As a garden enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of bringing a touch of the exotic into my outdoor space. While many of these plants have traditionally only been suited for containers, with the right care and a little extra protection, I’ve found that it’s possible to grow cold-hardy exotics right in the garden. With the warming climate, more and more of these beautiful plants are becoming a viable option for gardeners like me. In this guide, I’ll share what I’ve learned about growing cold-hardy exotics and how you can make them thrive in your garden, even during the winter months.
In mild regions, cold-hardy exotic plants have long been able to survive the winter outdoors. With the right protection, planting them is worth a try in many gardens.
The dream of the South has long earned cold-hardy exotic plants a place in our gardens. Until now, they were mostly grown in containers in many regions. But with climate change, the idea of planting these exotic beauties directly into the garden is becoming more realistic. Winters are generally becoming milder, and prolonged periods of severe frost are becoming rarer.
In wine-growing climates, fig trees (Ficus carica) can survive the winter outdoors without any protection and produce plenty of fruit. A similar microclimate can often be found in front of a warm house wall. With a cold-hardy variety like ‘Violetta’ (also known as the “Bavarian Fig”), it’s worth trying in other regions too. In harsh winters, the plant may die back significantly, but it will sprout again in spring. However, fruit production may not be successful that year.
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The Perfect Location for Cold-Hardy Exotics
A small sensation is bananas overwintering in the bed. In microclimatically favorable locations, this can succeed with the fiber banana (Musa basjoo). However, ripe fruit cannot be harvested here. In autumn, the hardiest banana of its kind is cut back to 50 centimeters. In places with good water drainage and thick protection, the rootstock is safeguarded from freezing, so the perennial will sprout again the following year.
Exotic in appearance, the pink stamens of the tree known as the silk tree (Albizia) stand out. In the evening, the leaves fold mimosa-like into a sleep position. Although this frost-sensitive tree is usually known as a potted plant, there are always examples successfully cultivated outdoors. What it does not tolerate are strong temperature fluctuations.
The variety determines how cold-hardy a camellia is. Specialty nurseries offer hardy camellias like ‘Jean Clere’ (Camellia japonica) or ‘Anticipation’ (C. x williamsii, see image), which can overwinter outdoors in our regions if planted in a sheltered, semi-shaded spot. Protect the roots with a 20 cm thick layer of leaves or mulch. When planted outdoors, camellias bloom a bit later than their greenhouse counterparts, usually from April. If late frosts threaten, a fleece cover prevents the buds from freezing.
In its native habitat in the Himalayas, the hemp palm (Trachycarpus) grows at an altitude of 2,500 meters. Snowy winters are not a problem. The more dangerous factors are thaw frost and winter moisture. Therefore, the heart at the base of the stem must be protected: tie the leaves loosely in several places with rope. In mild winters, a protection made of reed mats is enough. Cover the frost-sensitive root area with bark mulch.
The fronds of the warm-loving pampas grass (Cortaderia) not only look pretty, but they also form excellent protection. To protect the delicate heart of the grass tuft from moisture, bind the clumps together like an Indian teepee.\
The most sensitive part is the root system. A thick layer of leaves insulates it from frost and helps keep moisture out. To prevent waterlogging, the soil must be well-drained.
Poncirus trifoliata: Hardy Citrus Relative
Closely related to lemons and oranges, this citrus plant tolerates several degrees below freezing. The hardiness of Poncirus trifoliata (also known as the trifoliate orange) improves with age! Mature plants can withstand temperatures down to minus 20°C (-4°F) without serious damage. Young plants, however, need good protection and must be kept away from waterlogged conditions. The fruits are edible but very sour.
Only Use Heavy Winter Protection During Prolonged Frost
Above ground, it’s important to adjust your “winter wrapping” to match the temperatures. For mild frost, fleece fabrics, coconut mats, straw, or reed mats are often sufficient. Heavier winter protection like bubble wrap should only be applied on the coldest days or during prolonged frost. This is because such protection acts like a greenhouse. Without enough ventilation, fungal diseases can spread, and the plant may rot.
To some extent, cold hardiness can be trained: older and well-established plants are more frost-resistant than young ones. In many cases—like with camellias and rockroses—there are varieties better suited to outdoor conditions. Ask your local nursery for advice. Plants that have been grown in your region are generally better adapted to local climate conditions than imports.
Exotics in Pots Need Winter Protection
In containers, the root ball freezes much faster than when planted in the ground. That’s why potted plants should always be insulated for the winter. Bubble wrap and coconut mats help balance strong temperature fluctuations. A Styrofoam board insulates from below. Only put on the winter protection hood when frost is expected, and remove it during mild periods. Don’t forget to water the plant during these times!
Growing cold-hardy exotics has been an exciting journey for me, and I hope this guide has given you the confidence to try it in your own garden. With the right protection and a little care, these unique plants can not only survive but also flourish in your outdoor space, bringing a touch of the exotic right to your doorstep. Every season brings new challenges, but also rewards, and I’m excited to see how my exotics continue to grow. I wish you the best of luck in your gardening adventures and hope you enjoy the beauty these plants can bring to your home.
