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Shrub

by Achim Dobermann
Published: Last Updated on
shrub

A shrub is a woody plant that is smaller than a tree and typically has multiple stems. Shrubs are often used in landscaping and horticulture as decorative plants or for their functional value, such as providing privacy or serving as a windbreak. Shrubs can be evergreen or deciduous and can range in size from a few inches to several feet tall. Some common shrubs include bushes, hedges, and small trees. Shrubs can be propagated by rooting cuttings or by planting seeds.

Shrubs are an important part of the ecosystem and provide habitat and food for wildlife. Many shrubs have fragrant flowers and produce fruit, which can be eaten by animals or used in cooking and medicine. Shrubs can also be used for medicinal purposes, as some species have been used for centuries to treat various ailments.

Etymology

The word “shrub” comes from the Middle English word “shrubbe,” which itself is derived from the Old English word “scrubbe.” Both of these words referred to a woody plant that was low-growing or had many branches. The word “scrubbe” is thought to be related to the Old Norse word “skrubba,” which means “to scrape,” possibly because shrubs are often used for scrubbing or cleaning.

The word “shrub” has been in use in English since the 14th century and has been used to refer to a wide variety of woody plants, including bushes, hedges, and small trees. In modern English, the term “shrub” is often used to describe a plant that is smaller than a tree and has multiple stems, although the exact definition of a shrub can vary depending on the context.

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Botanical definition

The botanical definition of a shrub is a woody plant that is smaller than a tree and typically has multiple stems. According to the International Association for Plant Taxonomy (IAPT), a shrub is typically defined as a woody plant that is less than 6 meters (20 feet) tall and has several stems. This definition is based on the size and growth habit of the plant, rather than any specific characteristics of its leaves, flowers, or fruit.

Botanical classification

The term “shrub” is not a taxonomic category and does not correspond to a specific rank or classification in the plant kingdom. Instead, it is a general term used to describe a group of plants that share certain characteristics, such as size and growth habit.

In botanical classification, plants are usually grouped according to their shared characteristics, such as the structure of their flowers, fruits, leaves, and other physical features. The most widely used system of plant classification is the Linnaean system, which was developed by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century.

In the Linnaean system, plants are classified into a hierarchy of categories based on their characteristics. The highest category is the kingdom, which is divided into smaller categories, such as phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species.

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Botanical classification

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Shrubs belong to the class Magnoliopsida (also known as Dicotyledoneae), which includes plants that have two cotyledons (seed leaves) and flowers with petals and sepals. Within this class, shrubs are further divided into families, genera, and species based on their specific characteristics.

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For example, the rose family (Rosaceae) includes a wide variety of shrubs, such as apples, cherries, and raspberries. The lilac family (Oleaceae) includes several popular shrubs, such as olive trees and lilacs.

It is important to note that the botanical classification of plants is constantly evolving as scientists learn more about their characteristics and relationships. New classification systems and categories may be proposed and adopted as our understanding of the plant kingdom improves.

Types of shrub

Here is a list of some common types of shrubs, along with their uses, importance, and examples:

Deciduous shrub

These shrubs lose their leaves during the fall and winter months and are often used for their ornamental value. They can provide year-round interest with their colorful foliage, flowers, and fruit. Examples include azaleas, blueberries, and lilacs.

Evergreen shrub

These shrubs retain their leaves throughout the year and are often used for their ability to provide year-round greenery in the landscape. They can provide privacy, windbreaks, and noise reduction. Examples include boxwoods, holly, and junipers.

Flowering shrub

These shrubs produce showy flowers and are often used for their ornamental value. They can provide color, fragrance, and attraction to pollinators. Examples include hydrangeas, mock oranges, and spireas.

Fruit-bearing shrub

These shrubs produce edible fruit and are often used for their ability to provide food for humans and wildlife. They can also provide ornamental value with their flowers and colorful fruit. Examples include cranberries, olives, and raspberries.

Types of shrub

Low-growing shrub

These shrubs have a low-growing habit and are often used as ground covers or as borders along walkways or garden beds. They can provide erosion control, weed suppression, and ground cover for shady areas. Examples include pachysandra, periwinkle, and vinca.

Shade-tolerant shrub

These shrubs can grow in partial shade or full shade and are often used in garden areas that receive limited sunlight. They can provide color and interest in shaded areas and can also be used to create privacy or add texture to the landscape. Examples include azaleas, camellias, and hostas.

Drought-tolerant shrub

These shrubs can withstand dry conditions and are often used in garden areas that receive limited water. They can provide color and interest in dry areas and can also be used to create privacy or add texture to the landscape. Examples include barberry, crape myrtle, and rosemary.

