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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InspirationInspiration
A reminder that inspiration for planted landscapes often comes from wild nature itself. This is probably Lupinus albifrons and was photographed at Eagle Rock near Warner Springs. Post provided by LJ.
Toyon and Hollywood?Toyon and Hollywood?
It appears to be a favorable winter for the fruiting of red Toyon berries as patches of red have appeared on our chaparral hills. The berries while technically edible are very unpleasant if eaten raw. Heteromeles arbutifolia, Toyon, or California Holly is native to coastal ranges of California and southern Oregon. Although it grows on the hills around Hollywood that is apparently not the reason for the name.
California Holly: How Hollywood Didn’t Get its Name | Natural History Museum (nhm.org)
CamelliaCamellia
One of the first blooms of spring especially from an established plant. Although popular in North American and European gardens the Camellia originates from Asia.
image provided by S. Castellitto