At a time when much of the garden sleeps, winter flowers are all the more precious for their scarcity; an irrepressible bunch, undaunted by wind, frost or even a blanket of snow. Many are small, yet t

While the world lies muted and still, winter-flowering shrubs release their secret perfumes – vanilla, clove, citrus and almond – showing us that beauty and hope thrive even in the coldest corners of the garden

From grasses to ferns and herbaceous perennials, these choice winter evergreens light up borders with colour and texture, says Sue Fisher

Warm up chilly days with some sizzling blooms

Liz Zorab lists the eye-catching plants she hopes to add to her garden this year

Rosie Irving explains why this resilient, wildlife-friendly plant has a place in every garden