Native shrub

These shrubs are native to a particular region and are often used for their ability to attract native wildlife and support local ecosystems. They can also be used to create a natural, native look in the landscape. Examples include elderberry, sumac, and viburnum.

Invasive shrub

These shrubs have the ability to spread aggressively and can take over an area, potentially displacing native plants. It is important to carefully research and choose non-invasive shrubs to plant in the landscape. Examples include Japanese barberry, multiflora rose, and tree-of-heaven.

Medicinal shrub

These shrubs have been used for their medicinal properties for centuries and are often used in herbal remedies. Examples include chasteberry, ginkgo, and St. John’s wort.

Uses of shrub

Shrubs have a wide range of uses, both practical and ornamental. Some of the main uses of shrubs include:

1. Landscaping and gardening: Shrubs are popular plants in landscaping and gardening, as they can add color, texture, and interest to a garden. They can be planted as standalone plants or used as a border or hedge. Some popular shrubs for landscaping include azaleas, hydrangeas, lilacs, and rhododendrons.

Uses of shrub

2. Wildlife habitat and food: Shrubs provide habitat and food for a variety of animals, including birds, insects, and small mammals. Many shrubs have fragrant flowers and produce fruit, which can be eaten by animals or used in cooking and medicine.

3. Medicine: Some shrubs have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. For example, willow bark (from the willow shrub) has been used to treat pain and inflammation, and chasteberry (from the chaste tree shrub) has been used to regulate menstrual cycles and treat PMS.

4. Cooking and beverages: Shrubs are used in cooking and beverages in various ways. For example, some fruit-bearing shrubs, such as cranberries, currants, and blueberries, can be eaten fresh or used to make jams, jellies, and other preserves. Shrubs are also used to make vinegar-based drinks, known as “shrub drinks,” which are made by mixing fruit or herb-infused vinegar with sugar and water.

5. Timber: Some shrubs, such as willows and poplars, are used for timber, as their wood is soft and easy to work with.

6. Dye: Some shrubs, such as sumac and madder, are used to make natural dyes for fabrics and other materials.

7. Land rehabilitation and restoration: Shrubs can be used in land rehabilitation and restoration projects to help restore damaged or degraded ecosystems. For example, a study published in the journal Environmental Science and Pollution Research found that planting shrubs in mined areas can help improve soil structure and water retention, which can help support the reestablishment of vegetation.

8. Soil erosion control: Shrubs can be used to help control soil erosion, particularly on slopes and other areas prone to erosion. A study published in the journal Ecological Engineering found that planting shrubs on slopes can help reduce erosion by intercepting rainwater and increasing the infiltration of water into the soil.

9. Carbon sequestration: Some shrubs, such as willows and poplars, can absorb and store significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, making them useful for carbon sequestration. A study published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology found that willows and poplars planted on degraded land can sequester up to 4.5 metric tons of carbon per hectare per year.

10. Biofuel production: Shrubs, such as jatropha and salicornia, can be used to produce biofuels. A study published in the journal Bioresource Technology found that jatropha shrubs grown in arid regions can produce up to 2,000 liters of biodiesel per hectare per year.

11. Apiculture: Shrubs, particularly those that produce nectar and pollen, can be used to support bee populations and improve apiculture. A study published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology found that planting shrubs that bloom at different times of the year can provide a consistent source of nectar and pollen for bees, improving honey production and the health of the hive.

Health benefits of shrub

Many shrubs have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of health conditions. Here are some general potential health benefits of shrubs:

Reducing inflammation: Some shrubs, such as blackberry and basil, contain compounds called flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a normal response of the immune system to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of various diseases, including heart disease and cancer. Shrubs with anti-inflammatory properties may be useful in reducing inflammation and preventing these diseases.

Reducing oxidative stress: Some shrubs, such as blackberry and blueberry, contain high levels of antioxidants, which can help reduce oxidative stress in the body. Oxidative stress is a process that occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals (reactive oxygen species) and the body’s ability to neutralize them. Over time, oxidative stress can damage cells and tissues, contributing to the development of various diseases. Shrubs with high levels of antioxidants may be useful in reducing oxidative stress and preventing these diseases.

Health benefits of shrub

Boosting the immune system: Some shrubs, such as echinacea, have been traditionally used to boost the immune system and may be effective in supporting immune function. A healthy immune system is important for protecting the body against infections and diseases.

Reducing pain: Some shrubs, such as willow and turmeric, have been traditionally used to reduce pain and may be effective in reducing pain in people with various conditions, such as osteoarthritis and cancer.

Reducing blood pressure: Some shrubs, such as garlic, have been traditionally used to reduce blood pressure and may be effective in lowering blood pressure. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke, and reducing blood pressure can help lower the risk of these conditions.

