When we think of December gardens, Holly (Ilex) often comes to mind with its glossy leaves and bright berries. But beyond the traditional, there are a number of other beautiful and hardy plants that shine during the colder months. From bold Cornus stems and fragrant Sarcococca to the architectural blooms of Helleborus, winter offers surprising variety for adding structure, colour, and scent to your outdoor space.
Cornus (Dogwood) varieties are beloved for their dramatic, colourful stems that take centre stage in winter once leaves drop. ‘Midwinter Fire’ offers fiery shades of orange and red, while ‘Sibirica’ boasts rich crimson stems. These architectural shrubs shine in winter sunlight and look stunning planted en masse or near evergreens for contrast.
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 3m (depending on the variety)
Width: Up to 2m (depending on the variety)
Soil: moderately fertile soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L ( subject to availability and the variety)
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A compact, evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and small, highly fragrant white flowers that appear in the depths of winter. Ideal for shaded corners, its sweet scent is a welcome surprise in December and January. Great for pots near doorways or woodland-style plantings.
Position: Partial – deep shade
Flowers: December – March
Height: Up to 2m (depending on the variety)
Width: Up to 1m (depending on the variety)
Soil: fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3LD, 5L, 10L ( subject to availability and the variety)
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Skimmias are essential winter-interest shrubs, producing dense clusters of flower buds in autumn that last through winter and open in spring. ‘Rubella’ has dark red buds, while ‘Kew Green’ features cream-white flowers. Their compact form and evergreen foliage make them perfect for shaded borders and containers.
Flowers: April – May (depending on variety) flower buds are seen in autumn-winter.
Position: Partial – full shade
Height: Up to 1.5m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moist-well-drained, acid soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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These reliable evergreens provide valuable structure and winter colour. ‘Viburnum tinus’ produces white-pink flower clusters from December, followed by dark berries. ‘Bodnantense Dawn’ offers fragrant, blush-pink blooms that brave the coldest months.
Flowers: December – April
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Height: Up to 3m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, moist-well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Perfect for shaded spots, Mahonia produces tall spires of bright yellow, sweetly scented flowers from late autumn to early spring. With its spiny, holly-like foliage, it adds height, structure, and seasonal cheer. Prune in spring after flowering to encourage bushier growth.
Flowers: November – March (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 5m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moist-well-drained, fertile, humus-rich soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L, 20L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Compact, shade-loving perennials with evergreen foliage and beautiful, cup-shaped flowers that bloom through winter. Their leathery leaves form tidy clumps and help fill gaps in borders. Remove older foliage in late winter to showcase new blooms.
Flowers: December – March (depending on the variety)
Position: Partial shade
Height: Up to 45cn (depending on the variety)
Soil: Heavy, neutral to alkaline soil
It would help if you planted in partial to full shade for best results and cut back old leaves in January – February to show off new flowers.
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Ever-popular in winter, Ilex provides glossy evergreen leaves and vibrant berries that are festive and wildlife-friendly. Female varieties produce berries if planted near a male. Ilex aquifolium and variegated forms are ideal for hedging or standalone impact.
Position: Full sun – Partial shade
Height: Up to 20m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moist-well-drained, fertile, humus-rich soil
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Whether you’re planning ahead for spring or looking to brighten your borders this December, these shrubs and perennials will keep your garden alive with texture, colour, and scent even in the quietest months.
Posted 20th Dec 1:26pm
