5 Best Shrubs For Birds: Buyer’s Guide

Peter Armani | 22-01-2026

Creating a bird-friendly garden starts with the right selection of shrubs and plants. Shrubs provide essential shelter, nesting spots, and natural food sources for a variety of bird species. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply want to add more life to your outdoor space, choosing the right shrubs can make a noticeable difference. Below, you’ll find practical resources and options to help you support local birds in your yard.

Editor's Choice
Trees, Shrubs, and Vines for Attracting Birds
Trees, Shrubs, and Vines for Attracting Birds
Premium Pick
Flowering Trees and Shrubs: An Illustrated Directory of Species and How to Grow Them Successfully
Flowering Trees and Shrubs: An Illustrated Directory of Species and How to Grow Them Successfully
Budget Pick
A Peterson Field Guide To Trees And Shrubs: Northeastern and North-Central United States
A Peterson Field Guide To Trees And Shrubs: Northeastern and North-Central United States

Top 5 Shrubs For Birds

We researched and compared the top products in the Shrubs For Birds category to provide you with these recommendations.

1. Trees, Shrubs, and Vines for Attracting Birds

Bird Garden Guide
Trees, Shrubs, and Vines for Attracting Birds

This book offers a comprehensive look at various trees, shrubs, and vines that can enhance your garden for birds. The content is approachable for both beginners and experienced gardeners, with practical advice for creating a welcoming habitat. The pages have a smooth, easy-to-flip feel, making it simple to reference while planning or working outside.

What We Like:

  • Covers a wide range of plant types
  • Clear, practical advice for gardeners
  • Useful for planning bird habitats
  • Easy to reference and understand

What Could Be Improved:

  • Limited to North American species
  • Fewer photos than some guides

2. Flowering Trees and Shrubs: An Illustrated Directory of Species and How to Grow Them Successfully

Visual Plant Directory
Flowering Trees and Shrubs: An Illustrated Directory of Species and How to Grow Them Successfully

This illustrated directory provides detailed information on a variety of flowering trees and shrubs, including their growth habits and care tips. The book feels sturdy and is packed with colorful images, making it enjoyable to browse for inspiration. It's designed for gardeners who appreciate visual references and want to learn about plant care in a straightforward way.

What We Like:

  • Richly illustrated with photographs
  • Step-by-step growing advice
  • Covers a broad range of species
  • Helpful for planning diverse gardens

What Could Be Improved:

  • Some species may not be bird-attracting
  • Information can be dense for beginners

3. A Peterson Field Guide To Trees And Shrubs: Northeastern and North-Central United States

Field Guide Reference
A Peterson Field Guide To Trees And Shrubs: Northeastern and North-Central United States
9.1

Mariner

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This field guide is compact and easy to carry, making it ideal for outdoor identification of trees and shrubs. The pages are filled with detailed descriptions and illustrations, suited for both casual and serious bird gardeners. It's especially practical for those who want to identify local plants while exploring or planning their landscape.

What We Like:

  • Portable and durable format
  • Detailed plant identification tips
  • Focused on specific U.S. regions
  • Useful for on-the-go reference

What Could Be Improved:

  • Regional focus may limit broader use
  • Illustrations over photographs

4. Blue Bird Hibiscus - Althea - Rose of Sharon - Live Plant - Quart Pot

Live Bird-Friendly Shrub
Blue Bird Hibiscus - Althea - Rose of Sharon - Live Plant - Quart Pot
8.9

New Life Nursery & Garden

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This live plant arrives in a quart pot, ready to be added to your garden. Its upright, multi-stemmed form and showy violet-blue blossoms can add color and structure to your landscape. The plant is typically used as a hedge, specimen, or foundation shrub, offering seasonal interest and potential shelter for birds.

What We Like:

  • Attractive blooms for visual appeal
  • Can provide shelter for birds
  • Versatile for different garden uses
  • Suitable for various climates

What Could Be Improved:

  • May ship dormant depending on season
  • Flowering not guaranteed at delivery

5. ARTAWEIN Flowering Shrubs Bird House Nesting Box

Decorative Bird Shelter
ARTAWEIN Flowering Shrubs Bird House Nesting Box
8.7

Artawein

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This decorative bird house is crafted from solid pine wood and features a colorful, flower-inspired design. It's intended to hang easily in gardens or on trees, providing a potential nesting spot for small birds. The weatherproof construction and openable door make it practical for outdoor use and easy to clean.

What We Like:

  • Eye-catching, garden-friendly design
  • Weather-resistant materials
  • Easy to hang and maintain
  • Suitable for small bird species

What Could Be Improved:

  • Primarily decorative, not a live shrub
  • May not attract all bird types

How to Choose Shrubs and Resources for Attracting Birds

Habitat and Shelter Needs

Birds rely on shrubs for nesting, roosting, and safety. Choose a mix of plant heights and types to create a diverse environment that appeals to different bird species.

Food Sources and Bloom Times

Select shrubs that offer natural food throughout the seasons. Mixing berry-producing and flowering varieties helps sustain birds year-round.

Regional Suitability

Plants suited to your region are more likely to thrive and benefit local birds. Always verify a shrub's adaptability before planting.

Maintenance and Growth Habits

Think about how much time you want to spend on upkeep. Choose shrubs that fit your available space and maintenance preferences.

Reference Materials and Guides

Having reliable references can simplify the process of choosing and caring for bird-attracting shrubs. Look for guides that match your region and experience level.

FAQ For Shrubs For Birds

1. What types of shrubs attract the most birds?

Shrubs that produce berries, seeds, or dense foliage are especially attractive to birds. Native species often provide the best food and shelter for local bird populations.

2. How can I create a bird-friendly garden with shrubs?

Plant a variety of shrubs with different heights and bloom times. Include both evergreen and deciduous types to offer year-round shelter and food sources.

3. Do I need to use native shrubs to attract birds?

Native shrubs are generally more beneficial for local birds, as they provide familiar food and habitat. However, some non-native species can also support birds if they offer suitable resources.

4. How do I maintain shrubs to keep them bird-friendly?

Limit heavy pruning during nesting season and avoid using pesticides. Allow some natural growth to provide cover and leave spent flowers or berries for food.

5. Can reference books help me choose the right shrubs?

Yes, guides and directories offer valuable information on plant selection, care, and suitability for attracting birds in your region.
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Peter Armani

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