14 Flowers That Prove December Isn’t Just Bare Branches
Just because the calendar says December doesn’t mean your garden has to look dull. In fact, plenty of flowers are perfectly happy blooming through the chill, bringing unexpected color and life to winter beds.
Whether you’re in a mild climate or just looking for hardy blooms that don’t mind the cold, these 14 flowers show that December gardening can still be beautiful.
How to Plant Flowers in December
- Look for Cold-Tolerant Varieties: Plants like pansies, hellebores, and violas are bred to handle frost and even snow, making them ideal for winter beds.
- Mix Evergreen and Blooming Plants: Pair flowering plants with evergreens to keep your garden looking full and lush even when some blooms fade.
- Use Containers for Flexibility: Potted flowers can be moved to sunnier spots or protected areas during harsher weather, extending their bloom time.
- Keep Soil Well-Drained: Wet, soggy soil can be more damaging than cold temperatures. Good drainage helps winter flowers thrive.
- Choose a Variety of Bloom Times: Combine early winter, mid-season, and late bloomers to keep something flowering all through December and beyond.
1. Hellebore
Hellebores are often called Christmas roses, and rightly so! They’re one of the first flowers to bloom in winter, typically showing off their gorgeous blooms when the snow is still on the ground. Their delicate petals can be white, pink, or even dark purple, adding a touch of elegance to your winter garden.
These plants are hardy and thrive in shaded areas and well-drained soil. Once established, Hellebores are quite low-maintenance, which is perfect for busy folks during the holiday season!
Popular Varieties
- Jacob’s Ladder Hellebore: Early-winter bloomer with dusky pink petals edged in green—stands out in shaded beds or woodland borders. (Zones 4–9)
- Snowbells Hellebore: Delicate downward-facing white flowers that open in mid to late December; thrives in dappled shade. (Zones 4–9)
- Ivory Prince Hellebore: Compact with upright creamy-white blooms tinged with pink and green, ideal for containers or borders. (Zones 4–9)
- Winter Sunshine Hellebore: Pale lavender-pink flowers that deepen with age; blooms profusely even in low light. (Zones 4–9)
- Green Gambler Hellebore: Striking chartreuse blooms with maroon freckles—excellent for woodland edges or winter interest. (Zones 4–9)
- Peppermint Ice Hellebore: Double flowers in rich pink with frosty white centers, adding bold color to shady winter beds. (Zones 4–9)
- Silver Lace Hellebore: Unusual silver-edged foliage with soft green flowers that appear just before Christmas. (Zones 5–9)
2. Winter Jasmine
Winter Jasmine is a cheerful little plant that brings a burst of sunny yellow to your garden in December. Unlike many other plants that hibernate in the cold, this lovely shrub produces bright, fragrant flowers even in frigid temperatures.
It’s a hardy plant that grows well in various conditions, making it a great addition for those looking for splashes of color in their winter landscape. Just give it a sunny spot, and it’ll reward you with delightful blooms!
Popular Varieties
- Showy Winter Jasmine: Bright yellow, star-shaped flowers bloom on bare green stems in December, ideal for cascading over walls. (Zones 6–10)
- Chinese Winter Jasmine: Early-flowering variety with lemon-yellow blooms on arching stems, often used as ground cover or erosion control. (Zones 6–10)
- Goldstream Winter Jasmine: Compact grower with profuse early winter flowers and dense branching—perfect for small spaces or container use. (Zones 6–10)
- Lemon Glow Winter Jasmine: Slightly paler yellow blooms with a long flowering season starting in late fall; thrives on slopes and trellises. (Zones 6–10)
3. Camellia
Ah, Camellias! These lovely blooms can transform your garden into a winter wonderland. They flower from late fall through winter, with December being a peak time for many varieties. Their rich, layered petals boast a variety of colors, from white to pink to deep red, making them a striking addition to any winter garden.
Camellias prefer partial shade and well-drained soil, so be sure to plant them in a spot where they’ll thrive. They’re also quite resilient, able to handle some cold weather without losing their gorgeous blooms.
Popular Varieties
- Yuletide Camellia: Vibrant red single blooms with golden centers appear right around the holidays—ideal for hedges or foundation plantings. (Zones 7–10)
- Debutante Camellia: Pale pink, peony-like double flowers bloom from early winter, adding softness to shaded borders. (Zones 7–9)
- Winter’s Star Camellia: Lavender-pink petals with a flared, open form—blooms reliably in December and handles colder climates well. (Zones 6–9)
- Pink Icicle Camellia: Cold-hardy selection with large semi-double pink blooms that open in early to mid-winter. (Zones 6–9)
- Snow Flurry Camellia: Masses of small white flowers bloom through December, excellent for screens or mixed shrub borders. (Zones 6–9)
4. Primrose
Primroses are a delightful burst of color during the winter months! These vibrant flowers can bloom in a variety of hues, from soft pastels to bright, eye-catching shades. They’re one of the first flowers to signal the arrival of spring but can also shine in December when planted in the right conditions.