Reducing cholesterol: Some shrubs, such as garlic, have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels in some studies. High cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke, and reducing cholesterol can help lower the risk of these conditions.

Reducing fever: Some shrubs, such as willow, have been traditionally used to reduce fever and may be effective in reducing body temperature. Fever is a common symptom of illness and is often a sign that the body is fighting an infection. Reducing fever can help make the person more comfortable and may help speed up the recovery process.

Improving memory and cognitive function: Some shrubs, such as rosemary and blueberry, have been traditionally used to improve memory and cognitive function, and some studies have found that they may have a positive effect on brain health. Maintaining good cognitive function is important for overall health and well-being, and anything that can help improve memory and cognitive function may be beneficial.

Reducing the risk of cancer: Some shrubs, such as turmeric, have been shown to have anti-cancer properties in some studies. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-tumor effects in some studies. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential cancer-preventive properties of shrubs and to determine the optimal dosages and methods of use.

Reducing the risk of diabetes: Some shrubs, such as gymnema, have been traditionally used to reduce the risk of diabetes and may be effective in controlling blood sugar levels. Gymnema contains a compound called gymnemic acid, which has been shown to reduce the absorption of sugar in the intestine and may help improve insulin sensitivity.

List of common shrub

Here is a list of 25 common shrubs, organized alphabetically by common name, along with their scientific name and region of origin or cultivation:

  1. Azalea (Rhododendron spp.) – native to Asia and North America
  2. Boxwood (Buxus spp.) – native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa
  3. Camellia (Camellia spp.) – native to Asia
  4. Caragana (Caragana spp.) – native to Asia and Europe
  5. Cranberry (Vaccinium spp.) – native to North America
  6. Euonymus (Euonymus spp.) – native to Asia and North America
  7. Forsythia (Forsythia spp.) – native to Asia
  8. Holly (Ilex spp.) – native to Europe, Asia, and North America
  9. Hydrangea (Hydrangea spp.) – native to Asia and North America
  10. Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) – native to Japan and China
  11. Juniper (Juniperus spp.) – native to North America, Asia, and Europe
  12. Lilac (Syringa spp.) – native to Europe and Asia
  13. Mahonia (Mahonia spp.) – native to North and Central America
  14. Mock orange (Philadelphus spp.) – native to North and Central America
  15. Ninebark (Physocarpus spp.) – native to North America
  16. Olive (Olea europaea) – native to the Mediterranean region
  17. Pachysandra (Pachysandra spp.) – native to Japan and China
  18. Pieris (Pieris spp.) – native to Asia and North America
  19. Pyracantha (Pyracantha spp.) – native to Asia and Europe
  20. Rhododendron (Rhododendron spp.) – native to Asia and North America
  21. Rose (Rosa spp.) – native to Europe, Asia, and North America
  22. Spirea (Spiraea spp.) – native to Asia and North America
  23. Tamarisk (Tamarix spp.) – native to Asia and Europe
  24. Viburnum (Viburnum spp.) – native to North and Central America, Asia, and Europe
  25. Weigela (Weigela spp.) – native to Asia

Nutritional properties of shrub

Here is a list of some common shrubs that produce edible berries or other parts, along with their nutritional properties and values per 100 grams of raw, edible portion:

Cranberry shrubs (Vaccinium spp.):

  • Calories: 46
  • Total fat: 0.1 g
  • Sodium: 1 mg
  • Total carbohydrate: 12 g
  • Dietary fiber: 4 g
  • Sugars: 4 g
  • Protein: 0.4 g
  • Vitamin C: 16 mg (27% DV)
  • Vitamin E: 1.4 mg (7% DV)

Olive shrubs (Olea europaea):

  • Calories: 160
  • Total fat: 18 g
  • Total carbohydrate: 4 g
  • Dietary fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Vitamin E: 6 mg (30% DV)

Blueberry shrubs (Vaccinium spp.):

  • Calories: 57
  • Total fat: 0.3 g
  • Sodium: 1 mg
  • Total carbohydrate: 14 g
  • Dietary fiber: 2 g
  • Sugars: 9 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Vitamin C: 24 mg (40% DV)

Raspberry shrubs (Rubus spp.):

  • Calories: 52
  • Total fat: 0.8 g
  • Sodium: 1 mg
  • Total carbohydrate: 12 g
  • Dietary fiber: 8 g
  • Sugars: 5 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Vitamin C: 32 mg (53% DV)

Elderberry shrubs (Sambucus spp.):

  • Calories: 63
  • Total fat: 0.5 g
  • Sodium: 4 mg
  • Total carbohydrate: 16 g
  • Dietary fiber: 3 g
  • Sugars: 12 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Vitamin C: 36 mg (60% DV)

