"Sacha" wrote in message
I noticed today that despite the cold snap and now the gales, our Cornus
controversa variegata is still holding on to its leaves AND has new buds
appearing. Can't say I remember that happening before.

I was wondering about the same thing in my garden. Not only are there still
leaves on clematis nelly moser, it also has several flowers in full blooms!
Still are leaves on clematis fireworks and montana; hydrangea; weigela
florida; lavatera; spirea japonica and hardy fuchsias. And although most of
the leaves have dropped off exochordia, it has new buds appearing. And
today I've noticed a couple of hebes have burst into flower, including Maria
which I think is a spring variety. It was freezing up here last week, but
it's turned wet and mild again.