However, there are a number of little known shrubs that are wonderful additions to the home landscape. Though they are not widely planted and may be somewhat difficult to find, the following shrubs are excellent plants for new and existing home landscapes. White forsythia, also known as Korean abelialeaf, blooms in early spring. The white, four-petaled, fragrant flowers are borne in small clusters on arching stems. The shrub is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 4b to 7.
White forsythia is easy to grow.
It performs best in well-drained soils and full sun. White forsythia is free of serious insect and disease problems. Because it often possesses a straggly growth habit, Korean abelialeaf benefits from regular pruning immediately after blooming. Its most striking ornamental feature is the pure white flowers which appear in early to mid-May. Northern Pearl,' introduced by the University of Minnesota, is a compact cultivar that reaches a height of only 6 to 8 feet.