Leucadendron (e.g. ‘Safari Sunset’, ‘Gypsy Red’)
Leucadendrons are a standout choice for winter colour. With their striking stems and changing tones—from deep green to burgundy and bronze—they bring structure and drama even in the colder months. Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, they do best in a sunny spot and look just as good fresh as they do dried, making them a favourite for cutting gardens too.
Best in: An 87 Degrees pot—its clean, organic form complements the natural structure of Leucadendron without competing for attention. Try Iron to echo the plant’s rich tones, or Dune for a soft, earthy contrast. Perfect for patios, entryways, or anywhere that needs a hit of winter warmth.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Snake plants are virtually indestructible and do well in lower light conditions, making them perfect for winter months when natural sunlight is limited. They also purify the air, which is a bonus during the dry, indoor winter air.
Best in: The 86 Degrees pot complements the clean lines and upright form of the snake plant, adding elegance without overwhelming the plant’s simple.
Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
With its broad, sculptural leaves and upright form, the Fiddle Leaf Fig adds instant drama to interior spaces. Even in winter, when growth slows, it holds its bold silhouette and deep green colour, making it a go-to for adding life and structure indoors. Perfect for living rooms, entryways, or home offices that need a lift during the cooler months.
Best in: The 90 Degrees Tall pot, designed to echo the plant’s vertical form. Its narrow footprint makes it ideal for indoor corners or beside furniture, while the height gives the fiddle leaf room to rise without overwhelming the space.
Japanese Yew (Podocarpus macrophyllus)
This evergreen is known for its deep green, needle-like foliage and naturally tidy form. It grows slowly and holds its shape beautifully, making it a great choice for outdoor spaces during the cooler months. In winter, its rich colour and dense texture offer a sense of quiet formality and calm — ideal for minimalist or architectural interiors.
Best in: An 87 Degrees pot, which enhances the plant’s upright silhouette with its wide base and tapered form. The 87 Degrees adds visual weight and presence without distraction — perfect for entryways, terraces, or as a sculptural piece near large windows.
Aloes
Aloes are sculptural, low-maintenance, and surprisingly cold-tolerant—especially in pots. Their fleshy grey-green foliage holds form through winter, and many varieties bloom with upright spikes of warm orange or red just when your garden needs it most. Great for adding structure and colour without much fuss.
Best in: Showcase Aloes in a 92 Degrees or 87 Degrees pot to echo their strong lines. The contrast between a soft-toned pot (think Salt or Clay) and the bold plant form makes for a striking winter combination—beautiful on patios or nestled among other potted specimens.
Final Tips for Winter Plant Styling
- Light: Look for sheltered outdoor spots that still receive bright, indirect light, especially north-facing exposures.
- Water: Less is more. Let the top layer of soil dry before watering again.
- Microclimates: Group plants together or tuck them into courtyards and alcoves to shield them from wind and frost.
Even in the cooler months, your spaces don’t need to lose their spark. With the right mix of winter-hardy plants (some suited to indoors, others to the garden) and thoughtfully chosen pots, winter becomes a chance to re-style and refresh. Whether you’re adding soft contrast to a living room corner or bold structure to an entryway, each pairing brings shape, texture, and quiet presence, proof that great planting design isn’t just for summer.