Senna didymobotyra, or popcorn Cassia is a fun addition to any garden because the crushed flowers and buds have a strong scent of buttered popcorn. It is a robust plant that enjoys sun and heat. Note the large bumble bee closing in for a pollen snack. It is also a favorite of caterpillars of the large yellow sulphur butterflies so watch for eaten leaves in late summer. B. Bennett garden
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GrevilleaGrevillea
An Australian genus of 300+ species well suited to dry conditions and poor soils like here in San Diego. Local nurseries are selling more and more varieties so try one out. They come in many sizes and flower colors to fit any space in your garden. In Australia they are a favorite of honeyeater birds so I presume that our hummingbirds will go crazy for these. Photo credit; C. Bell (Geelong, Australia)
Quintessential ToadstoolQuintessential Toadstool
Amanita muscaria. I think this is the prototype for the Disney-esque toadstool seen in cartoons and movies. Ibotenic acid and muscimol are the moderately toxic neurotoxins from this fungi.
When the Name FitsWhen the Name Fits
This is a Flowerpot Parasol mushroom, a member of Leucocoprinus genus. It appeared 2 days after the rare summer rain we got from tropical storm Hilary.