The Garden Awakens
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
I had one of these planted in a pot for several years. I did bring it into the house during winter. It only bloomed during fall. I think it is amazing that it lives outside all winter in your area. Lucky you.
ReplyDeleteThat is lovely! Jeannine
ReplyDeleteHi Phillip, The flowering maple was one of my mother's favorite house plants growing up in California. Love Plants Delights nursery.
ReplyDeleteVery pretty! I have always had to bring mine inside, but even so they are easy and rewarding plants.
ReplyDeleteThis is such a beautiful photo of a stunning plant! It was so great meeting you and Michael today! A perfect day for a walk in a perfect garden!!!
ReplyDeleteThis is one of my favorite plants!In the ground or in pots, they make it through most winters here. In mild winters, they only stop blooming in December or January and begin again in May. Our humming birds seem to like them,too!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! And now I am ashamed because someone gave me a tiny one, and I didn't really know what it was and did not do my research. I neglected it, and it died. Next time will be different!
ReplyDeleteI love abutilon, but rarely see them. I spotted some at a botanic garden over the weekend and I think I giggled with joy. Good post about a great plant, and very nice photos to boot!
ReplyDeleteI think I shall have to get one of these. Finally after 14 years on the homestead I am starting to landscape!
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