The winter months can be cold and dreary with grass in its dormant state and trees that are without their leaves. There are great ways to spruce up the exterior of your home in the winter months. When selecting plants to plant or display this winter, you need to make sure you choose plants that are hardy enough to withstand cold temperatures while still adding beauty to your home. Some plants not only survive the winter but also offer color and texture. As an award-winning Wichita homebuilder, here are a few great options Paul Gray Homes recommends you consider when landscaping your home this winter.
Evergreens (for structure and year-round greenery
– Boxwood: Great for hedges or topiaries, boxwood retains its green foliage all year.
– Holly: The shiny green leaves and bright red berries add color and interest.
– Juniper: Comes in various sizes and shapes, offering blue or green foliage.
– Spruce or Pine: Dwarf varieties of spruce or pine are perfect for container planting and bring a festive look.
Winter-Flowering Plants
– Hellebores (Christmas Rose): These perennials bloom in late winter with white, pink, or purple flowers.
– Winter Jasmine: Produces bright yellow flowers in late winter.
– Witch Hazel: This small tree blooms in late winter with spidery, fragrant yellow or red flowers.
– Camellia: Certain varieties bloom in winter and early spring, with striking rose-like flowers.
Ornamental Grasses
– Miscanthus: The tall, feathery plumes of Miscanthus grasses can add texture and movement to a winter garden.
– Pennisetum (Fountain Grass): Adds soft, flowing shapes that last through the winter months.
Deciduous Shrubs with Colorful Bark or Stems
– Red-Twig Dogwood: Its red stems are striking against snow or other winter backdrops.
– Coral Bark Japanese Maple: Has brilliant coral-red bark that intensifies in the winter.
– Birch Trees: The pale bark of birch trees stands out beautifully during the winter.
Perennials with Evergreen Foliage
– Heuchera (Coral Bells): Offers colorful evergreen leaves in shades of burgundy, silver, and green.
– Bergenia: Thick, glossy leaves turn a rich purple during winter, offering visual interest.
Ivy and Other Climbers
– English Ivy: This evergreen climber can be grown on walls or trellises, providing greenery year-round.
– Euonymus: Varieties like ‘Emerald Gaiety’ are evergreen with attractive variegated leaves.
Winter Annuals (for seasonal color)
– Pansies: Hardy pansies can bloom well into winter in milder climates, adding pops of color.
– Violas: Similar to pansies, they are cold-hardy and flower in cool temperatures.
Indoor Winter Plants
If you’re looking for indoor plants that thrive in winter, try:
– Cyclamen: With its vibrant flowers and heart-shaped leaves, it’s a perfect winter houseplant.
– Christmas Cactus: It blooms around the holiday season with pink, red, or white flowers.
– Amaryllis: Popular for its large, striking blooms during the winter.
These plants can offer a mix of greenery, flowers, and vibrant textures to keep your home and garden beautiful throughout the colder months! As always, Paul Gray Homes recommends contacting your local nursery for the what plants will thrive in your climate. If you are interested in getting started building the custom home of your dreams, contact us today!