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Fernbush

Chamaebatiaria millefolium

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Fernbush with long stems and white flowers

Discover More Information On Fernbush

Do you have a low-water garden in need of a native shrub? The Fernbush (Chamaebatiaria millefolium) makes an exceptional addition to these landscapes. There are so many great attributes of this shrub, such as its beauty and versatility. When it is in bloom, this hardy plant will be a true showstopper. If you are ready to bring home this magnificent shrub, make sure to reach out to Arbor Valley Nursery.

Plant Attributes

The Fernbush is also known as the Desert Sweet. This tidy-growing plant has a soft-rounded shape. The densely branched shrub features a profusion of small white flowers. When the Chamaebatiaria millefolium is blooming, many people call it a “summer lilac.” You will see white flower spikes on the plant during the mid-summer. This shrub is a great choice to brighten up your yard after those other shrubs and trees have finished blooming for the season.

Due to the nectar of the flowers, bees and butterflies love to sip on the blossoms. Unlike other plants that seem to go dormant after blooming, the flowers of the Fernbush dazzle you with attractive bronze seedheads. Those seedheads last throughout the winter. Along with the winter display, hungry birds feast on the seeds during the colder months.

The leaves of the Chamaebatiaria millefolium should never be overlooked. Its foliage is highly ornamental with a deep olive-green color. The twice-pinnately compound foliage resembles fern fronds, and it is lovely in any setting. When the foliage is pressed, it has a smoky, herbal aroma. In those mild to moderate winter climates, the foliage is semi-evergreen.

Landscape Use

Since the Fernbush is a native plant, you should mix it with other native species. In the Chamaebatiaria millefolium’s native habitat, these shrubs grow alongside cacti and tall grasses. If you want to create a more natural look, add a few of those plants to your landscape.

Like most native shrubs, the Fernbush tolerates low-water conditions. Consider adding the Fernbush as a hedge border in those drier spaces throughout your garden. Since it is a low-maintenance shrub, you don’t have to worry about constant care. The fine-textured foliage makes the perfect contrast against those coarser plants. When combined with ornamental grasses, the Chamaebatiaria millefolium truly stands out in your yard.

The Fernbush is the ideal choice for those sunny borders. For an added touch of elegance, make sure to mix this shrub with other drought-tolerant grasses and perennials. This Chamaebatiaria millefolium is ideal as an accent piece in your outdoor space. You might even want to use it as a specimen planting. Wherever you want to place this Fernbush in your landscape, it is an exceptional addition to any outdoor space.

Planting & Care

The Fernbush loves the sun, and it thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 7. This shrub can be easily grown in moderate to xeric soil. However, you will want to plant them in well-draining spaces. You can even add the Chamaebatiaria millefolium to sandy loam, clay, and gravelly soils. While the Fernbush is drought tolerant, it is recommended that you provide periodic deep watering during those hot, dry spells. With a little watering, you can help maintain the density of the foliage.

This Fernbush is a low-maintenance shrub, but you may want to give it a little prune. If you’re going to encourage bushier growth, make sure to prune moderately in the early winter. The Chamaebatiaria millefolium is also pest-resistant. It can even keep away those hungry deer from munching on your landscape.

Additional Information

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Fernbush

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Known for its flower clusters and lacy foliage, the Fernbush makes a great addition to your landscape. The small white flowers appear from mid-summer to fall. As the shrub blooms, you will notice plenty of bee and butterfly visitors. The Chamaebatiaria millefolium is the perfect choice for your xeriscapes and native gardens.

Need to Find a Wholesale Nursery Near Me?
Arbor Valley Nursery can help you incorporate the Fernbush into your next landscaping project. Our shrub nursery offers an extensive range of products, including trees, flowers, and plants. Our team can help you choose the right item for your job. If you want to add the Fernbush to your inventory, make sure to fill out the contact form.

Plant Features

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Watering Needs: Low
  • Botanical Pronunciation: kam-ay-bay-tee-AY-ree-uh mill-ee-FOH-lee-um
  • Deciduous/evergreen: Semi-evergreen
  • Growth rate: Medium
  • Average landscape size: 3.5 to 5 feet in width and height
  • Special features: Creamy white flowers, foliage produces a fragrant aroma
  • Foliage color: Olive green
  • Blooms: July to August
  • Flower color: White
  • Flower attributes: Rose-like white flowers with yellow centers
  • Garden style: Xeriscapes, native gardens
  • Design Ideas: For those native gardens, this is an exceptional option. Perfect shrub for any low-moisture spaces. Use the Fernbush as a foundation or accent plant.
  • Companion Plants: Blue Mist spirea, Russian sage, Butterfly bush, Three-Leaf sumac, and Pawnee Buttes sandcherry
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