Wintersweet 10 Seeds Chimonanthus praecox

Chimonanthus praecox, commonly called wintersweet, is a deciduous shrub native to eastern China, cherished for its exquisite and intensely fragrant flowers that bloom in the bleakness of winter. Reaching heights of 2 to 4 meters, it forms an upright, bushy shape with slender, often slightly arching branches. The plant’s most remarkable feature is its waxy, translucent yellow flowers, sometimes with reddish-purple centers, which appear from late December through February, often before the leaves emerge. Their sweet, spicy fragrance can perfume the air across an entire garden, bringing unexpected beauty and scent to the cold season. The foliage, which appears after flowering, consists of opposite, lance-shaped leaves that are slightly rough to the touch and turn a muted yellow before dropping in autumn. Hardy and resilient, Chimonanthus praecox thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil. It tolerates drought once established but benefits from shelter from harsh winds or severe frost. Traditionally grown near entrances, courtyards, or paths where its winter scent can be most appreciated, wintersweet has been cultivated in Chinese gardens for centuries and carries deep cultural significance, symbolizing strength, purity, and the endurance of beauty through adversity. Its ability to flower in the depths of winter makes it one of the most cherished shrubs for adding fragrance, warmth, and subtle color to the dormant garden landscape.