Living in Central California we have the benefit of milder winters. It doesn’t often freeze in our zone, and without freezes we can have pretty foliage and winter flowers all year long. There are numerous plants to choose from, and you can choose depending on your needs. Some serve multiple purposes and are great additions to small gardens.

Calendula

Are you looking for a winter flower that pulls double duty? The calendula is a hardy plant that can be grown almost year-round. They are frost tolerant and prefer cooler temperatures. Calendulas are also known for their healing properties. These cheery blooms are also edible and can be sprinkled on salads.

Nasturtium

Another deliciously edible flower that can be used various ways in dishes, Nasturtiums come in a variety of colors. You also have some flexibility with how you grow them. Some grow in a bush-like way, others grow vertically, and some can become ground cover.

Winter Jasmine

Winter Jasmine is a deciduous perennial, and they are one of the earliest plants to flower. This plant is relatively trouble free and easy to grow.

Pansies

Are you looking for more edible flowers? These edible beauties will jazz up your winter baskets and look beautiful sprinkled over salads. Pansies are shorties and are great at adding a pop of color around the border of your garden.

Camellias

This long blooming, beautiful perennial comes in a variety of colors and loves our climate. You can find blooms from white to pink to red and they would prefer to be somewhere in the shade protected from the wind.

Holly Bushes

There are a variety of holly bushes to choose from. They are an evergreen plant that will add a splash of holiday pizzazz to your winter garden due to their red berries.

Snapdragons

Snapdragons are a great way to add visual interest to your garden with their spire-like shape. They add beautiful color to your landscape and look gorgeous cut on your dining room table.

Stock

If you’re looking for another plant to add visual interest to your garden as well as smell amazing, you’re looking for Stock. This gorgeous plant comes in either column or spray and will self sow.

Japanese Ornamental Quince

If you’re looking for a woody shrub with cup shaped flowers, this is your guy. He can be a bit invasive so you might consider setting some boundaries by placing him in a large planter. The sweet-smelling flowers will attract birds, bees, and butterflies. Another bonus is you can use the fruit to make jams and jellies.

Winter gardens create a colorful and fun way to brighten up winter, and provide the added benefits needed for pollinators and other beneficial bugs. You can find many of these hardy varieties at our Nursery. We are always happy to help offer you tips and advice for growing the prettiest winter garden on the street.