteris are attractive and well-behaved shrubs that bloom in late-summer and August. Extremely good plants for bees. Aromatic leaves are an added bonus.

Silvery foliage and blue flowers of bluebeard, Caryopteris x clandonensis