The trees are still bare, and there are crisp dry leaves rustling in the corners.
But, the signs of very early spring are starting to show. The winter flowers are blooming!
The prehistoric looking blooms of a Witch Hazel plant are some of the first flowers to emerge after the frosts have ended. These spidery flowers are a mysterious delight.
Next, small Crocus flowers appear amongst the frozen twigs and remnants of Fall's last show.
I wasn't sure if these small sweet (tried and true) winter flowers would even grow in California. But, last year I ordered a few bags of bulbs anyway. Much to my delight the grew!
They are subtle and delicate, but glimpses of color bring the promise of great things to come.
Another welcome peak of color comes from Primroses. They peak out from empty flower pots, offering vibrant glimpses of color.
I love walking out into my garden to find these first signs that winter is nearing an end. 
Primroses are reliable winter flowers. They die down in the scorching heat of summer, but return reliably late every winter.
The primroses are echoed in vibrancy by the delightful blooms of my reliable Christmas Cactus.
This winter beauty is hard as nails and brings joy every year, even in the dreariest of months.
Camelias are another "sure fire" late winter flower. Mine thrive on a partially shaded hillside.
The low light of late winter ignites winter blooming flowers, making them simply glow. Nature seems to just know how to highlight these beauties, even in their subtly.
Even evergreens, ferns and (the surviving) succulents glow in the cool low light.
Purple Happy Wanderer Evergreen twining vine thrives in a corner of my patio.
This winter flower can live in sun or shade. It has clusters of purple flowers in winter.
Like many winter flowers, this vine is relatively small in stature. It only grows to 10' tall.
Even though it is not yet Valentines day, promises of warmer weather are starting to peek through.
Velvety Pansies and Violas bring cheer to empty corners.
The winter garden is filled with the enchanting scent or Winter Daphne.
This small delicate winter flower unleashes an intoxicatingly sweet aroma, a welcome sign of the spring days ahead.
Thanks for stopping by, and happy gardening!
Linking up to these fun blogs:
http://thefoleyfam.com/2016/02/sunday-funday-link-up-144-features.html
http://www.thecasualcraftlete.com/2016/02/07/the-creative-gallery-166/
http://www.sewcando.com/2016/02/craftastic-monday-link-party.html
