Flowers That Can Survive the Winter

By Alexa Fuentes

Did you develop a green thumb a season too late? There is no need to wait until next spring and summer to see your plants come to life in the garden. There are plenty of plants that can survive in the colder climates and even bloom before the springtime. Here are five plants that will bring vibrant colors to your winter garden.

Hellebores

Hellebores, scientific name Helleborus, is in the Ranunculaceae family. According to Almanac.com, two common varieties of the Hellebores are the Christmas Rose, white-flowered, and the Lenten Rose, pinkishpurple flowered. Both varieties are planted in the Fall, but the Christmas Rose can bloom in December (around Christmas time), while the Lenten Rose usually blooms around early March (around the season of Lent). Hellebores enjoy the shade and moist but drained soil.

Winter Aconite

Also part of the Ranunculaceae family, the Winter Aconite has small yellow flowers that grow low to the ground. Usually planted in the fall,

Winter Aconite is one of the first flowers to bloom in early spring. According to Wisconsin Horticulture at UW Madison, if it likes its climate, the plant can quickly reproduce and spread and almost be considered invasive. Winter Aconite is also poisonous, so please keep small children away, as ingesting the plant can cause several health issues.

Crocuses

All Crocuses flourish under a cold climate, but the Snow Crocuses, also known as Crocus chrysanthus, is known for its earlier bloom. The Snow Crocus comes in various colors, including white, purple and yellow. According to Gardenia.net, the Snow Crocus blooms during the first of the year - late winter or early spring - and though they are native to southeastern Europe, they do not usually spread aggressively enough to be considered invasive.

Mahonia

Mahonia is part of the Berberidaceae family and is a reasonably low-maintenance shrub. Native to North America, the Mahonia’s flowers are a golden yellow with a strong fragrance. These flowers bloom in late winter and early spring. Mahonias are slow to grow but require little pruning - usually once a year in the springtime.

Daphne Shrub

The Daphne Shrub is an early bloomer with fragrant pink, white or purple flowers. Luckily for Floridians, Daphne Shrubs thrive in warmer climates. Unfortunately, these shrubs and berries are toxic to humans and animals. If you do choose to grow this plant, make sure to keep any kids or pets away. It is a slow-growing plant; according to Spruce.com, it can take up to 10 years for the shrub to reach its mature size. A variety of Daphne - Daphne laureola - is considered an invasive species.

It’s important to start planning your winter garden in the Fall. These buds must be planted before the winter to ensure an early bloom. So, prepare to be in the garden this November with a shovel and gloves. Happy gardening!

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