Seasonal indicators – hardiness zones compared (USDA, RHS, Canadian & Australian)

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All 194 seasonal indicators in the catalogue, alphabetical by common name. Each links to a full page with its ratings across the USDA, RHS, Canadian and Australian systems.

Apothecary’s rose Rosa gallica ‘Officinalis’ – Old garden rose with semi-double rich pink flowers and powerful damask fragrance in a single concentrated flush at midsummer. One of the oldest cultivated roses in Europe. USDA zones 3–8
Apple — Granny Smith Malus domestica "Granny Smith" – Late-season green apple originating in Australia. Tart and crisp, an excellent keeper and cooking apple as well as a popular dessert variety. USDA zones 6–9
Autumn crocus (Meadow saffron) Colchicum autumnale – Crocus-like bulb that throws up leafless pale lilac-pink goblet flowers from bare ground in late summer and early autumn. Strap-like leaves follow in spring. USDA zones 4–9
Autumn daffodil Sternbergia lutea – Mediterranean bulb with goblet-shaped buttercup-yellow flowers — looking like crocuses but actually in the amaryllis family — emerging straight from bare ground in autumn alongside the new strap-like leaves. USDA zones 6–9
Belladonna lily (Naked ladies) Amaryllis belladonna – South African bulb that produces tall bare stems carrying clusters of fragrant pink trumpet flowers in late summer — hence the common name “naked ladies”, because the leaves are entirely absent at flowering time. USDA zones 7–10
Bird cherry Prunus padus – Small native cherry of damp woodland, flowering in long fragrant white racemes after the leaves are out. Bitter black fruits are quickly stripped by birds. USDA zones 3–7
Bird's foot trefoil Lotus corniculatus – Sprawling European perennial with bright yellow pea-flowers fading to orange and seed pods arranged like a bird's claws. A meadow staple supporting many butterfly species. USDA zones 3–8
Black tupelo (Black gum) Nyssa sylvatica – Eastern North American native tree with glossy leaves that turn brilliant scarlet, orange and yellow in mid-autumn — often considered the single most spectacular native tree for autumn colour. USDA zones 4–9
Black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia hirta – North American native daisy with rich golden-yellow petals around a dark chocolate central cone. Peak bloom from midsummer well into autumn. USDA zones 3–9
Blazing star (Gayfeather) Liatris spicata – Upright North American prairie native with grassy foliage and dense bottlebrush spikes of magenta or white flowers opening from the top down — unusual among spike flowers. USDA zones 3–9
Bloodroot Sanguinaria canadensis – Spring ephemeral of eastern North American woodlands. White flowers and orange-red sap from the rhizome. Listed for reference rather than home use. USDA zones 3–8
Blue vervain Verbena hastata – North American native vervain with candelabra spikes of small blue-violet flowers. Nervine and digestive with a bitter taste. USDA zones 3–8
Buckthorn — Alder Frangula alnus – Wetland-edge European shrub. Aged bark is a stimulant laxative similar to senna; only the dried-and-aged bark is safe — fresh bark causes severe vomiting. USDA zones 3–7
Burning bush (Winged spindle) Euonymus alatus – East Asian deciduous shrub with distinctive corky-winged stems and foliage that turns the most intense fluorescent pink-red of any autumn shrub. The colour is so vivid the common name describes it as on fire. USDA zones 4–8
California poppy Eschscholzia californica – Brilliant orange-flowered native of California, perennial in mild climates and an annual elsewhere. Traditional gentle sedative and analgesic. USDA zones 5–10
Christmas rose hellebore Helleborus niger – Evergreen shade perennial with leathery dark leaves and large pure white flowers in midwinter. Distinct from the more familiar Lenten rose hellebore (H. orientalis). USDA zones 3–8
Chrysanthemum (medicinal) Chrysanthemum morifolium – Cultivated chrysanthemum with edible flowers used in TCM as an eye and liver herb. The same species used widely as an autumn cut flower. USDA zones 5–9
Cleavers (Goosegrass) Galium aparine – Sticky scrambling annual that catches on clothing — and on itself — via tiny hooked hairs. Traditional spring lymphatic tonic; young shoots edible. USDA zones 2–9
Coltsfoot Tussilago farfara – Spring perennial whose yellow flowers emerge before any leaves appear — among the very first wildflowers of the temperate spring. Traditional respiratory herb. USDA zones 3–8
Common dog violet Viola riviniana – Low-growing native woodland violet with unscented blue-violet flowers in early spring. The most widespread larval host for fritillary butterflies. USDA zones 3–8
Common dogwood Cornus sanguinea – Native hedgerow shrub with white flat-topped flower clusters in summer, black berries in autumn and rich red young stems that glow through winter. USDA zones 4–8
Common honeysuckle (Woodbine) Lonicera periclymenum – Twining deciduous climber with intensely fragrant cream and pink trumpet flowers. The classic scent of midsummer evenings in the British countryside. USDA zones 4–9
Common ivy Hedera helix – Self-clinging evergreen climber that becomes shrubby and flowers only on mature stems high up on its support. The flowers are one of the most important late-season nectar sources in temperate gardens. USDA zones 4–9
