If you want a group of plants that makes a quiet statement try some Pineapple Lilies.
There are several types of Eucomis, but this on thrives best in my North Carolina garden.
I purchased this Eucomis from one of my favorite places on Earth, Brookgreen Gardens. This South Carolina attraction has both sculpture and gardens. It is a must see. They host fabulous events.
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FLOWER
Last year my four hibiscus plants were out in the yard around the fire bowl in big pots. I planned on doing the same this summer. The hungry deer had different ideas. One hibiscus plant died over the winter, so I cannot blame them for that. The other was brutally eaten beyond any chance of recovery. The surviving two had to be wheeled into protective custody inside the fence on hand trucks.
I guess they will spend the remainder of their lives behind bars.
The peach double seems to have recovered rather nicely.
The red had more limbs removed , but is finally blooming.
Hibiscus blooms are even lovely from the back.
I am glad I was home to rescue these lovely plants from our hungry herd.
FLOW
This is a striking daylily. It is larger than most and the colors are vivid.
I was going to move ‘Spider to Fly’ because it was too close to the steps.
I have changed my mind. I like to be able to see it from above and get close to it.
Spider to Fly is a new favorite.
FLOW
I absolutely lover Stargazer lilies. Their color and texture are hard to ignore.
Their aroma draws anything with a nose closer. It is hypnotic in nature.
But beware of getting too close while entranced. That rusty, dusty pollen has a dark secret.
It stains everything it touches. Sniffer beware.
If you want to clip some for an arrangement, it is best to snip off the stamens first.
FLOWER
A parade is a show moving by as one stands still. Spectators must pay close attention so as not to miss the small, special elements that give the whole thing its spark. My goal was to catch those jewels among the steady flow.
There is a technique to this scan and zoom kind of photography that is very dynamic compared to taking pictures of flowers in a stationary garden.
Here is a gallery of my favorite special sparks.
I love the Blowing Rock parade!
FLOW
If you are a fungi fan, you will love this book.
I used to teach biology so this is right up my alley. Ha
FLOW in mountains with no internet
I was afraid that there might be NO devils in my garden this year. They were slow to show.
Finally the big devil sent up its creepy stalk and a bunch of leaves.
Then I spotted a spotted sprout.
The third little devil has not emerged yet.
I do love this weirdo plant, Amorphophallus konjac
FLOW and a weirdo
Hundreds of beautiful blooms and hundreds of large weeds greeted me upon my return to my garden this weekend.
I am home with my new computer. My usual computer, mouse and keyboard are in use at Mama’s. Nothing is like it should be anywhere.
I will just share photos of the blooms, not the weeds.
My dahlias have been in pots too long and must be put in the ground today.
Forgive my lack of labeling. If you really want to know a name, ask in comments. I will answer using my phone.
CLICK ON pics to make them full size. They got cropped in the gallery.
I have a lot to say but no time to say it and no one to say it to. Next post is about the Devil.
FLOW on the GO
I am visiting home today. I have been touring the garden slowly with my eyes wide open, like I am in a strange land on high alert.
Five days away is a long time in a garden. I must pay attention. There have been visitors. Things have happened.
The Oakleaf Hydrangea has burst into bloom.
Its scent is only slight due to the cool air and wind.
The last of the poppy blooms are a favorite with the bees this morning.
The Verbena bonariensis is tall and lovely. It has such geometric stems.
The Black Knight buddleia has started to bloom.
I spied the first Four O’ Clock flower.
Some critters have moved things and dug holes and left waste. Nothing dramatic so far.
I am glad to visit home, but it is not the same as being home. That will have to wait. I am needed more elsewhere.
FLOW
P.S. WORDPRESS just informed me that I started this site 8 YEARS AGO TODAY! WOW
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