Category: Native Plants

Mystery rainbow

When I looked out at the muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris) on a recent morning, I first thought it was covered with frost. Then I realized it was much too warm for frost and instead was moisture as a result of our previous rainy day. I proceeded to take a few photos.

When I downloaded the images to my computer, I was shocked to see what looked like several rainbows in one of them. I did not see these colors when I looked at the plant.

Dew covered Muhly grass with rainblow like background

I have no idea why this image has these colors, and why the ones taken immediately before and after do not. At any rate, I thought it was worth sharing.

We’ve enjoyed the muhly grass since it bloomed pink in early September. It looks fragile, but it has lasted quite well. I’m glad it led to such an interesting photograph. Can anyone explain the rainbow effect?

First frost flowers of 2012

I was delighted to discover my first frost flowers of the season on dittany plants (Cunila origanoides) on November 13, 14, and 15. Our nighttime temperatures were in the mid 20s and were the lowest we’ve had this fall. I was thrilled to find these ice sculptures in our backyard for the first time last year (Frost flowers and Frost flowers #2). Seeing them again this year suggests that their occurrence is somewhat predictable.

frozen ice cristals on dittany plant Continue reading “First frost flowers of 2012”

Small splashes of fall color

I’m continuing to enjoy all the colors of Lexington’s many trees. In our backyard, the black gum or tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica) is almost breathtaking with its brilliant red leaves. However, as I wandered in the garden this morning, I discovered other, smaller splashes of color as well. This blueberry bush (Vaccinium corymbosum) almost seemed to glow with its mixture of reds and yellows.

Bright red leaves of Vaccinium corymbosum

Continue reading “Small splashes of fall color”

October gardenscape

As the growing season comes to a close, the backyard is looking somewhat scraggly. One exception is the view of the rain garden.

pink muhly grass, asters, and sunflowers in October
Bald cypress tree, New England aster (purple flowers), narrow-leaf sunflower (tall yellow flowers), pink muhly grass, and prairie dropseed (clump of grass on the far right)

The pink muhly gass (Muhlenbergia capillaris) is especially striking, and makes a much bolder statement than when it first bloomed in October 2010. It’s been providing a splash of pink for about three weeks now, and it brightens my mood every time I see it. Here’s hoping it stays around a bit longer.