Shrubs that look good in November

Euphorbia x pasteurii

Euphorbia x pasteurii is a hybrid of Euphorbia mellifera and Euphorbia stygiana. The leaves are evergreen, but will become tinged with red in autumn. Honey-scented summer flowers are an added bonus.

Viburnum x bodnantense

The richly perfumed flowers of Viburnum x bodnantense will be making their first appearance in November, just as the intensely-coloured autumn leaves are falling. Grow near an entrance, path or seating area to fully appreciate it.

Cotinus coggygria

Cotinus coggygria performs best in a warm spot in full sun. Purple-leaved varieties transition to scarlet in autumn, while varieties with green leaves turn orange-red. If you don't mind losing the fluffy flowers, hard prune established plants in late spring for the best foliage.

Enkianthus cernuus f. rubens

Enkianthus cernuus f. rubens produces clusters of deep red, bell-shaped flowers in spring and purple-red foliage and dark berries in autumn. Enkianthus prefer soil that is on the acid side.

Enkianthus perulatus

This compact shrub produces pretty bell-shaped flowers, similar to those of Pieris. In autumn, the leaves turn a spectacular shade of red. Grows best in a sheltered spot, in damp, humus-rich soil that is neutral to acidic.

Camellia

Most camellias flower in spring, but Camellia x williamsii and Camellia sasanqua cultivars, such as 'Crimson King' (shown here) bloom in November, providing welcome colour.

Viburnum tinus

Viburnum tinus has a generously long flowering period, usually from December to April, though it will often begin flowering earlier. A great shrub for shade where the evergreen leaves will provide year round interest. Viburnum x bodnantense is a lovely alternative.