Winter Jasmine

All the time I've been moaning about the awful weather over the last few weeks one hidden corner of the garden has been growing its own patch of sheer joy. With the first fine day for ages I was able to go and do a bit of gardening and have a poke around for interesting flowers and insects. This Winter Jasmine bush, hidden from the house and rapid comings and goings in rain and hail storms, is absolutely glorious. It was introduced from China around 1845 and has rightly become a favourite British garden plant. It flowers right through the winter months, taking advantage of any brief mild spells. The bright yellow flowers and fresh green stems and leaves have little competition at this time. Every garden should have some.