Growli

Overwintering guide

How to overwinter trailing elephant bush

Verdict
Keep frost-free
When
Move under cover before the first hard frost; back outside after the last spring frost.
Hardiness
Trailing Elephant Bush is hardy to roughly USDA zone 9 — winter lows around -7°C. That means it takes cool conditions but not a real freeze.

Winter watering

Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.

The mistake that kills trailing elephant bush in winter

Bringing trailing elephant bush into a warm living room. Too much winter warmth forces weak, pale growth that collapses when it goes back outside — cool and bright beats warm and dim.

More trailing elephant bush care

Overwintering trailing elephant bush — FAQ

Does trailing elephant bush need to come indoors for winter?

Trailing Elephant Bush is hardy to roughly USDA zone 9 — winter lows around -7°C. That means it takes cool conditions but not a real freeze. Trailing Elephant Bush will take cool conditions but not a hard freeze, so the aim is a frost-free winter rather than a warm one. An unheated greenhouse, porch, conservatory or bright garage all work well. Keep it cool, bright and on the dry side, and it will hold steady until growth restarts in spring.

When should I move trailing elephant bush for winter?

Move under cover before the first hard frost; back outside after the last spring frost.

How often should I water trailing elephant bush in winter?

Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.

What kills trailing elephant bush over winter?

Bringing trailing elephant bush into a warm living room. Too much winter warmth forces weak, pale growth that collapses when it goes back outside — cool and bright beats warm and dim.