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Colourful winter bloomers

As winter makes its entrance, it doesn't signify the end of blooming splendour in your garden. Winter bloomers are the heroes of the cold season, bringing a touch of colour and life to the wintry environment. In this blog, you'll learn more about five winter bloomers that will make your garden shine, even in the coldest months.

What Are Winter Bloomers?

Winter bloomers are plants that, unlike most others, produce flowers during the cold winter months. Adapted to low temperatures and short days, they inject a splash of colour and vitality into gardens and landscapes when the natural surroundings often seem a bit sombre. Winter bloomers include various types of plants, such as shrubs, trees, perennials, and flowering bushes. They are a welcome addition to the garden, offering a beautiful spectacle of colour and form just when most other plants are at rest.

1. Japanese Camellia (Camellia japonica)

Camellia japonicaThe Japanese Camellia is an elegant winter bloomer with large, lush flowers ranging from soft pink to deep red. The glossy green leaves create a beautiful contrast with the flowers, providing a striking visual effect. Plant this beauty in a sheltered spot with partial shade for an enchanting winter bloom.

2. Mahonia (Mahonia x media 'Winter Sun')

Mahonia x media 'Winter Sun'Mahonia is an evergreen shrub with fragrant yellow flowers that brighten up the winter. This winter bloomer not only adds colour to your garden but also attracts bees with its delightful scent. Plant Mahonia in a sunny to partial shade location and enjoy its beautiful bloom throughout the cold months.

3. Winter-flowering Viburnum (Viburnum bodnantense 'Dawn')

Viburnum bodnantense 'Dawn'

​​​​​​The winter-flowering Viburnum is a jewel in the garden during the winter months. With its fragrant pink flowers, this shrub brings a touch of romance and colour to the cold winter air. Plant it in a sunny to lightly shaded spot and enjoy the enchanting bloom.

4. Daphne bholoa 'Jacqueline Postile'

Daphne bholoa 'Jacqueline Postile' - Image by Magnus Manske (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Perhaps the most beautifully scented plant you can have flowering in winter. These sweetly fragranced pink flowers open up through January and February when little else provides colour in the garden. Best planted near an entrance or regularly used pathway for their scent to be appreciated.

5. Sweet Box (Sarcococca confusa)

Sarcococca confusa

​​​​The sweet box is a humble winter bloomer that produces delightfully scented flowers. Despite its modest size, this shrub brings a pleasant fragrance and a touch of elegance to your garden during the coldest months of the year. Plant the sweet box in a sheltered spot and enjoy its enchanting bloom.

Purchase Winter-Blooming Plants at Ardcarne Garden Centre

For the most beautiful winter bloomers, visit our garden centre in Boyle or Roscommon Town. Alternatively you can shop our selection online and have the items delivered to your door! Here, you'll find an extensive selection of these enchanting plants that will make your garden shine, even in winter. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to advise you on the proper care of these beautiful winter bloomers. We warmly welcome you and wish you a colourful winter garden!