4 Evergreen and Winter-Hardy Plants for Gardens and Balconies

September 12, 2025, 8:40 am | Read time: 3 minutes

In winter, gardens often appear bleak due to the lack of greenery. Evergreen and hardy plants can remedy this, as they retain their foliage, do not wither, and bring vitality even in the cold season. myHOMEBOOK gardening expert Franka Kruse-Gering introduces four suitable plants for gardens and balconies.

What Are Evergreen Plants?

In botany, plants are described as evergreen if they remain green throughout the year. When the cold season begins, many plants lose leaves and other above-ground parts. Evergreen and hardy plants persist and add a touch of vitality to the garden even in the dark months.

1. Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus)

Cherry laurel is a popular hedge plant, even though its fruits and especially the seeds are toxic

Cherry laurel is a popular, evergreen, and hardy plant. It grows quickly and densely, making it ideal for hedges. Additionally, it requires little maintenance, making it perfect for gardening beginners.

It is important to note that cherry laurel is toxic. The leaves and fruit flesh are mildly toxic, while the seeds inside the fruits are highly toxic and can cause respiratory and circulatory failure if ingested. Birds, however, use cherry laurel as a food source. Through their droppings, they spread the seeds, and the non-native plant is now found in the wild.

2. Rhododendron (Rhododendron)

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The rhododendron is not only predominantly evergreen and hardy but also brings beautiful colors to the garden from spring onwards. With its lush blooms, it becomes a focal point. Different varieties of rhododendron have varying bloom times. By combining different plants, you can extend the color display in your garden.

Caring for a rhododendron is not complicated, but you should pay attention to the right location. The wrong spot can lead to diseases. Rhododendrons thrive best in semi-shaded areas.

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3. Ivy (Hedera helix)

Ivy needs to be trimmed regularly to prevent it from growing too tall and wide

Ivy is also among the evergreen and hardy plants. It has another advantage. As a fast-growing climber, it can hide unsightly walls or fences. Ivy also offers a pleasing view when it covers garden sheds.

Ivy is not particularly demanding, but it should not be completely ignored. Generally, it does not need watering, nor is fertilizer necessary. Since ivy grows vigorously, it should be pruned regularly.

By the way: Choosing ivy for your garden benefits not only you and your garden but also the bird world. Birds use the dense weave for nesting.

4. Creeping Mazus (Mazus reptans)

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This evergreen and hardy plant is an easy-care ground cover. Creeping mazus loves the sun and can handle dry periods well. However, you should not completely forgo watering. The special feature of this plant is that its flowers resemble small butterflies, appearing from May to June.

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of MYHOMEBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@myhomebook.de.