Early signs of Spring in the Parks
A welcome splash of colour is returning to University Parks, as the first signs of seasonal change begin to emerge across the grounds despite winter’s lingering chill.
Visitors walking through the Parks this month may notice subtle but uplifting changes in the landscape, with a variety of early-flowering plants bringing brightness to otherwise damp, grey days.
Among the highlights are:
- delicate clusters of snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis) at North Walk, whose elegant white blooms hint that longer, lighter days are approaching
- vibrant winter aconites (Eranthis hyemalis) illuminating borders with flashes of yellow
- the rich fragrance of Sarcococca (Sarcococca confusa) drifting gently along the pathways
- Crocus (Crocus spp.) adding splashes of purple and cream
- Pink Willow Catkins at Cox's Corner, alongside the glowing stems of MidWinter Fire Cornus
- the distinctive ribbon-like flowers of witch hazel (Hamamelis × intermedia) contributing both colour and structure to the winter landscape.
The gradual reawakening of the Parks offers an inspiring reminder that spring is gradually on its way, and that there will be many more blooms to enjoy as we approach March.