Coral tree (Cockspur) Erythrina crista-galli – Small ornamental South American tree producing vivid red papilionaceous flowers in late summer. National flower of Argentina and Uruguay. USDA zones 8–11
Corn poppy (Common poppy) Papaver rhoeas – Iconic scarlet annual of disturbed ground and cornfields. The remembrance poppy and the visual signature of summer field margins. USDA zones 3–9
Cowslip Primula veris – Native meadow perennial with clusters of nodding deep yellow flowers held above a rosette of leaves. Once common in chalk and limestone grassland. USDA zones 3–8
Crab apple ‘John Downie’ Malus ‘John Downie’ – Small ornamental crab apple with white spring blossom and abundant orange-red conical fruits in autumn. Among the best crab apples for both eating and wildlife. USDA zones 4–8
Crimson bottlebrush Callistemon citrinus – Medium shrub or small tree with narrow lemon-scented leaves and iconic bright red bottlebrush flower spikes that draw honeyeaters and lorikeets in numbers. USDA zones 8–11
Crimson clover Trifolium incarnatum – Tall annual clover with deep crimson flower heads — striking enough to be ornamental as well as agricultural. A staple winter cover crop in orchards. USDA zones 5–9
Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ – Tall corm-forming perennial with sword-shaped foliage and arching sprays of brilliant flame-red tubular flowers in midsummer. The dominant flowering cultivar in temperate gardens. USDA zones 5–9
Crown imperial Fritillaria imperialis – Tall bulb (90 cm or more) with a crown of pendant orange, yellow or red bell flowers topped by a tuft of leaf-like bracts. A dramatic mid-spring statement plant. USDA zones 5–9
Cuckoo flower (Lady’s smock) Cardamine pratensis – Slender pale-mauve wildflower of damp meadows and stream banks, flowering with the arrival of the cuckoo in spring. USDA zones 3–8
Damask rose Rosa × damascena – Old garden rose with loose semi-double pale pink flowers and supremely intense fragrance, in a single midsummer flush. The source of most commercially distilled rose oil. USDA zones 4–9
Day lily ‘Stella de Oro’ Hemerocallis ‘Stella de Oro’ – Compact reblooming day lily with golden-yellow flowers from early summer until autumn frost. Each flower lasts a single day, but successive buds keep the plant in continuous bloom. USDA zones 3–9
Disanthus Disanthus cercidifolius – Choice Japanese deciduous shrub with rounded heart-shaped leaves like a redbud, turning spectacular crimson, claret and orange in autumn. A connoisseur’s autumn-colour shrub. USDA zones 6–8
Dragon fruit (Pitaya) Selenicereus undatus – Climbing tropical cactus producing large pink-skinned fruit with white or pink flesh. Spectacular night-opening flowers. USDA zones 10–12
Dutchman’s breeches Dicentra cucullaria – Delicate eastern North American spring ephemeral with finely divided fern-like foliage and rows of small white pantaloon-shaped flowers in mid-spring. USDA zones 3–7
Dwarf sweet box Sarcococca hookeriana var. humilis – Low spreading evergreen sweet box reaching only 50–60 cm tall, with the same intensely fragrant winter flowers as taller forms. Spreads slowly by suckers to form a low evergreen mat. USDA zones 6–9
Dwarf witch alder Fothergilla gardenii – Compact eastern North American shrub reaching only 1 m, with white bottlebrush spring flowers and outstanding autumn colour in glowing yellow, orange and red on a small frame. USDA zones 5–8
Eastern cyclamen Cyclamen coum – Small woodland cyclamen with rounded silver-marbled leaves and pink, magenta or white shuttlecock flowers from midwinter through early spring. USDA zones 5–9
Elecampane Inula helenium – Architectural perennial reaching 1.5–2 m with sunflower-like yellow flowers. Aromatic root is a traditional respiratory and digestive herb. USDA zones 3–8
English bluebell Hyacinthoides non-scripta – Native woodland bulb forming sheets of nodding deep violet-blue bells in April and May. Bluebell woods are an internationally recognised UK habitat. USDA zones 4–8
English holly Ilex aquifolium – Evergreen tree or shrub with glossy spiny leaves and bright red winter berries. The traditional Christmas holly of the British Isles. USDA zones 5–9
Eucalyptus — Lemon-scented Corymbia citriodora – Tall eucalyptus with smooth pale bark and lemon-fragrant leaves. Essential oil is dominated by citronellal — a recognised insect repellent. USDA zones 9–11
European dog’s tooth violet Erythronium dens-canis – Diminutive European spring ephemeral with mottled leaves and nodding pink or lilac flowers with strongly recurved petals. Bulb shape suggests a dog’s tooth, giving rise to the name. USDA zones 3–8
Feather reed grass ‘Karl Foerster’ Calamagrostis × acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’ – Sterile hybrid grass forming strict upright columns of narrow foliage topped by feather plumes that flower in early summer (earlier than most ornamental grasses) and turn straw-tan, persisting through winter. USDA zones 4–9
February daphne Daphne mezereum – Small deciduous shrub with intensely fragrant rose-pink flowers wreathing the bare upright stems in late winter. The species epithet (mezereum) and common name both reference its February flowering. USDA zones 4–7
Feverfew Tanacetum parthenium – Daisy-flowered perennial historically used for migraine prevention. Leaves and flowers carry the active sesquiterpene parthenolide. USDA zones 5–9
