IN THE GARDEN
Gaultheria mucronata is an evergreen shrub grown for its glossy, dark green leaves and attractive berries ranging in colour from white to deep purple. The white berries of this Gaultheria mucronata are occasionally speckled with pink.
Growing to a height and spread of 1.2m (4ft), it prefers free-draining, acidic soil, so use ericaceous compost if planting in a pot, and position in partial to full shade. If it gets too big for its current location, the plant can be cut back in late spring.
A superb winter shrub with flower panicles of deep pink or red in spring, followed by brilliant red berries in winter adorning dark, evergreen foliage. Skimmia japonica is a great choice for a shady spot.
Compact varieties reach a height and spread of 1m (3ft) and can be propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
Commonly known as Coral Bells, heuchera makes low mounts of semi-evergreen, frilly foliage in a range of colours which make a striking addition to borders and containers. A great pick for a partially shady area, heuchera is an easy to grow, low maintenance, ground cover plant which throws up pretty flower spikes in summer.
With a wide colour palette, ‘Marmalade' is a variety to try with its warming bronze and pink leaves. For darker leaves try 'Black Pearl', whilst 'Sugar Frosting' looks gorgeously festive with red-tinged leaves.
Providing seasonal colour throughout winter which intensifies after the first frosts, decorative ornamental cabbage with its ruffled leaves comes in welcoming vibrant pinks and purples.
Ornamental cabbage is slow-growing so can be planted close together, in odd numbered quantities to create an attractive design. Leaves can turn yellow in very wet spells, so ensure that it is grown in free-draining compost, in full sun to partial shade.
This slow-growing, evergreen ivy does not climb but instead produces upright shoots with deep green, arrowhead leaves in two rows. It is an easy to grow, non-flowering ivy which will tolerate a range of soils, only growing to 1m (3ft) tall, it is perfect to add structural interest to a container.