Flowers on Friday

The name ‘catkins’ has evolved from the old Dutch word ‘Katteken’ meaning kitten in reference to the resemblance to a feline’s tail. Seen in spring on Birch, Hazel, Sweet Chestnut and Willow trees.   

Flowers on Friday

The Crocus The crocus is one of the first flowers to emerge in the spring. It is often referred to as the light bulb flower because it looks like a bright light bulb until the petals unfurl into the cup shaped flower. This year the displays have been fabulous. Then from my heart will young…

Macro Monday #92

(click to enlarge to full size) This pretty shrub was covered in flowers in early June (Bonython Garden) I think it is Halesia carolina (Snowdrop tree or Carolina Silverbell), but I don’t think I have seen one before. It is so pretty. Originating from south-eastern USA it is a hardy tall shrub/small tree. The spreading branches are…

Macro Monday #82

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Macro Monday #81

(click to enlarge to full size) A large deciduous shrub with grey-felted shoots. Grey-hairy leaves, flowers: pendent saucer-shaped purple-blue on long stalks. Commonly known as: Chinese lantern, Flowering maple, Parlour maple.

Macro Monday #80

Which of my photographs is my favorite? The one I’m going to take tomorrow.  ~ Imogen Cunningham. (click to enlarge to full size) My final tulip this year (I know I have gone on a bit) is this pretty purple one performing its last dance. Tulips give so much pleasure even in their dying moments. As…

Macro Monday #79

(click to enlarge to full size) A visit to the Eden Project at the beginning of May was not the best time to go for tulips this year, although there were still some in bud outside. In the Mediterranean Biome though it was a different story. Large terracotta pots (and oh, how I wish I…

Tree Series #28

“The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The next best time is now.” Chinese Proverb Waiting for the train to St Ives under this glorious cherry tree at the end of April. I am constantly amazed at how these trees hang on to their blooms as it is always windy by…

Macro Monday #78

(click to enlarge to full size) This year I added a new French Parrot tulip with long stems and an outrageously large  flower head. In retrospect possibly too large for my windswept plot.  From green buds unfurl brilliant orange blooms. The feathered flowers have hints of pink and green brushed along the petals. The finished…

Tree Series #27

“Yet still the unresting castles thresh In full-grown thickness every May. Last year is dead they seem to say, Begin afresh, afresh, afresh!” ~Larkin. When the trees get dressed in spring it is as though they have decided to go to a party! Beautiful copper leaves translucent in the sunshine. Possibly a Copper Beech tree….