I've got another post today for 'A Week of Flowers', hosted by Cathy at Words and Herbs. I'm still focused on spring, which in coastal Southern California rears up in full force in March. I had a hard time restricting myself when it came time to selecting a few highlights from March 2024 but here are those that made the cut:
 |
| This is Calliandra haematocephala (aka red powder puff), a massive shrub growing up against one side of our garage |
 |
| Although the Freesias get started in February (and sometimes earlier), they're not fully on a roll until March |
 |
| A variety of different Narcissi make their presence known |
 |
| Scilla peruviana (aka Portuguese squill) hails from the area surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, not Peru as the species epithet suggests |
 |
| I've had little luck growing the "fancy" tulips that require colder temperatures (even when I carefully refrigerate the bulbs prior to planting) but I've had some success with species tulips such as this Tulipa clusiana 'Lady Jane' |
Cathy at Words and Herbs and others contributing to this meme have other beauties to share. Be sure to check them out by going to Cathy's website.
All material © 2012-2024 by Kris Peterson for Late to the Garden Party
These are all so sweet, I can't let myself yearn for spring yet. I love your 'fancy' tulips!
ReplyDeleteHopefully, my species tulips will return again in 2025, Tracy. 'Lady Jane' has been consistent for a few years now. Her cousin 'Cynthia' isn't quite as reliable.
DeleteOh that Calliandra haematocephala is fabulous! I miss my red callistemon blooms.
ReplyDeleteI actually have 3 Calliandra shrubs in this garden, all inherited. They're essentially treated as foundation plants and routinely sheared to keep them under control. Only the one shrub blooms well but I think that's because the others don't get enough sun, not because of the shearing.
DeleteYour spring flowers are all gorgeous! And the light in your photos is so fresh and warm! The Scilla is outstanding - much larger than the ones I grow. And the Freesias must smell wonderful. Thank you for brightening this dark and chilly evening Kris!
ReplyDeleteThe fog has finally (mostly) cleared here, although our humidity level remains high and our temperature remains on the low side - even though it might be perceived as toasty by you, Cathy! In any case, your meme has brightened my day too so thank you.
DeleteYou have truly beautiful flowers in your garden. I particularly love the red powder puff bush and the tulips.
ReplyDeleteI always wish that the red powder puff flowers would bloom for Christmas but I usually have to wait until at least Valentine's Day for them to show up.
DeleteVery, very nice. I tried to grow Freesias one spring/summer, but didn't have much luck. All your flowers are so beautiful. :)
ReplyDeleteFreesias are native to the cape area of South Africa so they appreciate a Mediterranean climate like ours in coastal Southern California, Beth. Your climate is probably too cold and wet in winter for them to be truly happy.
DeleteOh, lovely spring delights! Wish I could grow freesia outside, but I just have to enjoy yours. :) Eliza
ReplyDeleteI'm already regretting the fact that I didn't add many new Freesia bulbs this year, Eliza...
DeleteLovely to see your March flowers Kris - some of which would be in flower here too at that time of year đ
ReplyDeleteWe do have the occasional overlaps in what we can grow in our very different climates, Anna ;)
Delete