I was amazed by this tree trunk that looks like an elephant's head.
Elephant Trunk
Thistle Fool Ya
I was stopped in my tracks when I saw this thistle-like plant, cultivated in a garden outside Seattle's Museum of History and Industry. What makes it unusual is the intense purplish-blue color of not only the blossom but the spiky leaves surrounding it. My guess is that it's a false blue thistle. Regardless, the plants were... Continue Reading →
Man-Drake
How many colors can a drake have? Judging by this one, whose photo was taken at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park in Renton, quite a few. If the ladies are attracted to colorful decoration, this guy is a stud.
Hydrangeas
I have never paid much attention to hydrangeas until fairly recently. Now when I see them, I marvel at their complexity, at how each plant can have flowers with variegated colors, how each head unfolds from neutral-toned buds to petals bursting with color. The lacecap varieties intrigue me the most. I came across a patch of mophead-type... Continue Reading →
Flower Power: Hmong Success Story
In the Seattle area, it's impossible not to see stalls run by Hmong growers at the farmers markets. Say what you will about their omnipresence at Pike Place Market, but their cut flowers and arrangements bring incredible color to an already vibrant local attraction. The Hmong now have stalls at farmers markets throughout Puget Sound. For many... Continue Reading →
Images of Port Townsend (WA)
With its deep port and proximity to abundant timber, Port Townsend in the nineteenth century was well on its way to becoming the commercial center of Washington State, but the railroads balked. Seattle eventually prevailed. Now, Port Townsend hinges much of its fortune on tourism and boat-building. The preservation of Victorian homes built during the boom years led... Continue Reading →
Sammamish River Trail Garden
There is a small water conservation demonstration garden along the Sammamish River Trail, right below the NE 85th overpass in downtown Redmond, that showcases plants that draw insects attractive to salmon and birds. The garden design simulates a riparian environment by its system of mounded beds, large rocks and gravel pathways. It also provides photographic opportunities throughout much of the year.
Fluffy Ground Cover
At this time of year in the Seattle area, cottonwood trees release their seeds deposited in downy, cottony puffs that become airborne on the slightest breeze. They swirl around like snowflakes, a little puzzling when you see them for the first time well past winter's end. In some places, they can accumulate in such quantity that they appear... Continue Reading →
Signs of Spring at the Farmers’ Market
It won't be soon enough for summer produce, which will begin to appear in earnest next month. Still, the Issaquah Farmers' Market is drawing customers with spring flowers and vegetables.
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