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Chilean Fire Bush - a hidden jewel in our garden

It is heartbreaking that this beauty is hidden in our garden but at least the hummingbirds have found it. Hidden because it is planted behind a 7 feet tall rose. I planted it there because I was under the impression that it would become a tree. It can indeed become a tree and there is one growing about a mile from our house that is around 20 feet tall.  In our garden, it is taking its sweet time and is only 4 feet tall after being planted seven years ago (2017). It did not begin to bloom until its fifth year and this is the first year flowering has been so profuse. Whenever I think about this plant, I always remember what the Gosslers said in their book "The Gossler Guide to the Best Hardy Shrubs". I quote it here: "Since this plant comes from southern Chile, we begin with a word of warning: it will not grow anywhere in the United States outside western Washington, Oregon and northern California. People wanting to grow E. coccineum in the eastern part of the country will

Street Views


I rarely get photos from the street. In this case, I was across the road talking to my neighbor and took some photos on the way back. We got 1/2 inch of rain on Monday and the garden responded nicely.







Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Comments

  1. Breath taking view! Am I correct in seeing no sidewalk? The only access point is by the mailbox? (I wish you had added a photo of the "before" view, from the time you had just purchased the house. I'm certain it's unrecognizable).
    Chavli

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    Replies
    1. Correct, the only access from the front is by the mailbox. There is a side entrance from the driveway. If I did it over again, I would have liked to move the main entrance down a little toward the middle and made a curving path to the front door instead of the straight path that is there now. I will rustle up an old photo.

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  2. Beautiful shots, Phillip! The lighting was perfect.

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  3. Wow! I found myself saying "Oh my gosh" out loud when I saw the first picture. Amazing colors, textures and varying heights. Just right! It is truly beautiful. Your neighbors are lucky ducks.

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  4. Your neighbor who lives across the street must have one of the best views in town. I'd sit outside in the street with a cup of coffee every morning enjoying your garden instead of my own!

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