Just because winter arrives doesn’t mean your landscape has to look dull. North Texas weather is unpredictable, but the right frost-tolerant plants can keep your yard looking vibrant through cold mornings and surprise freezes. From colorful seasonal plants to reliable evergreens, this guide covers smart plant choices that survive winter and add lasting visual appeal.
Ornamental Cabbage (Brassica oleracea)
Ornamental cabbage is one of the most reliable and visually striking cold-weather plants for North Texas landscapes. One of the experts at JC’s Landscaping explains:
“Ornamental cabbage is one of the easiest ways to add bold color and texture to your landscape during the cooler months. Known for its vibrant purple, pink, and creamy white centers, this cold-hardy plant thrives when most summer flowers fade—making it a favorite for fall and winter landscapes.”
Read the full ornamental cabbage plant care guide.
These plants actually improve in color after the first frost and tolerate freezing temperatures exceptionally well, making them ideal for flower beds, borders, and containers.
Pansies & Violas
Pansies and violas are classic winter annuals that handle frost with ease. They provide consistent blooms throughout winter and pair beautifully with ornamental cabbage for layered color.
Snapdragons
Snapdragons tolerate cold better than most flowering plants and often survive mild freezes. In protected areas, they may even rebloom in early spring.
Lenten Rose (Hellebore)
Hellebores are perennial, shade-tolerant plants that bloom in winter. They’re highly frost-resistant and perfect for shaded landscapes.
Winter Jasmine
This cold-hardy shrub offers bright yellow blooms during late winter and thrives in North Texas with minimal care.
Evergreen Shrubs
Boxwood, holly, and juniper provide year-round structure and color, even during freezes. These plants anchor winter landscapes and protect more delicate seasonal plants.
What Plants Will Survive Winter in a Container?
Many frost-tolerant plants thrive in containers when properly installed. Great container-friendly winter plants include:
- Ornamental cabbage and kale
- Pansies and violas
- Evergreen shrubs (dwarf varieties work best)
- Heuchera (coral bells)
- Winter grasses
Pro tip: Containers should have proper drainage and be positioned where roots are protected from harsh winds.
How to Care for Ornamental Cabbage
Sunlight Requirements
Ornamental cabbage performs best in full sun to partial shade. At least 4–6 hours of sunlight helps develop vibrant foliage color.
Watering Needs
Water regularly after planting to establish roots. Once established, keep soil consistently moist but never soggy.
Soil & Fertilization
Use well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting—avoid high nitrogen late in the season.
Temperature & Frost Tolerance
Cool temperatures enhance color. Ornamental cabbage tolerates light frosts easily and survives well below freezing.
Call to Action: Let JC’s Landscaping Handle It
Want bold winter color without the guesswork?
JC’s Landscaping specializes in landscape installations designed for North Texas weather. From ornamental cabbage displays to full seasonal refreshes, we handle everything—from soil preparation to professional layout—so your landscape looks great all winter long.
FAQ: Ornamental Cabbage
How do you care for ornamental cabbage?
Provide full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, and regular watering. Cool temperatures enhance color, and removing damaged outer leaves keeps plants looking fresh.
How often should I water ornamental cabbage?
Water when the top inch of soil is dry—typically once or twice per week depending on weather.
How long do decorative cabbage plants last?
Most last 3–5 months, from fall through late winter or early spring.
Can ornamental cabbage be a houseplant?
No. Ornamental cabbage requires cool temperatures and outdoor light; indoors, it quickly fades and becomes leggy.
JC’s Landscaping – North Texas Landscaping Experts
Address: 2770 Main St. Suite #260, Frisco, TX 75033
Phone: (972) 571-7899
Website: https://www.jclandscapingllc.com/