Goji berry shrubs (Lycium spp.):

  • Calories: 70
  • Total fat: 0.6 g
  • Sodium: 2 mg
  • Total carbohydrate: 14 g
  • Dietary fiber: 3 g
  • Sugars: 9 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Vitamin C: 300 mg (500% DV)

Honeyberry shrubs (Lonicera spp.):

  • Calories: 63
  • Total fat: 0.5 g
  • Sodium: 1 mg
  • Total carbohydrate: 15 g
  • Dietary fiber: 4 g
  • Sugars: 10 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Vitamin C: 49 mg (82% DV)

Sea buckthorn shrubs (Hippophae spp.):

  • Calories: 46
  • Total fat: 0.5 g
  • Sodium: 1 mg
  • Total carbohydrate: 10 g
  • Dietary fiber: 3 g
  • Sugars: 7 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Vitamin C: 120 mg (200% DV)

Note: These values are for raw, edible portions of the shrubs and are based on average values from various sources. Nutritional content may vary slightly depending on the specific type and variety of shrub. The daily values (DV) are based on a 2,000 calorie per day diet.

It is important to note that these values are for the raw, edible portions of the shrubs and do not include any processed products made from these ingredients. The nutritional content of processed products may vary depending on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used.

Common Diseases on Shrub

Shrubs can be affected by a variety of diseases, including fungal, bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections. Some common diseases that can affect shrubs include:

  1. Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of shrubs. It can cause leaf distortion, yellowing, and premature leaf drop.
  2. Rust: This fungal disease appears as orange, yellow, or brown pustules on the leaves and stems of shrubs. It can cause leaf distortion, yellowing, and premature leaf drop.Common Diseases
  3. Leaf spot: This fungal or bacterial disease appears as small, dark spots on the leaves of shrubs. It can cause leaf yellowing, premature leaf drop, and defoliation.
  4. Blight: This fungal or bacterial disease affects the leaves, stems, and flowers of shrubs, causing them to wilt, blacken, and die.
  5. Root rot: This fungal disease affects the roots of shrubs, causing them to rot and die. It is often caused by over-watering or poor drainage in the soil.
  6. Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can cause damage to shrubs by feeding on the sap of the leaves and stems, causing distortion, yellowing, and premature leaf drop.
  7. Mites: These small, spider-like insects can cause damage to shrubs by feeding on the sap of the leaves, causing yellowing, bronzing, and premature leaf drop.
  8. Scale: These small, immobile insects can cause damage to shrubs by feeding on the sap of the leaves and stems, causing distortion, yellowing, and premature leaf drop.

To prevent or control diseases and pests on shrubs, it is important to follow good cultural practices, such as watering appropriately, fertilizing appropriately, pruning properly, and providing good drainage in the soil. Pesticides may also be used to control pests and diseases, but it is important to follow label instructions and take precautions to minimize any negative impact on the environment.

Guide: How to Plant Shrub

It is important to choose the right type of shrub for the specific location and purpose in the landscape, taking into consideration factors such as light, soil, moisture, and desired growth habit. Proper care and maintenance, including watering, mulching, pruning, and fertilizing, can help ensure the health and vigor of your shrubs. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to plant shrubs:

Choose the right shrub for your location: Consider factors such as the shrub’s mature size, growth habit, light and soil requirements, and hardiness in your area.

Guide How to Plant Shrub

Prepare the planting area: Remove any weeds, grass, or debris from the area where you will be planting the shrub. Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches and mix in compost or other organic matter to improve the soil structure and drainage.

Dig a hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the shrub and the same depth as the root ball. Make sure the hole is deep enough so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.

Place the shrub in the hole: Carefully remove the shrub from its container or wrapping and place it in the hole. Make sure the shrub is straight and positioned at the same depth as it was in the container or wrapping.

Backfill the hole: Fill the hole with soil, making sure to evenly distribute it around the root ball. Tamp down the soil gently to remove any air pockets.

Water the shrub: Water the shrub thoroughly to help settle the soil and remove any air pockets.

Mulch the shrub: Spread a layer of mulch around the base of the shrub to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Prune the shrub: Prune the shrub as needed to remove any damaged or diseased branches and to shape the shrub to your desired form.

Fertilize the shrub: Fertilize the shrub as needed, following the instructions on the fertilizer package or as recommended by a horticultural professional.

Conclusion

A shrub is a woody plant that is smaller than a tree and typically has multiple stems. Shrubs are a versatile and valuable component of any landscape, providing a wide range of benefits including ornamental value, habitat, and food for wildlife, erosion control, privacy, noise reduction, and carbon sequestration. With proper care and maintenance, shrubs can thrive and add beauty and functionality to your outdoor space.

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