Even when temperatures drop, Florida gardeners can still enjoy a bright burst of color in their beds and containers. Winter in Florida often brings mild days and crisp nights; a perfect setting for certain red-blooming favorites. If you’re ready to add warmth and energy to your winter landscape, here are four dazzling red plants that thrive in our local climate.
1. Red Pentas — The Butterfly Magnet
Known for their clusters of star-shaped blooms, Red Pentas (Pentas lanceolata) are a must for any Florida garden.
- Why they shine in winter: In Jacksonville’s mild winter, they continue to bloom in full sun and well-drained soil when other flowers fade.
- Best features: They’re pollinator-friendly — butterflies, especially monarchs and swallowtails, can’t resist them.
- GardenistaJax tip: Deadhead regularly to encourage continuous blooms and keep plants tidy.
2. Red Pansies — The Cool-Season Classic
When temperatures cool, pansies step into the spotlight.
- Why they shine in winter: Pansies thrive in the cooler months, delivering dependable color all season long.
- Best features: Their velvety petals and subtle fragrance add a lovely touch to borders and hanging baskets.
- GardenistaJax tip: Plant them in partial sun and fertilize lightly every few weeks — they’ll reward you with cheerful color until spring.
3. Red Dianthus — Compact and Charming
Compact, fragrant, and endlessly cheerful, Red Dianthus are perfect for edging and containers.
- Why they shine in winter: Dianthus thrives in Jacksonville’s cooler temperatures and adapts easily to sandy soil.
- Best features: Their ruffled blooms add texture, while their spicy scent attracts visitors of the winged variety.
- GardenistaJax tip: Trim spent blooms to keep these low growers blooming into early spring.
4. Red Snapdragons — The Winter Thriller
Every container needs its “thriller” — that tall, attention-grabbing star. Red Snapdragons rise above the rest with their rich towers of color.
- Why they shine in winter: Cooler air keeps snapdragons happy and standing tall through most of the season.
- Best features: Their vertical form adds structure and drama to garden beds and pots, creating height against lower-growing companions.
- GardenistaJax tip: Plant in clusters for a bold statement. Snapdragons pair beautifully with the softer mounds of pentas or pansies.
GardenistaJax Design Tip: Create a Bold Red Winter Mix
Combine Pentas and Pansies near the front, nestle Dianthus in between for fragrance and color consistency, and finish with Snapdragons in the back or center for height. The result? A balanced, fiery display that turns your Florida garden into a winter showpiece.
Ready to plant?
The best time to set these beauties in the ground is early winter, when the soil is cool but not cold. With a little planning, you’ll have color from December through early spring — no frost blues required.
Ready to Bring Color to Your Yard?
Don’t want to get your hands dirty this winter? Let GardenistaJax transform your space! We can design and install a vibrant red winter garden, from your flower beds to entryway planters. All customized for Florida’s unique climate.
Call or message GardenistaJax today to schedule your winter planting and enjoy bright, blooming beauty all season long.
Serving Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra Beach, Jacksonville Beach, and surrounding Florida communities.