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Anise 'Woodland Red' ( Illicium floridanum ) A few weeks ago, I thought spring would never arrive, but now the change is astonishing. The nights are still cold (40s and sometimes even 30s) so planting tender annuals and vegetables is unwise although I have already succumbed, but covering and uncovering things gets old quickly. Someone made a wise comment last week and I must agree with them - "Don't plant anything tender until after May 1". Several plants are blooming like never before. One is the Anise shrub (above and below). I don't know if the recent tree pruning, which is allowing more sun into the woodland path, is affecting it or perhaps it is just age, but I've never seen so many blooms. Michael refers to this as "the stinky fish shrub" and I have to admit to smell of the flowers is quite unpleasant. It is so beautiful that I can overlook that. The old pink dogwood tree, which was already here, shades our woodland path and it too is prett
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Fall is not over yet!

Despite the recent band of cold temperatures and even a snow threat (rare for November), there is still some beautiful foliage in the garden and the sasanqua camellias have been blooming nicely. This is Alabama Snow Wreath  (Neviusia alabamensis), a native shrub along the north fence next to the street. The leaves have been spectacular this autumn. 



 

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy
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  1. David - Pinewood CottageDecember 2, 2011 at 2:24 PM

    it really has been a beautiful fall here too.

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  2. GailDecember 2, 2011 at 3:32 PM

    I still a few blooms but, I don't think they can last much longer. Love the Snow Wreath.

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  3. Lisa at GreenbowDecember 3, 2011 at 12:24 AM

    Isn't it amazing how the last yellow leaves look like beacons in the late fall sunshine.

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  4. DDecember 3, 2011 at 10:01 AM

    Fall is not over yet in the PNW either as the leaves on the Sweet Gum still cling to most of the branches, but this morning's hard frost may help it along. Happy Fall and winter, Phillip

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  5. sweetbayDecember 5, 2011 at 10:45 AM

    The bright yellow leaves on the snowwreath are lovely!

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  6. BoDecember 5, 2011 at 8:46 PM

    I love the yellow foliage on that shrub...no fall is not over here...I've been wearing short the past couple days.

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  7. sherryocalaDecember 11, 2011 at 8:26 AM

    That's a great shrub. Hope your fall lasts a little longer.

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  8. Digital Flower PicturesDecember 12, 2011 at 3:45 AM

    Not familiar with the Alabama Snow Wreath but it looks great. You are lucky to have any foliage left. Our landscape is bare and dreary.

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  9. RandyDecember 16, 2011 at 10:36 AM

    My gardening bug is really starting to kick back in now. I think next year is going to be a much better year. BTW I got your email about catching you up. I promise I'll get around to that sooner or later. :-)

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  10. Peggy HillDecember 18, 2011 at 7:28 PM

    This shrub is on my list for 2012. Thanks for sharing the lovely fall color. Merry Christmas Phillip!

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