Winter-Blooming Flowers: Seeds That Defy the Cold

Plant Before First Frost

Establish roots in fall for winter bloom. Most need 6–8 weeks before hard freeze.

Bulbs for Winter Color

• Snowdrops (Galanthus): White bells, January–February. Naturalize.
• Winter aconite (Eranthis): Yellow cups, February.
• Crocus (C. tommasinianus): Purple/white, February–March. Squirrel-resistant.
• Daffodils (early): 'February Gold', 'Rijnveld's Early Sensation'.
• Cyclamen coum: Pink/white, January–March. Shade.
• Hyacinths (forced): Fragrant, December–January indoors.

Winter-Flowering Shrubs and Perennials

• Camellia sasanqua: Fall–winter bloom. 'Yuletide' (red), 'Snow Flurry' (white). Zone 7–9.
• Winter heath (Erica carnea): Pink/purple bells, January–April. Zone 5–7. Groundcover.
• Honeysuckle (Lonicera fragrantissima): Creamy, fragrant, January–March. Zone 4–8.
• Wintersweet (Chimonanthus praecox): Yellow, spicy scent, December–February. Zone 7–9.
• Witch hazel (Hamamelis): Spidery yellow/red/orange, January–March. Zone 5–8.
• Hellebore (Lenten rose): White/pink/purple/green, November–March. Shade. Zone 4–9.
• Oleaster (Elaeagnus): Tiny fragrant white, fall. Edible berries. Coastal tolerant.

Care for Winter Bloomers

Mulch roots. Water during dry spells. Protect from drying winds. Deadhead for rebloom. Enjoy the defiance of color in gray months.