Incredibly pretty, Rhododendron 'Praecox' is prized for its early spring blooms which brighten the dull days of winter. Among the earliest Rhododendrons to flower, this small semi-evergreen shrub bears clouds of delicate clusters of 2 to 3, widely funnel-shaped, rosy-pink to lilac-purple flowers, up to 2 in. wide (5 cm), at its branch tips from late winter to early spring. The shiny, dark green leaves are small, ovate to rounded with paler undersides. 'Praecox' is a famous old early flowering hybrid, which is spectacular when in full bloom. Ideal for adding early color to the garden, it makes a ravishing accent shrub and is a great companion to early daffodils and other spring bulbs. 

Vigorous, Crocus tommasinianus 'Whitewell Purple' features elegant, slender-petalled, purple flowers adorned with silvery mauve inside and bright orange anthers. The grass-like foliage displays narrow, median silvery stripes. Borne on sturdy stems, the flowers withstand wind and rain. The profuse flowering and spontaneous self-propagation make this crocus a very great choice for naturalizing. Great also planted in clusters at the front of borders or in patio pots.