While searching for colorful evergreen shrubs to enhance my landscape, I discovered two exceptional options at The Flower Bed Nursery in Lumberton, Mississippi: Juliet Cleyera and Miss Lemon Abelia.

Juliet Cleyera is a striking evergreen shrub known for its dynamic, multi-colored foliage.

New leaves emerge in radiant shades of bronze or deep red, gradually transitioning to glossy green with elegant, cream-colored edges. This continuous color transformation creates a stunning, year-round display that adds depth and interest to gardens.

Growing 6-8 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide, this compact shrub thrives in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 7-10 and prefers full sun to partial shade. While it tolerates more sun in cooler climates, it benefits from afternoon shade in hotter regions.

Juliet Cleyera grows best in moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Adding organic matter such as compost at planting time improves soil quality.

For care, regular watering is essential during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, the plant is drought-tolerant but appreciates occasional deep watering during dry periods.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release formula designed for shrubs to support healthy growth and colorful foliage. This variety requires minimal pruning but benefits from shaping or removing damaged branches in late winter or early spring.

A 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around the base helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature and suppress weeds, but be sure to keep mulch away from the trunk.

Miss Lemon Abelia is another exceptional evergreen shrub that adds color and texture to the landscape. Its standout feature is variegated foliage, with bright yellow margins surrounding rich green centers to create a luminous effect year-round. During summer and fall, its delicate clusters of fragrant, pale pink or white trumpet-shaped flowers attract pollinators.

Compact and tidy, Miss Lemon Abelia grows 3-4 feet tall and wide, making it ideal for small gardens, containers or low hedges. It is hardy in USDA zones 6-9. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, with the best variegation and flowering occurring in sunny locations.

It adapts well to various well-drained soils but prefers slightly acidic conditions.

To care for Miss Lemon Abelia, water regularly during the first year to establish roots. Once mature, it is moderately drought tolerant. Like most plants, it benefits from supplemental watering during prolonged dry spells.

Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer to promote lush foliage and blooms. Mulch around the base helps conserve moisture and reduce weed competition.

Prune lightly after the blooming season to maintain its naturally rounded shape and remove spent flowers or damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning, which can delay flowering.

This plant is relatively pest-free, although occasional aphids or leaf spots may require attention. It also shows good resistance to deer.

With their vivid evergreen foliage and multi-season interest, both Juliet Cleyera and Miss Lemon Abelia are standout additions to the landscape. Their low-maintenance nature and ability to thrive in diverse conditions make them excellent choices for gardeners seeking lasting beauty and structure.