Winter Bloomers like this helleborous niger, Potter's Wheel are such pretty sights in late December. Even with a cover of snow, they continue to bloom until spring. These plants are also an important source of nectar for early-emerging bees in spring. We got this one at Trader Joe's about 11 years ago and it has bloomed every year since then!

We are a proud supporter of the National Wildlife Federation and their ongoing mission to help homeowners bring beneficial plants into their yards to help support biodiversity. If you purchase plants through their website, we earn a small percentage as an affiliate. Visit their website and get started on growing your own pollinator paradise!

Leaving seed heads in winter provides essential food for birds and shelter for insects, and adds visual interest to your yard. This practice creates a habitat for native bees and other beneficial insects to overwinter in the hollow stems and provides a vital food source for seed-eating birds like finches and chickadees when other food is scarce.