Share
Search: Winter Interest Plants
Share me!
 
 
I'm a weather wimp. My optimal operating temperature ranges from 58 to 78 degrees. But alas, I live in western Oregon and while we're spared the bitter cold common in many areas of the country, we do get quite cool in the winter and we can get some pretty steady winds. However, admiring winter gardens is something I adore—bundled against the cold or better yet, from the cozy comfort of my studio. So when I choose plants for myself or for clients, I take care to include plants that look good in the quiet season.

And when you are deciding where to plant these winter stars, consider whether you can easily see them from indoors, and place them where you can appreciate them from a toasty warm vantage point.
 
SHOWY STEMS AND BARK
I'm a sucker for plants with colorful stems or gorgeous bark, such as the Lagerstroemia 'Zuni' from my own garden that's featured in today's lead photo. Deciduous trees and shrubs with smooth and sexy bark  make for a pleasing combination.
Cornus 'Hedgerow's Gold'
Cornus 'Hedgerow's Gold'
SHRUB DOGWOOD

A deciduous shrub with all-season appeal—in winter, red stems are the attraction, but from spring to fall, golden variegated foliage carries the weight.
Stewartia monadelpha
Stewartia monadelpha
TALL STEWARTIA

This slow-growing tree is worth the wait. Coveted for its smooth bark, summertime blooms, and fantastic fall color.

SEARCH: Trees with Attractive Bark and Stems
 
ATTRACTS WILDLIFE
Plants with decorative berries or blooms add life to the garden as a source of winter food for wildlife. Plus, the birds are fun to watch as they dart about, foraging on the nectar and berries.
Aronia arbutifolia
Aronia arbutifolia
RED CHOKEBERRY

In late spring, its white blooms are pretty enough, and this easy-to-grow shrub is valued for its hardy constitution. But the real reason to grow this shrub is this wintertime show.
Callicarpa bodinieri var. giraldii ‘Profusion’
Callicarpa bodinieri 'Profusion'
BEAUTYBERRY

Showy purple berries, held on bare stems well into winter, are a delightful surprise and always draw appreciative comments from non-gardening friends.
Mahonia Charity'
Mahonia 'Charity'
HYBRID MAHONIA

Hummingbirds are drawn to the cheery yellow blooms set against handsome blue-green foliage.
 
COLORFUL FOLIAGE
Evergreen conifers and shrubs with colorful foliage are an excellent way to add winter interest and steady structure.
Lonicera nitida 'Briloni'
Lonicera nitida 'Briloni'
EDMEE GOLD™ BOXLEAF HONEYSUCKLE

Sunny gold foliage is a wonderful way to bring light to a winter's day.

SEARCH: Evergreens with Gold Foliage
BLOG: Gold Foliage Brightens a Gray Day
Hebe 'Western Hills'
Hebe 'Western Hills'
HEBE

The light-reflecting qualities of blue, gray and silver foliage are especially welcome in winter.
SEARCH: Evergreens with Blue/Silver/Gray Foliage
Rhamnus alaternus 'Argentovariegata'
Rhamnus a.'Argentovariegata'
VARIEGATED ITALIAN BUCKTHORN

Evergreen foliage edged in white or golden yellow add sparkle.

SEARCH: Evergreens with Variegated Foliage
 
Grab a cuppa and stay cozy,
We're social and I'll bet you are too—let's connect!
 
 
 
 
eGardenGo Home
 
eGardenGo LLC, P. O. Box 13682, Portland, OR 97213, United States


Email Marketing by ActiveCampaign