Wintersweet, or Chimonanthus praecox, is a hardy deciduous shrub that is popular for its delicate winter blooms and heady aroma. The name 'wintersweet' seems apt for this shrub, describing the colorful flowers and spiced fragrance that can be much needed in the winter garden. The flowers tend to bloom from December through to February, helping to add backyard interest during the winter months.
Native to Asia, the leaves of this winter flowering shrub turn from green to yellow before dropping in the fall. The distinctive flowers then appear on bare stems in shades of pale yellow to deep maroon, going on to produce a sweet and spicy fragrance.
