Candied ginger was a popular sweet in Europe from the 13th to the 15th centuries, before chocolate and sugar-based candies became widespread. The first ginger ales were marketed as tonics to soothe stomach ailments.

Today, ginger grows commercially in countries like India, China, and Jamaica, but home gardeners can successfully cultivate it in warm climates like Southern California.

Daffodils, known botanically as Narcissus, are native to the meadows and woods of Southern Europe and North Africa. They belong to the amaryllis family and have been cultivated for centuries.

These hardy bulbs symbolize rebirth and new beginnings. While they’re famously associated with the rolling hills of England, many varieties can adapt to warmer climates with a bit of help.

Will the showy ranunculus flower grow in Southern California’s warm, arid environments?

Yes, but with a caveat. Ranunculus prefer cool to mild temperatures. The California summer is a bridge too far, but the winter and early spring climates are almost perfect.