The Grapevine
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Slowly, but with fat, bright fuchsia-pink buds, Tulipa humilis Violacea is pushing through the mulch. With its globe shaped buds, this strain hardly produces leaves first. Leaves and buds appear at the same time like small pink and rust coloured knuckles.
Again very early in January, they brighten up the garden beautifully without even being in full bloom yet.
What a joy to see flower again - they are so reliable. It is the fourth year Iris reticulata are growing strong, despite the rain, we have had this winter.
A native of the Caucasus, i. e. Iran, Iraq, Turkey & Georgia, this dwarf Iris blooms late winter or early spring, in shades of blue & purple. Some exquisite varieties bear white flowers with bright yellow or orange falls. Some are scented more than others and are generally great for a pot or planter. Just my all time favourite.
After a mild December in 2015, I have spotted the first daffodil in flower alongside other winter and spring flowering plants. What a great way to start the New Year.
However we are still waiting for Sarcococca to open and infuse the air with its wonderful scent.
