So far this year I’ve added a Daphne odora ‘Aureomarginata.’

I have wanted one of these for ages. Two of my neighbors have them, and their lemony smell in February gives me the courage to believe that another bleary winter is almost over. I have been afraid, though, to embark on a daphne adventure because they’re reputed to be quite finicky. They will enchant you for years, only to up and die suddenly and for no reason.

It’s small right now, just a quart-size plant, hiding behind the gardenia hedge. It should get moderate sun, decent exposure morning through midday.

Fingers crossed!