What’s in Bloom? November at RBG

What Blooms in November?

Note: this is a general guide of what typically blooms this month at RBG. Bloom periods may vary by up to 2 weeks. For the best view of what’s blooming right now at RBG, see the current photos on RBG’s Instagram, or find the “Bloom Watch” section on the What’s in Bloom page.

We’re nearing the end of a fantastic season of bright fall foliage enriched with deep red, orange, and golden hues. November is the perfect time to grab a warm beverage from the Teahouse, explore the winding garden pathways and listen to the crunch of fall leaves underfoot. Many blooms have finished for the season, but around every corner there is still plenty of plant interest to enjoy!

At the Arboretum, fall colours make their finale. Despite November winds oak trees remain in peak colour during the first two weeks of November in brilliant shades of orange and red. The Synoptic Shrub Collection is not to be missed with seasonal shrubs with colourful fruit such as Dwarf Burning Bush and Deciduous Holly Winterberry.

Witch-hazel, a native forest understory shrub species is among the most common species in the oak dominated forests of RBG’s nature sanctuaries with the yellow flowers quite distinctive against the forest setting.

Pictured, left to right: Witch-hazel, Oak Tree, Dwarf Burning Bush, Deciduous Holly Winterberry

Deep within the lower bowl of the Rock Garden you’ll find stunning Japanese and Korean Maples showcasing brilliant red and orange ombré leaves. Willowleaf Sunflower brings golden delight and continues to impress as a cold-hardy perennial. Keep an eye out for Blue Holly – an evergreen hybrid holly with attractive clusters of deep red berries, you’ll can why it is popular for winter holiday décor!

Pictured, left to right: Strawberry Tree, Rock Garden, Willowleaf Sunflower, Monkshood, Korean Maple Tree

Look up! Look up to the canopy of the Mediterranean Garden to see Strawberry Tree blooming with clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers. This indoor garden blooms through the winter, creating an ideal escape from the cold. This month, you’ll find Cape Trumpet Flower, Bird of Paradise, Lantanas, and many more plants in bloom. Winter is citrus season in the Mediterranean Garden and you’ll surely be able to smell the sweet delicate blooms and fruits!

Over in Hendrie Park, the Rose Garden is well past its peak though pops of colour continue to delight against the deep shades of orange and red from the surrounding trees. While most blooms have finished for the season, Monkshood stands out along Oak Allée. Ornamental grasses can really pack a punch this time of year. Contrasting textures and shapes create interest throughout the fall into the winter!

Laking Garden is now closed for the season. We eagerly await its spring reopening!

November Favourites

Plants of Interest in November at RBG

• Monkshood
• Beautyberry
• Snowberry
• Holly
• Witch Hazel
• Cape trumpet flower (Mediterranean Garden)
• Strawberry tree (Mediterranean Garden)
• Citrus trees (Mediterranean Garden)
• Christmas cactus (Mediterranean Garden)
• Euphorbia sp. (Mediterranean Garden)