Top 5... Pots of colour
Add seasonal spice to Christmas containers using winter plants that pack a real punch
1 Nandina domestica ‘Firepower’
Classy, multi-stemmed, compact, evergreen shrub with sprays of narrow leaves. Foliage turns bright red from autumn and throughout winter. White summer flowers produce autumnal red berries. H: 45cm (18in), S: 60cm (24in).
Tip Performs best if sited in sun and given shelter.
From www.crocus.co.uk; tel: 01344 578111.
2 Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’
Feature shrub of open habit and glowing red and gold stems. Any moist, well-drained conditions in sun or semishade. If keeping in a pot prune to keep it more compact. H/S: 2m (6ft 6in). Tip When established, prune out old stems to encourage new growth. From www.crocus.co.uk; tel: 01344 578 111.
3 Pinus mugo ‘Ophir’
Dwarf, slow-growing, compact pine. Pale yellow needles turn deep yellow in winter. Moist, well-drained conditions in sun. H/S: 90cm (3ft). Tip Ideal for positioning in sunny, exposed, windy sites. From www. coolingsonline.co.uk; tel: 0800 612 2643.
4 Erica darleyensis ‘Silberschmelze’
Reliable, robust heather, flowering from December to May. Prefers well-drained, acid conditions but will tolerate some lime. Sun or partial shade. H: 35cm (13½in), S: 45cm (30in).
Tip Shear off spent shoots after flowering to keep this plant compact.
From www.ashwoodnurseries.com; tel: 01384 401996.
5 Helleborus niger ‘Christmas Carol’
Charming white flowers with prominent yellow stamens nestle among dark evergreen leaves from December. Likes moist, but not constantly wet, conditions in semi-shade. H: 30cm (12in), S: 45cm (18in).
Tip Ideal for using in containers placed in shady positions.
From www.thompson-morgan.com; tel: 0844 573 1818.