The Leatherleaf Mahonia (Mahonia bealei) started blooming two weeks ago. I like to call this plant the Grape Holly, because beautiful blue-purple-grape-like berries replace the yellow flowers during the spring months. But this is not correct, because there is a Mahonia from Oregon that owns that name. Mine originates from China.
My Camellia shrub’s formal name is unknown to me. I have to be vigilant from December through February and keep it protected from below freezing temperatures, but this winter has been mild so far. This is the first time that the buds are pure white without any burned edges.