Who said you have to go all winter long without flowers? Certainly not us! Whether we’re talking about the dead of winter or late winter/early spring, there are flowers that will be in bloom, and we’re here to introduce you to them. No need to thank us—it’s our job (and we love it!).
Our Top Winter-Blooming Flowers
In no particular order, here are our faves. Some you may know well, while others may be new to you (a perfect opportunity to expand your garden!). And guess what? Most of these have an accompanying Growing Guide to give you all the details you need to know. Let the winter blooms begin!
- Amaryllis: Most people are familiar with amaryllis as an indoor blooming holiday plant, and depending upon when you plant them, you can enjoy your amaryllis blooms all winter long! If you plant them outside, plan for a mid-spring bloom time. Need more amaryllis growing tips? Check out our growing guide here.
- Paperwhites: The information we gave for amaryllis is also true for paperwhites—enjoy them all winter long as indoor blooming bulbs or planted outdoors with a February/March bloom. And while many people love the paperwhite fragrance, if it’s too strong for you, try Inball or Wintersun. Refer to our Paperwhite Growing Guide here.
- Cyclamen: These dainty blooms with heart-shaped leaves are a favorite of florists and floral designers as well! Plant them outdoors for a late autumn bloom or enjoy them as a houseplant throughout the winter season.
- Crocus: This late winter/early spring bloomer is a charming low-growing bulb that is critter-resistant and easily naturalized. And if you’re in an area of snow, no worries—crocus will often poke their friendly little faces right up through it! Our Crocus Growing Guide will get you started.
- Snowdrops: Also called Galanthus, snowdrops (like crocus) are one of the first flowers to bloom in late winter and early spring. They’re also critter resistant and sweetly fragrant, adding to their appeal. If you’ve never grown snowdrops before, our growing guide will tell you everything you need to know.
- Winter Aconite: Yellow is not often what comes to mind when we think of winter flowers, but Winter Aconite delivers the goods in an electric sunny shade. Aconite blooms in late winter, often in February, jolting the garden out of its winter slumber. Make sure you plant it where you really want it, because once it’s established, it prefers not to be moved.
- Scilla: Depending upon the variety, these critter-resistant bulbs will bloom anywhere from late winter to late spring. Late winter–bloomers include Scilla Siberica Spring Beauty, Scilla Persian Bluebell, Scilla Bifolia Rosea, our Two Leaf Trio Collection (Alpine Squill), and Scilla Maderensis. Read more scilla planting tips in our growing guide here.
Looking for gifts with winter flowers? We have those, too! From amaryllis and paperwhites to oxalis and houseplants, it’s a one-stop shopping opportunity. Shop all plant gifts here.