Florist’s anemone Anemone coronaria – Mediterranean tuberous perennial with deeply divided ferny foliage and large jewel-toned poppy-like flowers in red, blue, mauve, pink, or white with prominent dark central stamens. The classic spring florist’s flower. USDA zones 7–10
Forsythia Forsythia suspensa – Familiar yellow spring-flowering shrub with a less-known second life as a TCM antiviral ("lianqiao") harvested from the fruit. USDA zones 5–8
Fountain grass Pennisetum alopecuroides – East Asian native ornamental grass forming arching fountain-shaped clumps with fluffy bottlebrush flower spikes in late summer, ageing through caramel to tan and persisting through winter. USDA zones 5–9
Full moon maple ‘Aconitifolium’ Acer japonicum ‘Aconitifolium’ – Japanese maple cultivar with deeply cut nine- to eleven-lobed leaves like aconite foliage, turning spectacular ruby-red and scarlet in autumn. Distinct from the more widely grown Acer palmatum cultivars. USDA zones 5–8
Garden pansy Viola × wittrockiana – Hybrid bedding pansy with larger flowers than Viola tricolor in almost every colour combination, with the characteristic face markings. The mainstay of cool-season bedding worldwide. USDA zones 4–8
Garden phlox Phlox paniculata – Tall North American native perennial with broad domed clusters of fragrant flowers in pink, white, lilac or magenta. Peak bloom in midsummer signals high summer in temperate gardens. USDA zones 4–8
Garlic Allium sativum – Indispensable culinary allium grown from cloves. Hardneck types produce edible flower scapes; softneck types store longer and braid easily. USDA zones 4–9
Giant feather grass Stipa gigantea – Iberian native ornamental grass forming a low fountain of fine evergreen leaves topped by airy 2 m tall panicles of golden oat-like flowers that catch the wind beautifully. USDA zones 5–9
Giant onion Allium giganteum – Tall central Asian ornamental allium with stems reaching 1.5 m and dense 15 cm spheres of small lilac-purple star flowers above broad strap-like leaves. A dramatic vertical accent for the late-spring border. USDA zones 5–9
Globe artichoke Cynara scolymus – Architectural Mediterranean perennial grown for edible immature flower buds. Spectacular open flowers if harvest is missed. USDA zones 6–11
Globemaster ornamental allium Allium ‘Globemaster’ – Hybrid ornamental allium with massive 25 cm spherical heads of small star-shaped violet flowers held on tall stems above strap-like grey-green leaves. The most dramatic of the ornamental alliums. USDA zones 4–9
Glory of the snow Chionodoxa forbesii – Small early-spring bulb with star-shaped sky-blue flowers carried six-to-the-stem above strap-like leaves. Often emerges through the last of the snow, giving rise to its common name. USDA zones 3–8
Golden wattle Acacia pycnantha – Australia's national floral emblem — a small tree producing dense balls of brilliant yellow flowers in late winter and early spring. USDA zones 8–11
Gorse Ulex europaeus – Spiny European shrub flowering nearly year-round in mild climates. A working European hedge plant — and one of the most aggressive invasive weeds outside Europe. USDA zones 7–9
Greek windflower Anemone blanda – Low spreading Mediterranean tuber with starry daisy-like flowers in blue, pink or white above ferny foliage, carpeting the ground in earliest spring. USDA zones 5–9
Guelder rose Viburnum opulus – European hedgerow shrub with white lace-cap flowers in spring and clusters of bright red translucent berries in autumn. Bark ("crampbark") is a traditional antispasmodic. USDA zones 3–8
Guernsey lily Nerine sarniensis – South African bulb with brilliant scarlet or pink autumn flowers carried in umbels on bare stems. Petals appear dusted with gold or silver in low light. The traditional Guernsey hothouse flower. USDA zones 8–10
Hairpin banksia Banksia spinulosa – Compact eastern Australian banksia with narrow spiny leaves and golden cylindrical flower spikes through autumn and winter. USDA zones 8–11
Hardy nerine Nerine bowdenii – South African bulb with strap-like leaves and umbels of bright pink trumpet flowers with rolled-back petals on bare stems in autumn. The hardiest of the cultivated nerines. USDA zones 7–10
Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna – Thorny hedgerow tree with white spring blossom and red autumn haws. Backbone of British and Irish hedgerow ecology — supports hundreds of insect species. USDA zones 4–8
Hazelnut (Cobnut, Filbert) Corylus avellana – Multi-stemmed deciduous shrub or small tree, native to Europe and historically coppiced for poles, hurdles, and nuts. Excellent wildlife habitat. USDA zones 3–9
Himalayan birch (West Himalayan birch) Betula utilis var. jacquemontii – Elegant Himalayan birch with brilliant chalk-white peeling bark and yellow autumn foliage. The white bark is most luminous against winter sky and dark conifer backdrops. USDA zones 4–7
Honesty (Money plant) Lunaria annua – European biennial brassica with rosettes of heart-shaped leaves the first year and tall stems of fragrant purple or white flowers the second, followed by spectacular papery silver translucent seed pods. USDA zones 4–8
Honeyberry (Haskap) Lonicera caerulea – Cold-climate bush honeysuckle producing oblong dark-blue berries with blueberry-like flavour. The first ripe fruit of the season in cold climates. USDA zones 2–6