These plants prefer cool weather and thrive in well-draining soil with partial shade. Just keep them watered, and you’ll be rewarded with cheerful blooms all winter long!
Popular Varieties
- Barnhaven Winter Rose Primrose: Ruffled double blooms in rich jewel tones that appear in December, perfect for brightening winter containers. (Zones 4–8)
- Belarina Pink Ice Primrose: Compact and frost-tolerant with fully double pale pink flowers—blooms steadily through winter in mild climates. (Zones 4–8)
- Wanda Primrose: Early-blooming magenta flowers with yellow centers, ideal for edging or naturalizing in shady winter beds. (Zones 3–8)
- Everlast Primrose: Continual bloomer with soft pastel flowers and deep green foliage, thriving in cool winter conditions. (Zones 5–8)
- Blue Zebra Primrose: Unusual striped blue and white petals with bright yellow eyes, a striking winter bloomer for containers or borders. (Zones 4–8)
5. Snowdrop
Snowdrops are such charming little flowers! They are often one of the first signs of spring, but many varieties can bloom in December, bringing a sprinkle of white to the winter landscape. These delicate plants have drooping, pendant flowers that look like little teardrops.
Snowdrops prefer well-drained soil and partial shade. They’re hardy perennials, which means they’ll keep coming back year after year, making them a fantastic choice for your winter garden!
Popular Varieties
- Common Snowdrop: Classic white nodding flowers with green-tipped inner petals—among the earliest to bloom, often in December in mild regions. (Zones 3–8)
- Flore Pleno Snowdrop: Double-flowered form with layered white petals and soft green markings, adding fullness to winter borders. (Zones 3–8)
- Atkinsii Snowdrop: Slender, elegant blooms that open early and multiply well—ideal for naturalizing under trees. (Zones 3–8)
- Magnet Snowdrop: Noted for its long, arching flower stalks and large single blooms that sway easily in winter winds. (Zones 3–8)
- Sam Arnott Snowdrop: Tall-growing with large, fragrant white flowers that stand out in shaded winter gardens. (Zones 3–8)
Popular Reads
6. Holly
Holly is iconic during the holiday season! Known for its glossy green leaves and bright red berries, it’s not just a pretty plant—it’s also a symbol of Christmas cheer. While the berries are the star here, the blooms are small and white and can add an interesting texture to your winter garden.
Holly thrives in well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions. Plus, it’s easy to grow, making it a favorite for festive decorations and gardens alike.
Popular Varieties
- Blue Princess Holly: Dense evergreen with dark blue-green leaves and bright red berries—female variety that shines in winter landscapes. (Zones 5–9)
- China Girl Holly: Compact female holly that produces abundant red berries when paired with a male pollinator—great for hedges. (Zones 5–9)
- Winter Red Holly: Deciduous holly with brilliant red berries that persist through winter after leaf drop—ideal for seasonal color. (Zones 3–9)
- Sky Pencil Holly: Narrow, upright form with glossy green foliage—adds winter structure and pairs well with other evergreens. (Zones 6–9)
- Berry Heavy Holly: Produces extra-large clusters of vivid red berries—excellent for cutting or bird gardens in winter. (Zones 3–8)
- Castle Spire Holly: Pyramidal female plant with deep green leaves and reliable berry production—perfect for formal borders. (Zones 5–7)
- Nellie R. Stevens Holly: Vigorous grower with a dense habit and heavy berry set, popular for privacy screens and winter interest. (Zones 6–9)
7. Daphne
Daphne is a fragrant gem that blooms in late winter, and some varieties can even flower in December. Its small, aromatic blossoms can be white, pink, or lavender, making it a lovely choice for adding scent and beauty to your garden when most other plants are dormant.
These plants prefer well-drained soil and partial shade. They’re a bit finicky in terms of care, but the reward of their lovely blooms and scent is totally worth it.
Popular Varieties
- Winter Daphne: Intensely fragrant pinkish-white blooms emerge in December on glossy evergreen foliage—ideal near walkways or entrances. (Zones 7–9)
- Eternal Fragrance Daphne: Reblooming variety with soft pink flowers and a long winter blooming period in mild regions. (Zones 6–9)
- Lawrence Crocker Daphne: Compact form with purple-pink blooms that may start in late December—excellent for rock gardens or borders. (Zones 6–9)
- Carol Mackie Daphne: Cream-edged foliage and pale pink flowers that can open in early winter during mild seasons. (Zones 4–8)
8. Witch Hazel
Witch Hazel is a unique plant that brings some quirky charm to your winter garden. Its striking yellow, ribbon-like flowers bloom in late winter, often before the leaves emerge. Some varieties can even start blooming in December, adding a lovely pop of color when most other plants are bare.
