Aucuba

• This yellow and green variegated shrub is an evergreen, so it will look good year-round. It grows up to 4 feet tall. Aucuba can tolerate heavy shade, so it is perfect for areas that receive little direct light, such as covered porches, shady patios or for gardeners in cities where tall buildings block sunlight. Having a high tolerance for pollution also makes it an ideal candidate for city gardens. Aucuba can be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 7 through 10, but should be brought indoors over the winter in colder climates.
  
  

Deutzia

• If you are looking for an elegant shrub with exquisite blooms, consider Deutzia. Native to Japan, Deutzia is a deciduous shrub that sports small, white, bell-shaped flowers all summer. Most varieties grow 2 to 4 feet in height. Deutzia is suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 10. It prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade, and is fairly low maintenance since it thrives in most types of soil and is resistant to most pests and diseases.
  
  

Hebe

• Perfect for small porches, steps and window boxes.veronica image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com
  
  A compact potted shrub, Hebe, or "Shrubby Veronica," grows to about 12 inches in height and forms a neat little mound. Some varieties of this evergreen bloom spikes of flowers in pink, white, purple or blue from spring through the fall season. It is hardy and fairly drought-tolerant, preferring full to partial shade. Most varieties can tolerate some frost, but need protection in winter.
  
  

Pieris

• Pieris can add spectacular splashes of color to any shady corner.pieris variety carnival (close up of foliage) image by Shirley Hirst from Fotolia.com
  
  Also known as Japanese Andromeda, Pieris is an exotic-looking shrub that really catches attention. The plant features long sprays of blooms in white, pink or red. Young foliage is blush red and darkens to green as it ages. Pieris shrubs can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 7, and will grow in sun or shade. They prefer well-drained soil and can tolerate droughts.
  
  

Wisteria

• Wisteria flowers are highly attractive to bees and butterflies.¨¨---¡è image by r183 from Fotolia.com
  
  A member of the pea family, Wisteria can be grown in large tubs. These plants are climbing shrubs that require support and reach heights of over 12 feet. They look spectacular climbing a pergola, trellis, fence or tree. Regular pruning and training is necessary, particularly when growing them in containers to keep the plant compact. The beautiful purple blooms emit an enticing aroma that will perfume your entire yard. Wisteria is adaptable to most climates, though it prefers soil slightly on the acidic side.