Bastard senna...

...seems a rather coarse name for such a beautiful plant - I prefer the full and much more descriptive name, Coronilla valentina subsp. glauca 'Citrina'. 

It was a beautiful early spring day, and Pete and I finally got around to celebrating Valentine's Day (we do things in our own time!) in our traditional way. We drove out to Rassal's Nursery in Little Bytham - a bit of a trek - but worth it to visit a proper nursery with all sorts of botanical treasures and knowledgeable staff. It helps that it also has an excellent and friendly tea-room!

We could have spent a small fortune, but came away with a relatively modest haul, including a fine specimen of Scilla peruviana, an apricot coloured Eremurus, a Convolvulus cneorum and this Coronilla, whose named seemed particularly appropriate for Valentine's Day. It originates from southern Europe, but should be hardy enough to grow on our sheltered south-facing patio. The crowns of flowers are soft and delicate in appearance, but their scent is rich and haunting - with flowers being produced throughout the winter months and again in late summer, it should be a valuable addition to the garden.