It enjoys well-drained soil and can thrive in both sun and shade. Plus, it’s known for its medicinal properties, making it not just beautiful but functional!
Popular Varieties
- Jelena Witch Hazel: Coppery-orange ribbon-like flowers bloom in late December, adding warm tones to bare winter branches. (Zones 5–8)
- Arnold Promise Witch Hazel: Fragrant yellow blooms emerge in mid to late winter, sometimes starting in December in mild areas. (Zones 5–8)
- Diane Witch Hazel: Deep red winter flowers with a spicy scent, striking against snow or bare ground. (Zones 5–8)
- Pallida Witch Hazel: Bright lemon-yellow blooms with strong fragrance—often one of the first to flower in winter gardens. (Zones 5–8)
- Ruby Glow Witch Hazel: Rich ruby-red petals unfurl in early to mid-winter, great for winter interest in mixed shrub borders. (Zones 5–8)
- Orange Peel Witch Hazel: Vivid orange flowers with curled petals, blooming heavily from December into February. (Zones 5–8)
- Vesna Witch Hazel: Copper-red flowers with a sweet scent, blooming early and providing subtle color in winter woodlands. (Zones 5–8)
9. Ornamental Kale
Adding a splash of color to your winter garden is easy with Ornamental Kale! While it doesn’t produce flowers like traditional plants, its vibrant, frilly leaves come in stunning shades of purple, pink, and white. These colorful beauties can make your garden look lively and festive during the cold months.
Ornamental Kale prefers well-drained soil and full sun, making it easy to care for. Plus, it adds an interesting texture to your winter landscape.
Popular Varieties
- Peacock White Ornamental Kale: Frilly white centers with green outer leaves—adds bright contrast to winter beds and containers. (Zones 2–11)
- Nagoya Rose Ornamental Kale: Densely ruffled leaves in rich rose-pink tones, cold-hardy and showy through December frost. (Zones 2–11)
- Kamome Red Ornamental Kale: Compact form with deep magenta centers and finely fringed green leaves—ideal for edging or pots. (Zones 2–11)
- Chidori White Ornamental Kale: Creamy white rosettes edged in green that intensify in color with cold—excellent for mixed winter plantings. (Zones 2–11)
- Glamour Red Ornamental Kale: Glossy foliage with bold pink-purple centers, bred for extra shine and weather resistance. (Zones 2–11)
10. Violets
Violets are sweet little plants that can bloom in winter, adding a lovely touch of color to your home or garden. These charming flowers can range from deep purple to soft pink and white, making them versatile for any decor.
They thrive in light, well-drained soil and prefer cool temperatures—ideal for indoor growing during the winter months. Plus, they’re relatively easy to care for, making them a lovely choice for any gardener!
Popular Varieties
- Sweet Violet: Fragrant purple blooms that often appear in December in mild climates—ideal for naturalizing in shady winter gardens. (Zones 4–9)
- Freckles Violet: Pale lavender petals with deep purple speckles, blooming in cool weather and tolerating light frost. (Zones 4–8)
- Royal Robe Violet: Deep violet-blue flowers on compact plants that bloom through winter in containers or groundcover settings. (Zones 6–9)
- White Czar Violet: Pure white blooms with a delicate scent, often flowering in late December—great for brightening shady spots. (Zones 4–9)
- Rebecca Violet: Creamy white petals splashed with purple, highly fragrant and cold-tolerant, ideal near entryways. (Zones 5–9)
11. Mistletoe
Mistletoe is synonymous with holiday cheer! While primarily known for its role in festive traditions, this plant does produce small white berries that are a charming addition to your winter decor.
Mistletoe thrives in partial shade and can often be found growing in trees. Just remember that it’s a hemiparasitic plant, meaning it draws some nutrients from its host plant, so it’s not always the easiest to cultivate at home.
Popular Varieties
- American Mistletoe: Evergreen with thick, rounded leaves and clusters of white berries in winter—traditionally used for holiday décor. (Zones 6–10)
- European Mistletoe: Classic species with forked stems and translucent white berries, often found growing on deciduous trees. (Zones 4–9)
- Oak Mistletoe: Native to the southwestern U.S., with narrow leaves and white berries—favored by birds and blooms around December. (Zones 6–11)
- Desert Mistletoe: Small-leaved variety found in arid regions, produces red berries in winter that attract wildlife. (Zones 8–11)
12. Ivy
Ivy is a versatile plant that can be a great addition to your winter garden. While it’s primarily grown for its foliage, it does produce small flowers that attract pollinators. Ivy thrives in many conditions, making it easy to care for and a lovely choice for indoor or outdoor spaces.
