10 Low Growing Shrubs for Front of House Landscaping Ideas
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When it comes to designing the front of your house, the first impression is everything. A well-manicured and visually appealing landscape can make a huge impact on the curb appeal of your property, while a lackluster or overgrown exterior can be a major turn-off.
One of the most effective ways to add some serious curb appeal to your front yard is by incorporating low-growing shrubs into your design. Not only do they require minimal maintenance, but they also provide a beautiful backdrop for your home’s exterior, add texture and interest to your garden, and can even help to define your outdoor spaces.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular and versatile low-growing shrubs for the front of your house, and provide some inspiring ideas for incorporating them into your own landscape design.
Shrubs and Hedges: Discover, Grow, and Care for the World's Most Popular Plants
(as of February 26, 2026 10:47 GMT -05:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Creeping Thyme for Fragrant Ground Cover
Creeping Thyme is an excellent choice for fragrant ground cover, adding both beauty and functionality to your garden. With its low-growing, sprawling habit, it perfectly complements low shrubs, creating a lush, layered effect in front of your house. The tiny purple flowers not only attract pollinators but also release a delightful aroma when stepped on, enhancing your outdoor experience. This hardy plant thrives in sunny locations and offers excellent drought resistance, making it a practical and attractive addition to any landscape.
Dwarf Boxwood for Classic Elegance
Dwarf Boxwood, with its dense, lush greenery and compact growth habit, is the epitome of classic elegance for front-of-house landscaping. This low-growing shrub maintains a polished appearance year-round, making it a favored choice for formal gardens and structured landscapes. Its versatility allows it to complement various architectural styles, while its resilience ensures a low-maintenance option for homeowners. Pruning can easily shape it into neat hedges or decorative topiaries, enhancing the sophisticated charm of any garden setting.
Sedum for Vibrant, Succulent Colors
Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is an excellent choice for adding vibrant, succulent colors to the front of your home garden. These low-growing shrubs thrive in sunny conditions and come in a variety of shades, from deep greens to striking reds and yellows. Their fleshy leaves and star-shaped flowers provide visual interest throughout the seasons, while their drought-tolerant nature makes them a practical option for low-maintenance landscaping. Incorporating Sedum into your garden design not only enhances curb appeal but also attracts pollinators, creating a lively and colorful outdoor space.
Japanese Peppers for Unique Texture
Japanese Peppers, also known as Shishito peppers, are a delightful addition to any garden, especially as low-growing shrubs at the front of the house. Their vibrant green foliage creates an attractive backdrop for their small, glossy peppers, which add a pop of color and intrigue. These plants not only provide a unique texture with their wrinkled, thin skin, but they also offer a mild flavor that can enhance a variety of culinary dishes. Ideal for warmer climates, Japanese Peppers can thrive in containers or garden beds, making them versatile for any landscape design.
Low-Growing Hydrangeas for Beautiful Blooms
Low-growing hydrangeas, such as the popular ‘Little Lime’ or ‘Bobo’, are ideal for adding vibrant color to the front of your home. These compact shrubs typically reach heights of 3 to 4 feet and boast an abundance of stunning blooms that transition from creamy white to soft pink and even deep burgundy as the season progresses. Their lush foliage provides an attractive backdrop, making them perfect for garden borders or foundation plantings. With minimal maintenance and a willingness to thrive in both sunny and partially shaded areas, low-growing hydrangeas are a fantastic choice for any landscape design.
Pineapple Guava for Exotic Flair
Pineapple Guava, also known as Feijoa, is a stunning low-growing shrub that adds a tropical flair to any garden. With its glossy green leaves and striking, fragrant flowers that bloom in shades of cream and crimson, this plant is both beautiful and aromatic. The sweet, aromatic fruit it produces is a delightful bonus, offering a unique flavor reminiscent of pineapple and mint. Ideal for front-of-house landscaping, Pineapple Guava not only enhances curb appeal but also attracts pollinators, making it a true garden gem.
Lavender for Soothing Scents and Colors
Lavender is a quintessential addition to any garden, offering both soothing scents and calming hues. The soft purple flowers and silvery-green foliage create a visually appealing contrast that enhances the front of a house. As a low-growing shrub, it makes for an excellent border or accent plant, inviting bees and butterflies while releasing its aromatic fragrance. Its drought-resistant nature adds to its allure, making it a practical choice for easy-care landscaping.
Bamboo for Modern, Architectural Appeal
Bamboo has emerged as a stylish choice for modern landscaping, particularly when used as a low-growing shrub in front of the house. Its sleek, vertical growth and lush greenery create a striking contrast against contemporary architectural lines. Additionally, bamboo’s natural elegance and ability to thrive in various conditions make it a versatile addition to any garden design. Incorporating bamboo can enhance the overall aesthetic while promoting a serene, tranquil outdoor environment.
Abelia for Pleasant Fragrance and Beauty
Abelia is a charming low-growing shrub that adds both beauty and a delightful fragrance to your garden. With its arching branches and glossy, vibrant leaves, Abelia creates a lush backdrop for any front yard. Its small, tubular flowers bloom abundantly throughout the summer, attracting pollinators and filling the air with a sweet, pleasant scent. This versatile shrub not only enhances curb appeal but also brings life and color to your landscape.
Juniper for Hardy, Drought-Resistant Option
Juniper is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking hardy, drought-resistant shrubs to enhance the front of their houses. With its low-growing habit and versatile forms, Juniper can easily complement various landscaping styles, from formal to rustic. This evergreen shrub not only provides year-round color but also requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for busy gardeners. Additionally, its ability to thrive in poor soils and withstand dry conditions makes it a reliable option for sustainable landscaping.
