I would find it impossible to pick a single favourite plant from my garden but, especially if I was allowed to further increase the scope by picking winners from various categories, I think this Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Diane’ would be a strong contender in the winter flowering shrubs group (even if it wasn’t about the only member of that group represented).

It was one of the earliest additions to the front garden but was originally much nearer the house. Last year we moved it near the end of the drive where it can benefit from more sun and we can easily appreciate it’s intricate beauty and delicate scent without having to trample on wet, muddy grass.