It's been a while since the last post. April was unusually warm and as a result blooms are here earlier than most years. The (deciduous) Magnolias and spring bulbs are nearly done, Lilacs are in full bloom and many spring flowering shrubs and perennials are making an early show. Below a sampling of what's blooming in the garden today. (Click on pictures for a better look.)

Lithodora is a perennial that behaves like an annual. It flowers from may until frost. Give them lots of sun and very well drained soil. These little alpines will grow a few inches high and spread about a foot.

Prunus laurocerasus is a strong evergreen for zone 6. It's masses of little white, fragrant flowers are poised to open here.

This year we will finally have some to sell at Coles.

Aucuba serratifolia (laurel) is a broadleaf evergreen that flowers in spring, but you've got to look closely.

Sanguinaria plena (double Bloodroot) has pure white flowers that last all too briefly. Plant them along the walk or driveway, so you don't miss the show.

Polygala chamaebuxus is a tiny little alpine with evergreen foliage and these beautiful flowers brought to you courtesy of the macro lens.

Rhododendron ramapo is a dependable little bloomer for someone like myself who doesn't bother too much about giving plants what they need.

Saruma henryi was given to me last year. I was glad to see it survived the winter.

Phlox subulata is as common as the dirt it grows in, but for a spring show it can't be beat.

Omphalodes is still one of my favourites for May bloom.

Mukdenia rossii is not really grown for its flowers. The green "Heuchera-like" foliage takes on interesting red edges in a partly sunny location.

Helleborus Betty Ranicar. I'll admit I paid too much for this, but the flowers will last through the summer, provided you can be bothered to flip them over when everything else starts to bloom.

Erodium 'Bishop's Form' is one of those unusual little plants that always get left on the bench at the nursery.

If you've got a dry spot in the garden it will flower from May until frost and it's dependably evergreen in zone 6.