Tuesday, April 24, 2012

A graceful progression

When we bought our house almost 9 years ago, we discovered a Rhododendron wrapped in ivy in our back yard.  We uncovered it, and a couple of years later we were thrilled to see blooms.  A little research leads me to believe it's a Rhododendron 'Catawbiense Grandiflorum'.  These plants are common in my neighborhood, blooming just as the azaleas are fading.

Ours has grown both in size and in number of blooms.  It's a welcome plant both summer and winter, with it's evergreen foliage and bright Spring blooms.
But to really appreciate its beauty you need to look more closely.
Do you see  the bee?

Don't you love the graceful progression from bud to flower? 
I'd love to think that as we age we open up with great beauty the way flowers do.

10 comments:

Beth at PlantPostings said...

I have Rhododendron-envy. Obviously, they're tough to grow here, although my mom nursed one along for years--even when she lived up in the Green Bay area. They're gorgeous and your shots are wonderful!

FlowerLady Lorraine said...

I love your Rhodie, such a beautiful color. I have azaleas down here in s.e. FL.

Enjoy the loveliness that is surrounding you, it sure is wonderful.

FlowerLady

Donna said...

My rhodies are not doing well in my not too acidic garden...I love the progression of these flowers....and your words brought a needed smile to my face!

Rosie Nixon Fluerty said...

Yes I agree Ginny - there is always such a graceful colour gradient from bud to flower.

Love those thoughts of yours too.

Alistair said...

Your Rhododendron must have been very happy that you came along. I guess we humans do also improve gradually, but just wait, its all downhill after a certain time has passed.

Unknown said...

You have a beautiful bush of Rhododendrons.

sweetbay said...

Your rhodie is gorgeous! I see a few in our parts but more in the Sandhills.

Cat said...

Yes, I'd like to think we are becoming more beautiful with age. At 94 I sincerely thought my husband's grandmother one of the most beautiful people I've ever known.

Karen said...

Ginny, the rhododendrons are just beautiful. I wish I could grow them here, but will enjoy yours from afar.

So good to visit with you again!

Wally said...

Beautiful!