As the days grow shorter, the light diminishes in intensity, leading us to a transition from the outdoorsiness of summer to the contemplation of winter. As we redesign goals and life rhythms, so we can renew our garden or balcony. Simultaneously with the arrival of autumn, a new plant palette unfolds. Hardy, impressive, and full of energy, plants prove that there is no need to ‘put the garden to sleep’. Instead, we can transform it into an autumnal setting full of character.

Here are 5+1 plant choices for fall plantings that will keep the interest in your garden or balcony alive into the winter.

1. Nandina (Nandina domestica)

Family: Berberidaceae
For color all year round
An evergreen, rounded shrub whose foliage takes on fiery shades of red and orange in autumn. Its red berries last for months, adding vibrant touches to your garden. Ideal for flower beds and pots.
Cultivation tip: Grows best in sunny or semi-shaded spots and tolerates poor soils, provided they are well-drained.

2. Ornamental Cabbage (Brassica oleracea)

Family: Brassicaceae
For a striking visual effect
An ornamental vegetable with pink, purple, and cream-colored leaves that change hue as temperatures drop. It creates an ever-changing, artistic autumn display.
Cultivation tip: Requires sun and rich soil. Can be planted in pot arrangements for instant decorative impact. Prefers cool temperatures and tolerates frost.

3. Small-flowered Pansy (Viola × wittrockiana)

Family: Violaceae
For a seasonal burst of color
Together with cyclamen, pansies are classic autumn plants, their blooms reminiscent of old-fashioned painted florals. Among the first to brighten your space, even as small potted plants on your tables. Available in countless color combinations, from vivid yellows and purples to elegant bicolors, with the blue–purple–yellow variety stealing the show.
Cultivation tip: Thrives in sunny spots and requires regular watering. Removing wilted blooms prolongs the flowering period.

4. Japanese Blood Grass “Red Baron” (Imperata cylindrica ‘Red Baron’)

Family: Poaceae
For distinctive texture and backdrop
What could be better than an ornamental grass with leaves that turn a deep red in autumn, adding movement and drama to your space? Plant it as a border or as a tall element in containers to keep that carefree summer feeling alive through fall.
Cultivation tip: Loves sunlight, needs light and well-drained soil, and pairs beautifully with low shrubs or pansies.

5. Heuchera “Obsidian” (Heuchera Obsidian)

Family: Saxifragaceae
For contrast and depth
Its velvety, almost black foliage creates a striking contrast next to bright blooms. It adds a touch of drama and luxury wherever it’s planted.
Cultivation tip: Thrives in semi-shaded areas with rich, organic soil. Needs protection from excessive dryness.

6. Purple Sage (Salvia officinalis “Purpurascens” / “Purpurea”)

Family: Lamiaceae
For fragrance and character
No autumn arrangement would be complete without this variety of sage. A perennial plant with silvery-green and purple velvety leaves, it offers not only ornamental beauty but also aromatic, culinary, and medicinal uses.
Cultivation tip: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil with no special requirements. Drought-tolerant and pairs perfectly with Mediterranean herbs and seasonal plants.

Autumn is a season of creative new beginnings.
Just like in life, in the garden too, transitions become more beautiful when we embrace them with color and fragrance.