Seeking Evergreen Shrub for Part Sunny area in Zone 8?

[nellie923]

I just took out seom very old and gnarly shrubs from the front of my house (morning sun) and am working on new plantings. At first, I was going to plant hydrangeas along the back wall, but now I think I need something taller and ever green to the right of the window to balance out the Japanese maple on the left side. Maybe something that gets no taller tahn 8'. Possibilities are camellia, which has become challenging to grow here as our winters often get down to 0. Someone recommended a cherry laurel, but I think it might get to be too big. I would like something that flowers, but that is not critical. Any ideas/

 

[Meadowlark]

Have you considered Azaleas?

 

[nellie923]

Yes, but they grow very slowly. The bed you see here is on the right side of my entrance, and on the left, is a long line of azaleas. They bloom in spring and then have little interest the rest of the year, although they are evergreen, it's true. Maybe an encore azalea would work, if it gets tall enough.

 

[Meadowlark]

The Encore only gets about 5 ft tall in my experience...great plant.

 

[Meadowlark]

How about Gardenia? I love the fragrance and the white blooms. Easy care and meets your size criteria.

 

[Esther Knapicius]

You don't have to focus on zone 8, can select zone 7 and 6. I see in your picture you have a window, so selection of, needs height consideration.