Ivy-leaved cyclamen Cyclamen hederifolium – Carpet-forming tuberous cyclamen with intricately silver-marbled ivy-shaped leaves and pink or white shuttlecock flowers from late summer well into autumn. Flowers appear before the new leaves. USDA zones 5–9
Jack-in-the-pulpit Arisaema triphyllum – Distinctive eastern North American woodland perennial with a hooded green-and-purple striped flower spathe (the pulpit) curving over a central spadix (Jack). Emerges with the spring ephemerals but persists longer. USDA zones 4–9
Japanese anemone Anemone × hybrida – Tall herbaceous perennial with branched stems carrying simple bowl-shaped pink or white flowers above mounded dark foliage from late summer well into autumn. USDA zones 4–8
Japanese maple ‘Osakazuki’ Acer palmatum ‘Osakazuki’ – Acer palmatum cultivar consistently rated by horticulturists as the single most reliable Japanese maple for brilliant scarlet autumn colour. Larger and more vigorous than most palmatum cultivars. USDA zones 5–8
Japanese stewartia Stewartia pseudocamellia – Choice Japanese deciduous tree with camellia-like white flowers in midsummer, brilliant red-orange autumn colour, and striking flaking bark in tan, grey and cinnamon. A four-season tree. USDA zones 5–8
Joe Pye weed Eutrochium purpureum – Tall (2–3 m) clump-forming perennial with mauve-pink flower heads. Traditional urinary tonic; one of the most important late-season nectar plants of the eastern North American garden. USDA zones 4–9
Kaffir lily Hesperantha coccinea – South African perennial with sword-shaped foliage and tall stems carrying open star-shaped flowers in scarlet, pink or white. Flowers in late summer and well into autumn. USDA zones 6–9
Kangaroo paw Anigozanthos spp. – Iconic Western Australian perennial with strap-like leaves and tall stems of furry tubular flowers in red, yellow, green or pink, shaped like a kangaroo’s paw. USDA zones 9–11
Kowhai Sophora tetraptera – Iconic small New Zealand tree with cascading clusters of bright yellow tubular flowers in early spring — the country's unofficial national flower. USDA zones 8–10
Laburnum (Golden chain) Laburnum anagyroides – Small European tree with spectacular pendulous racemes of yellow flowers in late spring — the famous Laburnum Arch at Bodnant Garden being the iconic example. USDA zones 5–8
Large white trillium Trillium grandiflorum – Iconic eastern North American spring ephemeral with large pure white three-petalled flowers above a whorl of three leaves. Emerges, flowers and goes dormant before the woodland canopy fully closes. USDA zones 4–8
Laurustinus Viburnum tinus – Dense evergreen Mediterranean shrub with pink-budded white flower clusters from late autumn through to spring, followed by metallic blue-black berries. USDA zones 7–10
Lavandin Lavandula × intermedia – Vigorous hybrid lavender (English lavender × spike lavender) with longer flower spikes, taller habit and later flowering than English lavender. The lavender of the great Provence fields. USDA zones 5–9
Lemon — Eureka Citrus × limon "Eureka" – The standard commercial lemon. Heavy-cropping evergreen tree producing fruit nearly year-round in warm climates. USDA zones 9–11
Lemon — Eureka Variegated Pink Citrus × limon "Variegated Pink" – Striking ornamental-and-edible lemon — green-and-cream variegated foliage and pink-fleshed fruit with green-and-yellow striped skin. USDA zones 9–11
Lesser celandine Ficaria verna – Low spreading native spring ephemeral with glossy heart-shaped leaves and brilliant yellow buttercup flowers in earliest spring. Dies back completely by early summer. USDA zones 4–8
Lilly pilly — Riberry Syzygium luehmannii – Australian native rainforest tree with bright pink new growth and clusters of small tart-sweet pink-red berries — a popular bushfood and excellent screening hedge. USDA zones 9–11
Linden (Lime tree) Tilia cordata – Large long-lived European tree (the British "lime", unrelated to citrus). Flowers are a classic European nervine tea — calming and mildly sleep-promoting. USDA zones 3–8
Liverleaf Hepatica nobilis – Diminutive evergreen woodland perennial with three-lobed leathery leaves and starry blue, pink or white flowers in earliest spring, often before the new leaves emerge. USDA zones 4–8
Loquat Eriobotrya japonica – Evergreen tree with leathery dark leaves, fragrant autumn flowers, and orange fruit ripening in late winter — a rare fruit tree in season at that time. USDA zones 8–11
Lupin — Russell hybrid Lupinus × regalis – Garden hybrid lupin in a vivid range of colours — pink, white, yellow, blue, red, bicolour — bred from George Russell's seedlings in 1930s Yorkshire. USDA zones 4–8
Maiden grass ‘Gracillimus’ Miscanthus sinensis ‘Gracillimus’ – Selected cultivar of Chinese silver grass with extra-narrow gracefully arching foliage and silver-tan plume flowers in autumn. The classic mid-sized fountain-shaped ornamental grass of the modern border. USDA zones 5–9
Manuka Leptospermum scoparium – New Zealand and southeastern Australian native shrub with masses of small white or pink flowers. Source of the famous manuka honey and a strong antimicrobial essential oil. USDA zones 8–10
Marsh marigold (Kingcup) Caltha palustris – Native pond-margin perennial with large glossy buttercup-yellow flowers in earliest spring above mounds of round dark green leaves. USDA zones 3–7
