February in the Pacific Northwest still brings winter’s chill, but signs of spring begin to emerge. For gardeners looking to add color and interest during these gray days, early-blooming plants provide an easy solution. These vibrant selections brighten landscapes while supporting pollinators as they emerge from winter rest.
Now is the perfect time to plant and prepare for a stunning early-season display. Frontier Landscaping offers expert guidance in selecting hardy plants that thrive in cool temperatures. These February favorites will bring charm and life to any garden, setting the stage for a colorful transition into spring.
1. Hellebores – A Classic for Late Winter Color
Hellebores, also called “Lenten Roses,” produce long-lasting blooms in shades of white, pink, and deep plum. Their evergreen foliage keeps landscapes looking lush year-round, making them a reliable choice for shady gardens. Popular varieties like ‘Royal Heritage’ and ‘Anna’s Red’ provide striking early-season color.
Growing Tips
- Light: Partial shade
- Soil: Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil
- Height: 18–24 inches
2. Winter Heath – A Low-Maintenance Winter Bloomer
Winter heath stands out with bell-shaped flowers that last from late winter into early spring. This evergreen shrub thrives in well-drained soil and brings bold pink, white, or red blooms to brighten the colder months. Early pollinators also rely on its nectar when other food sources remain scarce.
Growing Tips
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-drained soil
- Height: 1.5–3 feet
3. Camellias – Evergreen Elegance with Bold Blooms
Japanese camellias produce glossy, deep-green foliage and spectacular flowers in pink, red, and white. Blooming in late winter and early spring, they provide structure and year-round interest in any landscape. These shrubs thrive in the Pacific Northwest’s cool, wet climate.
Growing Tips
- Light: Part shade with afternoon sun protection
- Soil: Acidic, well-drained soil
- Height: 6–12 feet
4. Crocuses – Small Blooms with a Big Impact
Crocuses often push through the last patches of snow to reveal bright purple, yellow, and white flowers. These compact bulbs look stunning along pathways, beneath trees, or in garden borders. They naturalize well, returning year after year with minimal care.
Growing Tips
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-drained soil
- Height: 3–6 inches
5. Flowering Quince – Early Blooms on Bare Branches
Flowering quince produces coral, pink, or red blossoms before its leaves emerge. This drought-tolerant shrub thrives in the Pacific Northwest and creates an eye-catching display in early spring. Its strong branches also make it a popular choice for garden borders.
Growing Tips
- Light: Full sun to part shade
- Soil: Well-drained soil
- Height: 3–10 feet
6. Primroses – Bright Colors for Cool Weather
Primroses bring pops of red, yellow, and purple to garden beds and containers. These cool-season bloomers thrive in the damp, mild climate of the Pacific Northwest. Their compact size makes them perfect for adding color to walkways, rock gardens, or window boxes.
Growing Tips
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Moist but well-drained soil
- Height: 3–6 inches
7. Witch Hazel – Fragrant Blooms in the Cold
Witch hazel stands out with spidery yellow or orange flowers that appear on bare branches in late winter. Its fragrant blooms add interest when little else is in bloom. This hardy shrub thrives in damp conditions and pairs well with other early-season plants.
Growing Tips
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Moist but well-drained soil
- Height: 10–20 feet
8. Hardy Cyclamen – A Woodland Garden Favorite
Hardy cyclamen produces delicate pink or white blooms that rise above heart-shaped leaves. This perennial thrives in shady spots and pairs beautifully with ferns and hellebores for a natural, woodland-inspired garden.
Growing Tips
- Light: Part shade (avoid direct afternoon sun)
- Soil: Well-drained soil rich in organic matter
- Height: 3–6 inches
Plant Now for a Vibrant Spring Garden
By selecting early-blooming plants, you can bring color, texture, and life to outdoor spaces before spring arrives. These resilient choices brighten gardens while supporting pollinators and creating a seamless seasonal transition.
Frontier Landscaping helps homeowners select and plant varieties that thrive in the Pacific Northwest. Get started today and create an early-season garden filled with vibrant blooms—schedule a consultation to explore planting options now!