This hardy plant prefers well-drained soil and can handle a range of light conditions, from partial shade to bright indirect light.
Popular Varieties
- English Ivy: Classic evergreen climber with lobed leaves, producing small winter flowers and black berries—ideal for ground cover or walls. (Zones 4–9)
- Glacier Ivy: Variegated form with gray-green leaves edged in white, adds bright foliage to shaded winter containers or trellises. (Zones 5–9)
- Baltic Ivy: Cold-hardy variety with dark green leaves and a vigorous growth habit, great for winter ground cover. (Zones 3–9)
13. Pansy
Pansies are such cheerful flowers that can bring a splash of color to your winter garden! With their wide range of colors and patterns, they’re perfect for pots and garden beds alike. Pansies thrive in cooler temperatures, making them ideal for December blooms.
They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Plus, they’re relatively low-maintenance, perfect for busy gardeners who want a pop of color during the winter months.
Popular Varieties
- Matrix Yellow Pansy: Bright golden blooms with a compact habit—provides cheerful winter color in beds or containers. (Zones 6–10)
- Cool Wave Purple Pansy: Trailing variety with rich purple petals, ideal for winter hanging baskets and ground cover. (Zones 5–9)
- Delta Premium Blue Blotch Pansy: Vivid blue petals with a dark central blotch, blooms reliably through cold winter days. (Zones 6–10)
- Nature Mulberry Shades Pansy: Blended tones of burgundy and plum—striking in mass plantings or mixed seasonal pots. (Zones 6–10)
- Colossus White Pansy: Large white flowers with a soft fragrance and frost resistance, perfect for edging or walkways. (Zones 6–10)
- Ultima Morpho Pansy: Bicolor flowers in soft blue and yellow with a dark center—adds cool contrast to winter arrangements. (Zones 6–10)
- Panola XP Rose Pansy: Compact, cold-hardy hybrid with deep rose petals—ideal for consistent blooms in chilly weather. (Zones 5–9)
14. Periwinkle
Periwinkle is a lovely evergreen that can bloom in winter, often producing pretty blue or purple flowers. Its trailing habit makes it ideal for ground cover, and it can thrive in various light conditions, from full sun to shade.
These hardy plants prefer well-drained soil and can spread easily, making them a great choice for covering bare spots in your garden. Plus, their bright blooms are a nice surprise during the winter months!
Popular Varieties
- Bowles’s Periwinkle: Vigorous ground cover with glossy leaves and lavender-blue blooms that may appear in mild Decembers. (Zones 4–9)
- Atropurpurea Periwinkle: Deep reddish-purple flowers over trailing evergreen foliage—adds subtle winter color to shady areas. (Zones 4–9)
- Alba Periwinkle: Clean white flowers that contrast well with dark green leaves—blooms sporadically in winter in warmer zones. (Zones 4–9)
- Illumination Periwinkle: Variegated foliage with gold centers and violet-blue flowers—brightens up shaded winter beds. (Zones 6–9)
- Ralph Shugert Periwinkle: Compact variety with creamy-edged leaves and occasional cool-season blue blooms. (Zones 4–9)
- Azurea Periwinkle: Sky-blue flowers that may bloom in warm winters—great for erosion control or evergreen cover. (Zones 4–9)
- Gertrude Jekyll Periwinkle: Vigorous white-flowered type with dense mat-forming growth, used for winter greenery under trees. (Zones 4–9)
FAQs
Yes, many varieties of camellias bloom from late fall through early spring, including December. They’re especially popular in the southeastern US due to their preference for mild winters. Their rose-like flowers come in shades of pink, red, and white.
Yes, hellebores (also called Christmas roses) are known to bloom even in snowy conditions. They thrive in cold climates and often push through snow with beautiful flowers in shades of white, pink, and purple. They’re a favorite for winter gardens in colder zones.
Some ornamental trees like the winter-blooming cherry (Prunus subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’) can bloom in December, especially in milder climates. These trees produce delicate pink flowers and may have sporadic blooming throughout winter. They add unexpected beauty to winter landscapes.
Popular indoor plants like Christmas cactus, poinsettias, and amaryllis often bloom in December. They’re commonly used for holiday décor and are easy to care for indoors. With the right lighting and watering, they can brighten your space all winter long.