Masterwort Astrantia major – Cottage-garden perennial with intricate flower heads of tiny florets ringed by papery bracts in pale pink, white or deep ruby — like miniature Victorian posies on wiry stems. USDA zones 4–7
Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria – Damp-meadow perennial with frothy creamy flower heads carrying salicylates — the natural precursor that gave aspirin its name (from the old genus Spiraea). USDA zones 3–8
Michaelmas daisy Symphyotrichum spp. – Tall North American native perennials with sprays of small daisy flowers in lilac, pink, and white. The last major nectar source of the gardening year. USDA zones 3–8
Miss Willmott’s ghost Eryngium giganteum – Biennial sea holly with silver-white spiny bracts surrounding pale steely-blue thimble-shaped flower heads. Whole plant takes on a ghostly luminous quality in midsummer. USDA zones 4–8
Monarda (Bee balm) Monarda didyma – Showy mint-family perennial with red, pink, or purple flower heads. Traditional Native American antimicrobial and respiratory herb; the source of "Oswego tea". USDA zones 3–9
Morning Light maiden grass Miscanthus sinensis ‘Morning Light’ – Selected cultivar of Chinese silver grass with narrow leaves edged in fine white variegation that gives the whole plant a silvery shimmer, especially when backlit by low sun. Late and sparing flowering reduces self-seeding. USDA zones 5–9
Mountain clematis Clematis montana – Vigorous Himalayan deciduous clematis with masses of small white or pink four-petalled flowers smothering the plant in late spring. The earliest and most reliably free-flowering of the large clematis species. USDA zones 6–9
Mountain witch alder Fothergilla major – Compact eastern North American native shrub with fragrant white bottlebrush flowers in spring before the leaves, and spectacular autumn colour in shades of yellow, orange and scarlet on a single bush. USDA zones 4–8
Mullein Verbascum thapsus – Striking biennial with a basal rosette of soft fuzzy leaves in year one and a tall flowering spike (1.5–2 m) in year two. Traditional respiratory and ear-infection herb. USDA zones 3–9
Native sarsaparilla Hardenbergia violacea – Twining Australian native climber or trailing ground cover with leathery leaves and sprays of small purple pea flowers in late winter and early spring. USDA zones 8–11
Northern sea oats Chasmanthium latifolium – Eastern North American native woodland-edge grass with broad bamboo-like leaves and flat oat-like green seed heads that hang on slender stems, ageing through bronze to tan and persisting through winter. USDA zones 3–8
Orange — Blood (Moro) Citrus sinensis "Moro" – Mediterranean-origin orange whose flesh develops a deep red to maroon colour during cold winter nights. USDA zones 8–11
Orange — Valencia Citrus sinensis "Valencia" – Late-season juice orange — the global standard for orange juice. Holds on the tree for months, allowing extended harvest. USDA zones 9–11
Orange — Washington Navel Citrus sinensis "Washington Navel" – Brazilian-origin seedless winter-ripening orange. The dominant fresh-eating navel variety and the parent of most other navel cultivars. USDA zones 9–11
Orange ditch lily Hemerocallis fulva – Vigorous spreading day lily with bright orange flowers in midsummer. Long-naturalised in roadside ditches and old farm sites across temperate North America and Europe — hence the common name. USDA zones 3–9
Oregon grape Mahonia aquifolium – Evergreen shrub with glossy holly-like leaves, fragrant yellow winter flower clusters and clusters of grape-like blue-black berries in summer. USDA zones 5–8
Ornamental kale (Flowering cabbage) Brassica oleracea var. acephala – Showy ornamental selections of the same species as kale and cabbage, with frilly or feathery rosette leaves in cream, pink, magenta, or purple developing their strongest colour with the first autumn frosts. USDA zones 2–11
Oxeye daisy Leucanthemum vulgare – Tall white-and-yellow daisy of native flower meadows. The visual signature of midsummer grassland and a workhorse of meadow pollinator support. USDA zones 3–8
Paperbark maple Acer griseum – Slow-growing Chinese maple with thin papery cinnamon-coloured bark that peels in curled strips and translucent papery sheets, particularly striking when backlit by winter sun. USDA zones 4–8
Paperbush Edgeworthia chrysantha – Architectural deciduous shrub with three-branched stems carrying pendant clusters of fragrant silky yellow flowers on bare wood in late winter. Native to the Himalayan region. USDA zones 7–10
Pasque flower Pulsatilla vulgaris – Tufted dry-grassland perennial with silky-haired buds opening to deep purple cup-shaped flowers around Easter, followed by feathery silver seed heads. The common name refers to Easter (Pâques). USDA zones 4–8
Pau D'Arco Tabebuia impetiginosa – Large South American tree producing spectacular pink-purple trumpet flowers in spring before leaves emerge. Inner bark contains lapachol — antimicrobial and antifungal. USDA zones 9–12
Père David’s maple (Snake-bark maple) Acer davidii – Chinese maple with smooth green bark vertically striped with white, like the markings of a snake. One of several snake-bark maples — the bark is the dominant winter feature. USDA zones 5–8
Persian ironwood Parrotia persica – Spreading deciduous tree from the Caspian region with leaves that turn through every shade of yellow, orange, red and purple in autumn over an unusually long period. The bark is also strikingly mottled. USDA zones 4–8
