7 Container Plants for Early-Spring Cheer

In cold climates, early spring is too early for summer annuals. These seven plants tolerate chill, bringing flowers and foliage while you wait for warmer weather.

Primrose (Primula vulgaris)

“Primula” from Latin “primus” (first). Semi-evergreen perennial, wide color range. Short stature for container front. Zones 4–8, partial shade, medium moisture. 3–6 in tall, 3–9 in wide.

Hellebore, or Lenten Rose (Helleborus x hybridus)

Evergreen, blooms late winter even under snow. Relocate to landscape after blooms for future years. Zones 4–9, partial to full shade, medium moisture. 1–1.5 ft tall/wide.

Tulip (Tulipa)

Bright spring color. Easiest: buy blooming pots in spring, nestle in container. Zones 3–8, full sun, medium moisture. 6 in–2 ft tall, 6–9 in wide.

Spotted Dead Nettle (Lamium)

Great for container edges. ‘White Nancy’ variety shown. Foliage spills beautifully; blooms May–June. Zones 3–8, partial sun to shade, medium moisture. 6–9 in tall, 2–3 ft wide.

Columbine (Aquilegia)

Compact foliage, delicate nodding flowers to 2 ft. Attracts hummingbirds; deer/rabbit resistant. Zones 3–8, part sun to shade, medium moisture. 1–3 ft tall, 6 in–1.5 ft wide.

Siberian Bugloss, or Brunnera (Brunnera)

Early-midspring bloomer with heart-shaped leaves, light blue forget-me-not-like flowers. Relocate to moist shade after season. Zones 3–8, partial shade, medium moisture. 1–1.5 ft tall/wide.

English Ivy (Hedera)

Favorite for draping habit. Evergreen, tolerates frost. Keep in containers—invasive in some areas. Zones 5–9, partial to full shade, medium moisture. 0.5–1 ft tall, up to 10 ft wide.