Most of the deciduous trees have given up their leaves, winter is arriving and I can now see the bare bones of my garden. Even without the in-your-face “wow” factor of the spring garden, I still find color, texture and interest in my winter view.

Winter’s beauty is classic style - subtle, muted and contained. I see less color but enjoy more structure and texture. I have to look more closely but I can still find blooms and fragrance. I appreciate the restful tones of late fall and winter – sophisticated browns, beiges and winter whites with little pops of color, like bright red berries. Take a look in your garden this winter. You’ll be amazed at what you will find that will please and surprise you! 

The tropical look of Fatsia japonica delights in November with puffy balls of white flowers.

The evergreen and fragrant rosemary has cheerful blue blooms going into December

And speaking of fragrance, you can't beat the heady scent of the teeny, tiny blossoms of the tea olive.

Encore azaleas provide a punch of color even after the first frost.

Do Knock Out roses ever stop blooming?

Viburnum are starting to form rosy pink buds that open to reveal creamy white flowers.

Ornamental grasses provide structure, texture and movement in the winter.

The faded blooms of Hydrangea paniculata are beautiful and interesting throughout the winter.

Oakleaf hydrangea shows vivid red and purple leaves late into the fall and early winter season.

Nandina 'Fire Power' brightens up the muted landscape.

One of my least favorite trees in the spring and summer, the river birch takes center stage in winter with wonderful peeling bark.

What announces the season better than bright red holly berries.  Happy holidays!