We just planted them a month ago, but some of the Sparkleberries (Ilex verticillata) are holding their berries and looking so bright and festive. And some of the Miscanthus grasses — also just planted – are holding their seed heads. The combination is exactly what I was hoping for: a lovely winter effect that doesn’t just rely on evergreens.
They’re all quite small still, and don’t give the full effect. But I could not be happier. Well, I could be happier if it would snow. Then the red berries and white plumes would be even more wonderful; the contrast of bright red and white will be especially festive in the snow. If it ever snows!