Euonymus, bergenia and corokia pot display

The evergreens gathered in this pot make a pleasing if understated contribution at any time of year, but the winter cold causes their foliage to dramatically change colour. The bergenia leaves turn a deep red, while the tips of the false cypress take on a burnished bronze hue, and the euonymus’s yellow-variegated foliage develops a reddish-pink flush. The corokia is more consistent in its colouring, but its wiry habit and drought tolerance make it ideal for living in a large container indefinitely.

Pot and plants combined emanate a warmth that is intensified on brilliant sunny winter days, and they should glow for weeks. For best results site this brilliantly-coloured gathering where they get as much sun and winter warmth as possible. They’ll be especially effective set against red brick or other evergreens.

You Will Need

• Euonymus fortunei
• Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Gitte'
• Corokia x virgata ‘Sunsplash’
• Bergenia ‘Bressingham Ruby’
• 44cm square tub
• 1:1 mix of peat-free, multi- purpose compost and loam-based compost

Step 1

Half fill the pot with compost. Ensure the holes in the bottom are sufficient to allow excess water to drain away.

Step 2

Still in their plastic pots, position the plants to check how they will fit. Once happy, carefully tap the largest plant from its pot and pop in place.

Step 3

Plant fairly densely for instant effect. Use short and trailing plants towards the rim and fill in with more

Step 4

Water well to settle compost around the roots. Although pots require less water in winter, they may still dry out, so check them a couple of times a week.