Theoretically, in mild years such as this one, you can probably find something that is in bloom throughout the year at Esperanza.  It does take a little bit of work, and a few non-natives: the Chinese Witch-hazels have a longer blooming period than either of the two native American ones, which tend to avoid January.  Heather, if correctly located, will also bloom throughout the winter, as will some of the Hellebores (which we have not as yet had much luck with). 

However, these are definitely oddities.  Spring here starts with the with the two snowdrops: the large Leucojum and the smaller Galanthus.  These like the wet, partially shaded woodland edges and have been in full bloom these last few days.  Also starting up are some of the species crocus planted against a south facing foundation wall.  From now through the end of October something will be blooming here.  Rather nice, that.