1. Coral Bells
Coral bells (Heuchera spp.) are low-growing plants with ruffled foliage in shades of green, burgundy, purple, and yellow-orange. They are semi-evergreen in most areas, with their evergreen nature depending largely on winter temperatures. They provide attractive color and texture throughout the colder months. Plant coral bells near walkways where their foliage can be enjoyed up close.
How to Grow:
Plant coral bells in full sun or partial shade in rich, loose, well-drained soil. In regions with hot summers, partial shade is preferable. Water regularly during extended dry periods, as coral bells do not tolerate drought well.
Recommended Varieties:
- ‘Cherry Truffles’ – cranberry-red leaves
- ‘Peachberry Ice’ – vibrant orange-red foliage
Zones: 3–9
2. Pigsqueak
Pigsqueak (Bergenia cordifolia) develops brilliant maroon foliage as temperatures fall. Its large, succulent leaves can make a squeaking sound when rubbed together. In moderately cold conditions, the foliage can remain attractive well into winter. In Zone 6 and above, it often remains evergreen, although extreme cold, snow, and ice can damage the foliage.
How to Grow:
Plant pigsqueak in full shade or partial shade and well-drained soil. It grows best in moist, rich soil but can tolerate a wide range of conditions. Remove old or damaged foliage in early spring.
Recommended Varieties:
- ‘Fairytale Romance’ – large pink flower clusters in early spring
- ‘Happily Ever After’ – large dark-green leaves with white flowers
Zones: 3–8
3. Sedges
Sedges (Carex spp.) are grass-like perennials that grow in clumps, and many varieties are evergreen. Planting several sedges together and repeating the groupings throughout a garden can create rhythm and consistency in the landscape. Their clumps also provide attractive texture during winter.
How to Grow:
Sedges are adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions. Some species thrive in full sun, while others tolerate shade. Certain varieties prefer wet soil, whereas others grow well in dry, sandy conditions. Choose a species that matches the growing conditions of your garden.
Recommended Varieties:
- ‘Ice Dance’ – dark-green leaves with bright white edges; suitable for shade and moist soil
- ‘Bowles Golden’ (Carex elata ‘Aurea’) – bright chartreuse leaves; grows best in moist to wet soil
4. Coneflower
Coneflower (Echinacea spp.) adds strong architectural interest to a garden. Its spiky seedheads remain upright on sturdy stems for months after the petals fall. These seedheads can provide attractive winter structure and may also attract songbirds.
How to Grow:
Plant coneflower in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during the first growing season to encourage a strong root system. Once established, plants generally require little supplemental watering.
Recommended Varieties:
- ‘Frankly Scarlet’ – deep pink flowers with large central cones
- ‘Cheyenne Spirit’ – orange and yellow flowers with a long blooming and lasting performance
Zones: 3–9
5. Sedum
Upright sedums (Hylotelephium spp.) typically grow 1–3 feet tall and bloom in fall. They are excellent choices for dry, hot gardens and also provide valuable winter interest. Their sturdy stems and fleshy leaves can remain upright through much of the winter. Their bold structure works particularly well alongside sedges and ornamental grasses.
How to Grow:
Plant sedum in full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid wet or boggy conditions. Divide plants every three or four years to encourage healthy, sturdy growth and to create additional plants.
Recommended Varieties:
- ‘Autumn Fire’ – dense, upright growth; typically 2–3 feet tall
- ‘Coraljade’ – pink-green flowers in fall with a rounded form; typically 1–2 feet tall
Zones: 3–9
6. Hellebore
Hellebore (Helleborus spp.) is an excellent winter perennial known for its cold-weather flowering. It produces nodding, bell-shaped flowers in late winter. Its evergreen foliage provides attractive structure throughout the colder months. The large, dark-green, palmlike leaves have a leathery texture that tolerates snow and ice well.
How to Grow:
Plant hellebores in full shade or partial shade in moist, rich soil. Cut back old foliage after flowering in spring to encourage new growth. Hellebores are also excellent groundcover plants for shady areas.
Recommended Varieties:
- ‘Blushing Bridesmaid’ – soft pink flowers edged with deep magenta
- ‘California Dreaming’ – bright yellow flowers
Zones: 4–9
7. Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses provide excellent winter interest through their seedheads, stems, and clumps of foliage. Combining tall upright grasses with low-growing varieties can create a landscape rich in texture and movement. They are particularly effective when used in groups or repeated throughout a garden design.
How to Grow:
Most ornamental grasses grow best in full sun and well-drained soil. For spring maintenance, cut the grasses back to approximately 2 inches above ground level.
Recommended Varieties:
- Blue Oat Grass (Helictotrichon sempervirens) – upright growth with stiff, silvery-blue blades
- Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) – airy seedheads that remain attractive through winter
Zones: 3–9
