Scent is so valuable in winter and there are a number of fragrant shrubs that suit full or semi-shade as well as sun. Plant in pots and site near doors, pathways and windows to fully appreciate their aromatic charms or snip off stems in full bloom to take indoors.
Evergreen shrub coronilla is valuable for blooming from December through to March. The variegated form is beautiful and reasonably hardy, but needs a sheltered, sunny spot. In colder areas just grow the straight kind, which is hardier and will grow to larger size.
Of the shrubby winter-flowering honeysuckles, Lonicera elisae is least well-known. The drooping, slender flowers are distinct from others, such as L. purpusii, making an elegant display at the back of a border.
Sarcococca are valuable evergreens that tolerate full shade, and even dry shade beneath trees. Species and forms vary from low to upright, medium sized shrubs. They're also useful for pots for a shady alley or balcony, where their sweet scent can be fully admired.
Hamamelis are essential shrubs for the winter garden, thriving in semishade in a moist, well-drained, acid to neutral soil. Avoid shallow or chalky soils. Most ultimately form large, spreading shrubs so to keep them compact prune back new flowering shoots by half after blooms have faded.