January Beauties

It has been bloody cold this January in Blacksburg, Virginia. However, even with the unforgiving weather, there are still some plants that look wonderful this time of year. So, there is no excuse for not visiting Hahn Horticulture Garden when it is cold, or any public garden for that matter, because you will always see something shining:)

Probably my favorite plant doin' its thang
right now is Mahonia aquifolium, Oregon grape-holly. Its lustrous leaves turn a beautiful burgundy about this time of year and it is stunning! A very underrated plant in my opinion.












Most evergreens look nice this time of year anyways but Platycladus (Thuja) orientalis 'Aurea Nana' is looking especially nice, taking on a beautiful burnt orange color. A nice winter surprise!





The always lovely Nandina domestica is in its full-berry glory right now. Even with all the new, fun stuff on the market, don't forget about the classics!




And, keep your eyes out for grasses this time of year. Many retain their vertical form throughout the winter and take on lovely, wheat-y colors. Check out the photos of Panicum virgatum 'Nortwind' and Schizachyrium scoparium 'The Blues' below.












And one more thing, don't forget to appreciate the structure and bark of many wonderful deciduous plants. And, as our woody plants curator, Dr. Alex Niemiera, would suggest, don't be afraid to stroke the bark of any sexy tree you see!

Enjoy the winter people. There is beauty in every season.