Deer Resistant Shrubbery

If deer are damaging your shrubs, it may be time to consider deer-resistant varieties. Fortunately, you have a wide range of shrubs to choose from, including numerous deciduous and evergreen shrubs.

Deer Resistance

• Deer avoid plants with certain characteristics. According to North Carolina State University, deer rarely eat shrubs that have thorns, spiky leaves and stems, furry leaves and unpleasant tastes or odors. They also avoid plants that are poisonous or produce thick, latex-like sap. But during times of drought or starvation, deer will eat even the most unpalatable vegetation.

Deciduous Shrubs

• Deciduous shrubs are those that shed their leaves in the fall, many of which are seldom eaten by deer. Japanese barberry, butterfly bush and blue mist shrub are generally deer-resistant, as are American beautyberry and winter jasmine.

Evergreen Shrubs

• Many evergreen shrubs are deer-resistant. These include plum yew, Chinese juniper and oleander, as well as wax myrtle, rosemary and yucca. In addition, most small pine trees and shrubs are not favored by deer.

Conditions

• Different shrubs grow best under different conditions, so consult a hardiness zone map before you do any planting. Also, talk to a local expert who can help you find a deer-resistant shrub that is well-suited to the soil type, moisture levels and sunlight exposure of your backyard.