A few days ago I posted about the Penstemom that is still in bloom. You would think that it would have given up it being Mid Winter. I had left it, as up to Christmas, in the isolated dry periods there were bumblebees visiting the blooms. Not having seen any bees for a few days, its time to use the two flowering stems. The light is so poor that the picture is not great.
Making up this Mid Winter arrangement with everything cut straight from the garden after lunch today:
Two Penstemom probably Rich Ruby, Fuchsia Upright Delta's Sarah, Persicaria Red Dragon, Pittosporum garnetti, a leaf from Cyclamen hederiflolium Lysander, a fern leaf, and a stem of Solanum Laxum 'Album'.
Here the flash lights up the Penstemom.
Having had this book recommended, by Anna I think, it made for a quality read over the holiday period. Do please correct me if needed! There are some grim bits such as the damage to sheep by dogs etc.. Horatio Clare captures the feel of Winter, and is a careful observer of weather, plant life and his own struggles with coping with his mood and energy swings. Parts are so deliciously written that they require rereading in order to take in and enjoy the sheer poetry. Many thanks for the recommendation, and again thanks to our Library West ordering service.
Hope Springs eternal over on Cathy's Post this week with more 'unseasonal flowers'.
Very impressive, perhaps as your garden is very sheltered. Shame about the honesty. I had some dried Euphorbia but left it in the shed a week too long, mildew also.
ReplyDeleteIt has been so wet and damp, I ought to have to guessed that mildew could get hold. It was fine just before Christmas. In the upper corner by the Acer there has been no frost so far.
DeleteSo much colour in your garden! What a joyful vase-full. I've had this book recommended to, and now reading your post, think I must get it. Thanks for review.
ReplyDeleteI think you will appreciate the fine writing...do get back and let me know what you think of it. It has been exceptionally mild here: its a strange feeling waiting for winter to come in January.
DeleteYes, I know what you mean about the weather! And yes, I will read and let you know. Thanks
DeleteYour Fuchsias are miraculous, Noelle!
ReplyDeleteOh a penstemon in January - I don't believe it but then fuchsias are long gone here too :) I don't think that it was was me who recommended the book although it is on my list Noelle. A beautiful cover and your review like others I've read makes me want to read it sooner than later and preferably during the winter months. I must check our local library's catalogue.
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