Persimmon — Asian Diospyros kaki – Small deciduous tree with dramatic orange autumn fruit that hangs after leaf-fall. Stunning seasonal display in cool subtropical climates. USDA zones 7–10
Pohutukawa (NZ Christmas tree) Metrosideros excelsa – Iconic New Zealand coastal tree with leathery dark green leaves, silver undersides, and brilliant crimson brush-like flowers at midsummer. USDA zones 9–11
Pomegranate Punica granatum – Multi-stemmed deciduous shrub or small tree with brilliant orange-red flowers and leathery-skinned fruit packed with jewelled arils. USDA zones 7–12
Primrose Primula vulgaris – Clump-forming native woodland-edge perennial with pale yellow flowers held just above a rosette of crinkled leaves. One of the very first flowers of spring. USDA zones 4–8
Purple loosestrife Lythrum salicaria – Tall native wetland perennial with spectacular spires of magenta flowers in late summer. Outstanding bee plant in its native range. USDA zones 3–9
Purple top vervain Verbena bonariensis – Tall airy South American perennial with sparse wiry stems carrying small clusters of bright lilac-purple flowers. Sees-through quality lets it dominate borders without blocking the view. USDA zones 7–11
Red campion Silene dioica – Native woodland-edge perennial with deep pink five-petalled flowers. Often the first splash of colour beside emerging bluebells in spring woodland. USDA zones 3–8
Red osier dogwood Cornus sericea – North American native shrub with white spring flower clusters, white-blue autumn berries and brilliant scarlet young winter stems. Spreads by suckers to form thickets. USDA zones 2–7
Red trillium (Wakerobin) Trillium erectum – Eastern North American spring ephemeral with three deep maroon-red petals above a whorl of three broad leaves. Flowers just as the first warblers return — hence the alternative common name Wakerobin. USDA zones 4–9
Redvein enkianthus Enkianthus campanulatus – Upright Japanese deciduous shrub with pendant clusters of small cream bell flowers veined in red in late spring, followed by spectacular orange and red autumn colour on tiered branches. USDA zones 4–7
Reticulated iris Iris reticulata – Diminutive dwarf iris flowering at just 10–15 cm tall in late winter, with deep violet, blue or purple falls strikingly marked in yellow. USDA zones 5–9
River birch ‘Heritage’ Betula nigra ‘Heritage’ – Selected cultivar of North American river birch with strikingly creamy-pink peeling bark and excellent resistance to bronze birch borer — the most reliable birch for warm-climate gardens. USDA zones 4–9
Rosehip (Dog rose) Rosa canina – Wild European hedgerow rose. Bright red autumn hips carry exceptionally high vitamin C and were the basis of wartime UK rosehip syrup. USDA zones 3–8
Rowan (Mountain ash) Sorbus aucuparia – Small graceful European tree with feathery foliage and brilliant orange-red berries. Berries are exceptionally high in vitamin C and traditionally used in jellies and tonics. USDA zones 3–7
Royal poinciana (Flame tree) Delonix regia – Large tropical tree producing spectacular orange-red flower clusters across the entire canopy in summer. Madagascan origin; widely planted across the tropics. USDA zones 10–12
Sage — Common Salvia officinalis – Aromatic Mediterranean evergreen sub-shrub with grey-green felted leaves. Strong bee forage when in flower. USDA zones 4–9
Sage — Pineapple Salvia elegans – Mexican origin tender salvia with bright pineapple-scented leaves and brilliant scarlet autumn flower spikes. USDA zones 8–11
Scarlet willow Salix alba var. vitellina ‘Britzensis’ – Selected cultivar of the white willow, with brilliant orange-red young winter stems that glow particularly intensely in low winter sun. Pollarded annually it becomes a winter exclamation point in the landscape. USDA zones 2–8
Schisandra Schisandra chinensis – Hardy deciduous climbing vine producing red berries known in Chinese as "wu wei zi" — five-flavour fruit. Adaptogenic and liver-protective. USDA zones 3–8
Scotch broom Cytisus scoparius – European shrub with masses of bright yellow pea-flowers in late spring. Highly invasive in many regions outside its native range. USDA zones 5–8
Showy autumn crocus Colchicum speciosum – Caucasian colchicum with larger goblet-shaped flowers than the European species, in deep rose-pink with a white throat. The most spectacular of the autumn-flowering colchicums. USDA zones 4–9
Siberian dogwood Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’ – Vigorous deciduous shrub grown specifically for its brilliant sealing-wax red young winter stems. Bare scarlet bark against snow or grey winter sky is its single most important garden function. USDA zones 3–7
Siberian squill Scilla siberica – Small bulb with nodding deep blue bell flowers in earliest spring. One of the most cold-hardy spring bulbs — flowers reliably where temperatures regularly drop below -30 °C. USDA zones 2–8
Silver wattle Acacia dealbata – Tall fast-growing Australian acacia with feathery silver foliage and intensely fragrant yellow ball flowers — sold in European florists as "mimosa". USDA zones 8–10
Sloe (Blackthorn) Prunus spinosa – Suckering thorny shrub of European hedgerows. White flowers smother the bare branches before leaves emerge — a reliable late-winter signal. USDA zones 4–8
