- Spirea (Spiraea spp.)
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- Hardiness: Zones 4-8
- Description: This deciduous shrub produces masses of pink, white, or red flowers in spring or summer. It’s easy to grow, heat-tolerant, and does well in full sun.
- American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)
- Hardiness: Zones 6-10
- Description: Known for its striking clusters of purple berries in the fall, this deciduous shrub is also heat and drought-tolerant, thriving in full sun to partial shade.
- Aronia (Aronia melanocarpa)
- Hardiness: Zones 3-8
- Description: A deciduous shrub with white flowers in spring, followed by black or red berries. It’s very adaptable, tolerating heat, drought, and a wide range of soils.
- Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)
- Hardiness: Zones 3-8
- Description: This deciduous shrub is noted for its fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in late fall or winter. It’s heat-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
- Redtwig Dogwood (Cornus sericea)
- Hardiness: Zones 2-7
- Description: Valued for its bright red stems that add winter interest, this deciduous shrub also produces white flowers in spring. It’s heat-tolerant and prefers moist but well-drained soil.
- Viburnum (Viburnum spp.)
- Hardiness: Zones 3-9
- Description: This versatile deciduous shrub features clusters of white flowers, followed by red or black berries. It’s tough, heat-tolerant, and adaptable to different soils.
- Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)
- Hardiness: Zones 2-7
- Description: This deciduous shrub is known for its peeling bark, colorful foliage, and clusters of white or pink flowers. It’s heat-tolerant and thrives in a range of conditions.
- Boxwood (Buxus spp.)
- Hardiness: Zones 5-8
- Description: A classic evergreen shrub with dense, small leaves, ideal for hedges or formal gardens. It’s heat-tolerant, easy to shape, and adaptable to various soils.
- Winterberry (Ilex verticillata)
- Hardiness: Zones 3-9
- Description: This deciduous holly produces bright red berries in winter, providing stunning color in cold months. It’s heat-tolerant and does well in moist but well-drained soil.
These shrubs not only survive but thrive in hot conditions while also being hardy to at least Zone 7, making them excellent choices for gardens with challenging climates.
