Two shrub ids and a question

pitter-patter

These two shrubs should be easier to identify as they have a bit of leaf.

I’ve been transplanting an Amelanchier today in my new garden and it’s been quite a challenge. The tree was easy to dig out as it was quite young and probably newly planted. The challenge was with the soil. While digging the new hole my spade hit a thick layer of rubble. I’ve dug in some other parts of the garden and it’s the same. What can I do? Leave it or dig it up and order some topsoil? The soil on the top is about 30 cm or so and there’s a lot of rubble underneath that.

Thank you. 

Borderline

The first shrub is an Escallonia shrub. Not sure which one at this stage. Some can be strong growers suitable for hedging and others more compact. 

Second shrub looks like an Eder shrub to me, Sambucus Nigra ‘Black Lace’ of something similar. 

It all depends on what you want to grow. But if it’s shrubs and roses, might have to excavate deeper to get that rubble out. 

robairdmacraignil

Agree with the id's of escallonia and purple leaved elder.

I have some amelanchier plants growing in fairly shallow soil so they can do fine without very deep fertile ground. Mine are just starting to produce leaves now so don't let the roots dry out. I'd be inclined to plant away since you have already dug it up and think the roots should be able to grow down through the rubble. I have found mine not very fast growing anyway and have heard others describing them as being fairly hardy and adaptable. I have made a bit of an effort to give them a bit more mulching regularly to compensate for the soil where mine are planted being so stony.

pitter-patter

Thank you both. I’ve planted the Amelanchier already but I dug out a lot of rubble and added compost. Hopefully it will be fine. I might have to dig very deep and remove the rubble every time I plant something. ☹️