Top 5 Hardy Perennials Looking Good Now
As winter fades and early spring arrives, some hardy perennials stand out with their resilience and beauty. Whether you're looking for colour, fragrance, or structure, these five plants will ensure your garden looks its best even in the colder months.
1. Hellebores (Lenten Rose)
One of the earliest perennials to bloom, hellebores bring elegance to the garden with their nodding flowers in shades of white, pink, purple, and even green. They thrive in partial shade and are perfect for brightening up borders or woodland areas. Once established, they require little maintenance and will return year after year. We are proud to supply locally pollinated hellebores from Credale Nurseries, who are also our Japanese maple grower and featured on Gardeners' World a few years ago. They’re only a few miles away, and we love sourcing our plants as locally as possible to support great growers close to home!
2. Sarcococca (Sweet Box)
This evergreen shrub may be compact, but it packs a punch with its highly fragrant, creamy-white flowers in late winter. The scent is particularly strong on mild days, making it a fantastic addition near pathways, entrances, or even just outside the garden centre where you can smell it as you arrive. With its glossy green leaves and tolerance for shade, sarcococca is an easy, low-maintenance choice for winter interest.
3. Camellia
Camellias are a true showstopper in late winter and early spring, producing stunning blooms in shades of pink, red, and white. They thrive in slightly acidic soil and prefer a sheltered spot to protect their delicate flowers from frost damage. With glossy evergreen foliage, they provide year-round interest even when not in bloom.
4. Witch Hazel (Hamamelis)
A striking shrub with spidery, fragrant flowers in yellow, orange, or red, witch hazel adds a touch of magic to winter gardens. Blooming on bare branches, it stands out beautifully against a frosty backdrop. It prefers well-drained soil and a sunny or partially shaded position, making it a versatile addition to any garden.
5. Euphorbia
For structural impact and vibrant colour, euphorbia is a must-have. Its lime-green flowers emerge in late winter, contrasting against its dark green or blue-toned foliage. Many varieties are evergreen, adding texture and interest throughout the year. Euphorbia thrives in well-drained soil and is highly drought-tolerant once established.
Bringing Colour to the Late Winter Garden
These five hardy perennials prove that gardens don’t have to be dull in winter. By incorporating plants that flower early or offer year-round interest, you can enjoy a beautiful and thriving outdoor space, even before spring fully arrives. If you're looking for plants that look great in February, feel free to ask a member of our horticultural team for help!
Which of these favourites do you have in your garden?