22 Winter Flowers That Thrive During the Coldest Months of the Year

Pieris japonica (Lily-of-the-Valley shrub): Any plant with japonica (or japonicus) in its name means it comes from Japan, as does this splendid shrub. And where a plant is from can tell you a lot about its needs. For one thing, this plant prefers the cooler regions of Australia, as it's not particularly drought tolerant. Pieris japonica's most used common name, Lily-of-the-Valley shrub refers to the urn-shaped flowers that resemble those of the bulb of the same name. These flowers are undoubtedly the highlight of the plant, dangling as they do in masses from long elegant tassels. It also has the added advantage of flowering in winter and early spring, when there is little else happening in many gardens, adding to its appeal as a dramatic feature plant.