A couple of super-simple winter containers that I did recently for a client are shown in the photos below. Both are dominated by structural evergreen plants of varying foliage colors and textures accented by reliable winter bloomers.
This star of this container is the ubiquitous Yuletide camellia (Camellia sasanqua 'Yuletide'). Though common, it still pleases me to no end to see it blooming its heart out all winter. I especially like it in combination with the Yucca filamentosa 'Golden Sword' which shines like a beacon; brightening this ensemble on dreary winter days. Also included is a purple-leaved Heuchera 'Frosted Violet', Helleborus x ballardiae 'HGC Pink Frost' which will bloom later in spring, and blue fescue with its evergreen blue tuft contributing textural contrast.
This container is in a sheltered but very shady, bordering on dark, spot at a covered front entry. The bright variegation of the Carex morrowii 'Evergold' acts like a footlight for the boldly textured Schefflera taiwaniana 'Yuan Shan.' The bright, shiny faces of the Helleborus niger 'HGC Jacob' blooms add further sparkle.
