We went down to my parents'
house for half term. The warmer London temperatures mean that threat
of frost has long passed and the garden is blooming.
The standout plant in the
garden is the Chilean Lantern Tree (Crinodendron hookerianum).
It is an evergreen shrub introduced from Chile in 1848. Apparently it
is quite tricky to maintain but it seems to thrive in this position.
As a South American species it prefers warmer, sheltered conditions.
It also needs acidic soil which this patch must have as rhododendrons have grown along here.
The ornate bell shaped
flower gives an unusual and exotic touch.
Most of the roses are now in
full bloom. I've noticed all around that the roses look particularly
good this year.
There is the occasional rose
still feeling a little sleepy and refusing to uncurl from its bud.
In the greenhouse there's a
selection of plants waiting to be granted a spot in the garden. The
geraniums are lined up patiently.
A pair of fuchsias will be
full of buds soon.
Already potted up and ready
to be hung outside are some begonias.
Down on the patio are the
strawberries standing very upright. Attempts to contain them have
been pretty successful but as ever escape plans over the sides are
evident.
Looking very patriotic are
the petunias. I hope Her Majesty on her official birthday weekend
would approve.
Keeping a close eye on all
of this is the garden guard. Woe betide if you are furred or
feathered and dare to come in. Gentle human strokers always welcome.
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what a beautiful garden. love all the colors. -Claudia
ReplyDeletethe lateen tree is stunning, love the reds in the garden. Fuchsias always remind me of my hans house, she had them in pots in the garden everywhere, little ballerinas she called them
ReplyDeleteIt's all going on in your garden at the moment! This reminds me that my in laws have one of those lantern trees (also by rhododendrons as it happens!), we're going round to see them tomorrow so I'll be sure to pay it a visit!
ReplyDeleteYou are right about the roses, they are lovely everywhere I go too :) We've had a few red strawbs here, the key is getting them before the birds!
Thanks for joining in again lovely lady and have a nice rest-of-the-weekend :)
It's amazing how a few degrees of latitude can make such a difference. Our roses are about the same as you mum's. #HDYGG
ReplyDeleteThe Chilean Lantern Tree is very interesting and not a plant I have ever seen. #hdygg (and do give the cat a stroke form me when you next visit)
ReplyDeleteCovent Garden is the place to explore next time you visit London. There are lots of theatres, restaurants, pubs, cafes, shops and hotels for you to enjoy. Covent Garden Piazza is always busy with shoppers and culinary adventurers.
ReplyDelete