Armstrong Garden Centers Conebush
Best low-maintenance shrub for water-wise gardeners seeking year-round dramatic color.
This evergreen is a masterclass in contrast, pairing moody, near-black foliage with vibrant chartreuse new growth and architectural blooms. It’s a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant workhorse for water-wise gardens, though you’ll need to commit to its bold, upright habit if you want it to anchor your landscape.
$79.99
at
Armstrong Garden Centers (Shop)
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking high-contrast, architectural foliage year-round
- Eco-conscious homeowners designing water-wise, low-maintenance landscapes
- Floral designers wanting unique, long-lasting stems for arrangements
Who should skip it
- Gardeners preferring simple, universal fertilizer routines
- Homeowners dealing with heavy clay or poorly draining soil
- Gardeners living in regions with frequent hard freezes
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
Striking purple-black foliage provides dramatic contrast in any garden setting.
Drought Tolerance
Thrives in water-wise landscapes with minimal supplemental irrigation required.
Maintenance Ease
Low-care requirements make this an ideal choice for busy gardeners.
Deer Resistance
Reliably deters local wildlife from grazing on your ornamental plantings.
Seasonal Versatility
Evergreen structure ensures year-round interest beyond the spring bloom cycle.
Arrangement Utility
Unique bracts and foliage offer excellent texture for indoor floral displays.
Key Specs
Mature Height
4 feet
Mature Width
5 feet
Light Needs
Full Sun
Bloom Time
Late Winter to Late Spring
Foliage Color
Black, Purple-variegated dark gray, Red (in fall)
Growth Rate
Medium
Hardiness Zone
8b
Evergreen
Watering Needs
Low
Soil Type
Poor, Alkaline, Very well-drained
Know before you buy
Still have a question?
Ask Metto anything about the Armstrong Garden Centers Conebush before you decide.