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

Warm up chilly days with some sizzling blooms

So many new types of Japanese flowering quince are now available that they have been the subject of a four-year trial by the RHS. Charles Quest-Ritson picks his favourites

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

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

Try our pick of the most beautiful plants you can buy now