Winter Landscaping in Virginia: Plants That Keep Your Yard Alive
When the chill sets in and most gardens go dormant, Virginia’s winter landscape still offers a surprising variety of plants that not only survive—but shine. Whether you're looking to add color, structure, fragrance, or even wildlife support, these winter-hardy selections serve distinct purposes that keep your outdoor space vibrant and functional all season long. At Decked Out Landscapes, we help homeowners keep their outdoor spaces vibrant, functional, and beautiful—even in the coldest months. Whether you're looking to add evergreen structure, seasonal color, or support local wildlife, there are plenty of winter-hardy plants that thrive in Virginia’s climate. Here's a guide to some of our favorite selections, grouped by the unique roles they play in your landscape.
Evergreen Structure & Year-Round Interest
These plants provide backbone and greenery even in the coldest months.
Camellia (Camellia japonica or sasanqua)
Benefits: Blooms in late fall to early winter with pink, red, or white flowers. Adds lush evergreen foliage and curb appeal.
Fun fact: Cold-hardy varieties thrive east of Richmond and can grow up to 30 feet tall.
Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia)
Care: Native to Virginia; thrives in partial shade with acidic soil. Mulch in winter and avoid direct winter sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Benefits: Evergreen foliage and spring blooms. Offers habitat for birds and pollinators.
Fun fact: Hardy and low-maintenance, but sensitive to poor drainage
Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana)
Benefits: Lemon-scented flowers in spring, glossy leaves year-round. Attracts birds and pollinators.
Fun fact: Tolerates wet soils and even flooding—great for low-lying areas.
Ornamental Grasses (e.g., switchgrass, feather reed grass)
Benefits: Adds movement, texture, and seed heads for birds.
Fun fact: Some varieties turn golden or reddish in winter, catching frost beautifully
Winter Color & Seasonal Blooms
These plants brighten up the landscape with flowers or vibrant stems.
Winter Jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum)
Benefits: Yellow blooms in January–March. Great for erosion control and cheerful winter color.
Fun fact: Native to China, its name means “flower that welcomes spring”.
Hellebores (Helleborus spp.)
Benefits: Evergreen foliage and blooms from late winter to early spring. Deer-resistant and drought-tolerant.
Fun fact: Comes in shades of burgundy, chartreuse, and white—ideal for shady borders
Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea)
Benefits: Striking red stems in winter, especially against snow.
Fun fact: Native to North America and supports pollinators in spring.
Wildlife Support & Functional Beauty
These plants feed and shelter birds, bees, and other beneficial creatures.
Daffodils & Tulips (Narcissus & Tulipa spp.)
Benefits: Early spring blooms feed pollinators and signal seasonal change.
Fun fact: Tulips and daffodils overwinter underground and bloom before most other plants.
Holly (Ilex opaca, Ilex glabra)
Benefits: Evergreen foliage and red berries feed birds. Deer-resistant and festive.
Fun fact: American holly is native to Virginia and ideal for understory planting.
Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana)
Benefits: Aromatic evergreen with berries for birds. Windbreak and privacy screen.
Fun fact: Turns purplish in winter and tolerates drought, flooding, and poor soil.
Winter landscaping is more than maintenance—it’s an opportunity to enhance your property’s beauty and purpose. From evergreen shrubs that provide year-round structure to cheerful winter blooms and wildlife-friendly plants, your yard can stay lively and inviting all season long. If you're ready to refresh your winter landscape or need help selecting the right plants for your space, our team is here to help. Contact us today for expert advice, seasonal planting, and custom landscape solutions that make your home shine—no matter the weather.