Chimonanthus praecox - Wintersweet

Native to south China, Chimonanthus praecox is a vase shaped, small shrub growing to a maximum height of approximately 4 metres. It has grey-brown bark with ovate, narrow, dark green leaves which turn yellow in autumn. Dry, brown pods are followed by yellow solitary flowers which are bell shaped and bloom in December time through to February. The flowers have a delicious scent and give Chimonanthus its common name of Wintersweet. Grows best in a warm, sheltered position in full sun.