Small globe thistle Echinops ritro – Architectural southern European perennial with deeply cut spiny grey-green leaves and steel-blue spherical flower heads on tall stems in midsummer. USDA zones 3–9
Smoke bush ‘Royal Purple’ Cotinus coggygria ‘Royal Purple’ – Deciduous shrub or small tree with rich purple-black foliage all summer, smoky pink panicles of tiny flowers in midsummer, and brilliant scarlet autumn colour. USDA zones 5–8
Snake’s head fritillary Fritillaria meleagris – Slender bulb with pendant chequered purple or white bell flowers on wiry stems in mid-spring. Once carpeted English damp meadows, now mostly seen at a handful of protected sites. USDA zones 3–8
Sneezeweed Helenium autumnale – North American prairie native perennial with daisy flowers in fiery orange, red, and yellow tones around a prominent round central cone. The signature late-summer prairie perennial. USDA zones 3–8
Snow crocus Crocus chrysanthus – Small early-flowering crocus species with golden or cream flowers, often pushing through the last snow. Several weeks ahead of the larger spring crocus (C. vernus). USDA zones 3–8
Snowdrop Galanthus nivalis – Nodding white winter bulb that often pierces snow to flower. Naturalises freely in woodland, hedge banks and short grass. USDA zones 3–8
Solomon's seal Polygonatum biflorum – Arching woodland perennial with paired white pendant flowers under each leaf node. Rhizomes used in folk medicine for connective-tissue and joint support. USDA zones 3–8
Sorrel — French Rumex scutatus – Compact perennial herb with sharp lemony leaves. One of the first edible greens to reappear in spring. USDA zones 3–9
Sourwood Oxydendrum arboreum – Slow-growing eastern North American native tree with pendant sprays of small white bell flowers in midsummer and brilliant crimson autumn colour. The dual-season indicator of southern Appalachian forests. USDA zones 5–9
Spicebush Lindera benzoin – Eastern North American understorey shrub with intensely aromatic bark, leaves, and red berries. Traditional culinary spice and medicinal substitute for tropical spices in colonial kitchens. USDA zones 4–9
Spindle tree Euonymus europaeus – Native small tree or large shrub with inconspicuous summer flowers and spectacular four-lobed pink fruits that split to reveal vivid orange seeds in autumn. USDA zones 3–7
Spring crocus Crocus vernus – Cup-shaped purple, lilac or white spring bulb that opens in the first warm sun of the year. Critical pollen source for emerging queen bumblebees. USDA zones 3–8
Staghorn sumac Rhus typhina – Suckering eastern North American small tree with velvety young stems suggesting deer antlers, pinnate leaves turning brilliant orange and scarlet in autumn, and persistent red fuzzy fruit clusters through winter. USDA zones 3–8
Star magnolia Magnolia stellata – Slow-growing Japanese magnolia with masses of starry many-petalled fragrant white flowers on bare branches in earliest spring, before the leaves. The compact magnolia for small gardens. USDA zones 4–8
Star of Persia Allium christophii – Central Asian ornamental allium with enormous loose open umbels of metallic lilac-violet star-shaped flowers — each head 20 cm across — on short sturdy stems. Spectacular and self-seeding once established. USDA zones 4–8
Stonecrop (Ice plant) Hylotelephium spectabile – Clump-forming succulent perennial with fleshy grey-green leaves and broad flat heads of pink flowers in late summer that age to copper-bronze. USDA zones 3–9
Sweet box Sarcococca confusa – Glossy evergreen shrub with tiny white flowers of astonishing fragrance in deepest winter, followed by glossy black berries. The fragrance carries on cold still air to surprising distances. USDA zones 6–9
Sweet pittosporum Pittosporum undulatum – Eastern Australian native shrub or small tree with glossy wavy-edged leaves. Bark traditionally used by Aboriginal people; intensely fragrant spring flowers. USDA zones 8–11
Sweet violet Viola odorata – Low-growing ground cover with intensely fragrant deep-purple flowers in earliest spring. Flowers and leaves edible and medicinal. USDA zones 3–8
Sweet William Dianthus barbatus – Old cottage-garden biennial with dense flat heads of small fringed flowers in white, pink, red, or bicolours, with a sweet clove fragrance. Flowers in its second year at midsummer. USDA zones 3–9
Sweetgum ‘Worplesdon’ Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’ – Selected cultivar of the North American sweetgum, with deeply cut leaves and unusually reliable orange, red, and purple autumn colour even in cooler maritime climates where the species can be variable. USDA zones 5–9
Switchgrass Panicum virgatum – Tall North American prairie native ornamental grass forming strict upright clumps with airy panicles of tiny pink flowers in late summer that age to tan and hold their structure through winter. USDA zones 4–9
Tall stewartia Stewartia monadelpha – Slim upright Japanese stewartia with smaller flowers than S. pseudocamellia but particularly fine cinnamon-coloured smooth bark, and deep wine-red autumn colour. USDA zones 6–8
Teasel Dipsacus fullonum – Tall biennial with prickly stems and distinctive cone-shaped flower heads ringed by bands of mauve flowers in summer. Architectural seed heads persist into winter. USDA zones 3–8
