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Winter
The Quiet of Winter
January 7 – March 31
More than a spring or summer affair, with Vancouver Island’s temperate climate, The Gardens have something to offer year-round. Enjoy the solitude winter brings, and take in the subtle beauty of our shrubs, trees, and flowers, from delicate snowdrops to lush hellebore.
Spring Prelude
From mid-January to mid-March, The Blue Poppy Restaurant is transformed into a wonderful indoor spring display with paths lined by flowering shrubs, trees, and thousands of bulbs.
Historical Display
Visit the Historical Display, a retrospective from the days of Robert and Jennie Butchart, Ian and Ann-Lee Ross, and their son Christopher. Each of them had a passion for the Gardens and provided a legacy of hospitality, welcoming visitors from around the world. Opening February 4, 2025.
Peaceful Gardens
At The Gardens, winter is in two takes: late October through November and late January through March. In the first half, we prepare for winter – and our beloved Christmas display. Greenhouse activity never seems to slow as we move out thousands of Poinsettias for Christmas décor. After Christmas, the garden sleeps while we tend to any alterations or upgrades of the landscape.
Winter Favourites
Crocus
Varieties bloom winter through early spring.
Perennial
Erica carnea
Heather.
Evergreen small shrub.
Varieties bloom winter through spring.
Shrub
Hamamelis x intermedia
Witch hazel.
Deciduous shrub.
Fragrant blooms mid-winter.
Shrub
Helleborus
Hellebore, Christmas rose.
Attractive winter/early spring flowers.
Perennial