7 winter plants that can survive snow and extreme cold (Gardeners swear by them!)

Gardening is not an easy task and not everyone’s domain too. Especially for those who live in extreme cold places. When the temperatures drop and frost settles in, several home plants in gardens go lifeless. However, it is a good thing that there are some plants that quietly thrive through the harshest winter conditions and still look beautiful. These winter-friendly plants are the best gifts of nature to humans as they bring much-needed hope and light in their life.

Let’s have a look at seven strong plants that can survive harsh winters.

Winterberry holly is one of the very famous winter plants. The beautiful bright red berries stay on snow-covered branches long after the leaves have fallen and gone. The plant thrives in freezing temperatures and adds a much-needed hint of hue to winter. It thrives harsh winters because it naturally enters a deep dormancy and stores energy in its roots.

Pansies are extremely pretty and look delicate. However, it is a tough plant that can survive light snow. The best thing about this is that the flowers even bloom during milder winter days. Their petals and leaves have special sugars which help them in keeping safe from frost damage.

Hellebores or Christmas Rose are iconic winter bloomers! They can flower in freezing temperatures. These are so strong that they even push through snow to bloom. What helps them in surviving harsh winters is their thick and leathery leaves. It protects the buds and the plant.

Boxwood, a shrub, can stay green all year long. It can fight harsh winds and snow and still remain beautiful. They are commonly used for hedges and winter structure in gardens. Their waxy leaves prevent water loss, and protect branches from getting frozen!

Snowdrops are one of the first flowers to bloom in harsh winters. These pretty little full of hope tiny white flowers can survive under snow. They appear as the ground gets warm. They produce a natural “antifreeze protein” which saves them from being frosty.

Conifers are evergreen and are also known as the symbols of winter survival. They have needle-like leaves that reduce water loss, and their cone shape helps snow slide off without harming branches. They have strong flexible branches which allows them to withstand heavy snow.

Sedum is probably one of the most famous winter plants which is known for its tough, and low-maintenance features. The plant can survive extreme cold and drought too. Even when its flowers fade, the dried seed heads add beauty to the gardens. Sedums survive such winter conditions because they store water in their thick leaves.