Tibetan cherry Prunus serrula – Small ornamental cherry with polished mahogany-coloured bark that flakes in horizontal bands to reveal coppery new bark beneath. Grown almost entirely for the bark — the small white spring flowers are a minor feature. USDA zones 5–8
Toad lily Tricyrtis hirta – Japanese woodland perennial with arching stems carrying small star-shaped white flowers spotted purple — like miniature orchids — in mid-autumn. One of the last shade perennials to flower. USDA zones 4–8
Trout lily (Dogtooth violet) Erythronium americanum – Diminutive eastern North American spring ephemeral with mottled leaves and nodding pale yellow flowers, reflexing back like miniature turkscap lilies. USDA zones 3–8
Tulip tree (Yellow poplar) Liriodendron tulipifera – Fast-growing tall eastern North American tree with distinctive four-lobed leaves and tulip-shaped greenish-orange flowers high in the canopy. USDA zones 4–9
Two-leaf squill Scilla bifolia – Small bulb with star-shaped deep blue flowers held above just two strap-like leaves, opening with the snowdrops or shortly after in earliest spring. USDA zones 4–8
Valerian Valeriana officinalis – Tall perennial with frothy clusters of pale-pink scented flowers in early summer. Roots are the source of the traditional sleep herb. USDA zones 3–9
Virginia bluebells Mertensia virginica – Eastern North American spring ephemeral with pendant clusters of pink-budded sky-blue trumpet flowers above blue-green leaves. Whole plant disappears completely by midsummer. USDA zones 3–8
Waratah Telopea speciosissima – Iconic NSW shrub with leathery dark leaves and spectacular dome-shaped scarlet flower heads in spring. The floral emblem of New South Wales. USDA zones 8–10
Water forget-me-not Myosotis scorpioides – Spreading perennial pond-margin plant with masses of small sky-blue flowers with yellow eyes in early summer. A reliable native for any wildlife pond. USDA zones 3–8
White-stemmed bramble Rubus cockburnianus – Chinese bramble with arching stems heavily dusted in chalk-white bloom, particularly striking when leafless in winter. The bloom rubs off if handled. USDA zones 5–8
Willow — Pussy (Goat willow) Salix caprea – Smaller willow with silver catkins — the "pussy willow" of late winter. Same medicinal salicin content as white willow, on a more garden-friendly plant. USDA zones 4–8
Winter aconite Eranthis hyemalis – Low buttercup-yellow flower with a green leafy ruff, opening with the snowdrops in the depths of winter. Carpet-forming under deciduous trees. USDA zones 4–8
Winter daphne Daphne odora – Evergreen shrub with intensely fragrant pink-budded white flower clusters in late winter and early spring. One of the most powerfully scented winter-flowering shrubs. USDA zones 7–9
Winterberry holly Ilex verticillata – Deciduous North American holly grown specifically for the masses of brilliant scarlet berries that line the bare winter twigs after the leaves drop. Among the most striking winter berry displays of any temperate shrub. USDA zones 3–9
Wintersweet Chimonanthus praecox – Vigorous deciduous shrub with translucent pale yellow flowers carrying a powerful spicy fragrance, opening on bare branches in deepest winter. USDA zones 7–9
Witch hazel Hamamelis virginiana – Multi-stemmed understorey shrub or small tree. Bark and leaves are a powerful astringent — the active in commercial witch hazel toner. USDA zones 3–8
Witch hazel ‘Arnold Promise’ Hamamelis × intermedia ‘Arnold Promise’ – Hybrid witch hazel with spidery clear-yellow flowers on bare branches in late winter. One of the last late-winter cultivars to open — signals the very end of winter. USDA zones 5–8
Witch hazel ‘Diane’ Hamamelis × intermedia ‘Diane’ – Hybrid witch hazel with rich coppery-red flowers in mid-winter. The deepest-coloured of the commonly grown cultivars. USDA zones 5–8
Witch hazel ‘Jelena’ Hamamelis × intermedia ‘Jelena’ – Hybrid witch hazel with copper-orange spidery flowers in deepest winter. A classic mid-winter cultivar — one of the earliest to open. USDA zones 5–8
Witch hazel ‘Pallida’ Hamamelis × intermedia ‘Pallida’ – Hybrid witch hazel with pale sulphur-yellow spidery flowers in mid-winter. Often rated as the most fragrant and free-flowering of the cultivars. USDA zones 5–8
Wood anemone Anemone nemorosa – Carpet-forming native woodland perennial with starry white flowers (sometimes flushed pink) above deeply cut leaves in mid-spring. An indicator species of ancient British woodland. USDA zones 4–8
Woodland crocus (Tommies) Crocus tommasinianus – Slender lavender-purple crocus that naturalises into great sheets under deciduous trees. Among the earliest crocuses and notable for being largely ignored by squirrels. USDA zones 3–8
Yarrow Achillea millefolium – Resilient perennial with finely divided leaves and flat clusters of small flowers in midsummer. Native across both Europe and North America. USDA zones 2–9
Yellow rattle Rhinanthus minor – Slender annual semi-parasite of grass roots, with hooded yellow flowers and inflated seed capsules. The single most useful plant for establishing wildflower meadows. USDA zones 3–8
Yellow-twig dogwood Cornus sericea ‘Flaviramea’ – Selected cultivar of red osier dogwood with bright lime-yellow young winter stems instead of the species’ red. Used in mixed plantings with red-stemmed forms for striking winter colour contrast. USDA zones 2–7

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