Spigelia marilandica – a Plant with Tropical Flair
The topic of tropical plants often conjures up lush images to gardeners. These images may include large and bold foliage or perhaps flowers with dramatic shapes or brilliant colors. When I first saw Indian Pink at Longwood Gardens many years ago, the bold red and yellow flowers gave the impression of a tropical plant, heralding from far warmer regions (as seen at right). Little did I know that this plant, botanically known as Spigelia marilandica was native to regions throughout central and southeastern North America and not the Caribbean!
Bruce Crawford
With the chills of late March and the adequate April showers behind us, early May looks to provide a wonderful assortment of spring blooming plants. Although rather chilly for those looking forward to those summer days of 90 degrees, the cool weather will allow spring blooms to last and to be enjoyed to their fullest! May is always a hectic month, so take the time to make notes in your journal and take long evening strolls with your favorite beverage to smell and enjoy the fruits of your efforts.
Antiquity in our Midst
With COVID finally becoming less impactful in our lives, the act of getting out into your Garden still remains a great option for getting exercise and fresh air. Many of us have come to appreciate the beauty of plants and the calming act of working in the soil. Sales of vegetable and annual seeds continue to remain strong as we eagerly await these warmer days of April for seeding! As the sun and warmth of April unfold, take a deep breath and prioritize what must be completed vs. what could be postponed for a day or two. Also, spring is a time to begin anew, so give thought on how you could change things up a bit, whether it be containers or perhaps a new garden! HAPPY SPRING!
Subtle Bells Peal the Beauty of Spring
