Two plant families have the potential to produce a continuous cycle of fragrant flowers throughout the year in Britain – the honeysuckles and the daphnes. This one is a daphne in thin disguise, and has the most wonderfully scented tassels of yellow flowers at this time of the year, bridging the gap between the fading delights of Daphne bholua and the incomparable nasal charms of D odora.

Edgeworthias eventually become stately if rather sparse medium-sized shrubs with large deciduous shiny leaves, and flexible young branches that can be tied in knots, should you ever feel the need. If you see a healthy plant of reasonable size for £25 or thereabouts, buy it.