By Dandy Lion I had a dream the other night that I was walking through the Garden. People usually dream about flying, but for a plant, walking is just as fantastical. Anyway, I was walking through the Garden, enjoying all the wonderful plants. Suddenly I stopped, because something seemed odd. I noticed two plants that…
Perennials
Forbidden Gardens
By Dandy Lion As the days start to shorten, plenty of plants are telling us that fall is here. Ornamental grasses explode like fireworks, berries ripen for the birds, sasanqua camellias begin to bloom and mums create vibrant mounds in the Garden. Actually a chrysanthemum’s bloom date is not determined by cool weather or a…
Busy as a Bee
by Dandy Lion Sometimes we get so busy in life we forget to take the time to appreciate what is around us. A short walk through the Garden can always change that. During a stroll through the tropical garden, you might casually notice a beautiful passion flower. But take a little extra time and really…
Fun Guys
I went to the woods today, but not deliberately. I’m not such a Thoreau thinker – the wind just blew me there. (Actually to be more reflective about my movements, I should be walled-in.) While in the woods I met a bunch of fun guys. They were definitely very interesting and you don’t get to…
Sunrise at the Garden
Have you ever wondered what the Garden is like when no people are here? It is not quite a “Night at the Museum” scenario, but pretty close. Let’s just say I am not at liberty to discuss details. However, a small group of people got to see the Garden this morning at sunrise and had…
Humming Along
by Dandy Lion I’ve spent the last week or so in the Hummingbird Garden and have enjoyed my time here very much. Of course, the purpose of this garden located behind the education wing is to showcase plants that will attract hummingbirds to your garden. For me, it has been a good place to hide. …
Water Hoarding
Thanks to hot temperatures and infrequent rains, the gardeners have really had to work hard to keep the plants watered and healthy these last few weeks. Given our adversarial relationship, normally I would laugh at their misfortune. Instead, since my thirsty roots benefit as much as their targeted plants, I am thankful for all their…
A Cut Above
Have you ever done something that you know is such a bad idea or so dangerous it defies common sense, yet you are compelled to try it anyway? I guess that’s how thrill seekers live much of their life. Well yesterday I went and did that crazy thing and this week we’ll see how well…
Supporting Cast
The butterfly house opens this weekend and there should plenty of fun for anyone interested in spotting these flying masterpieces. This year the house is filled with a larger variety of butterflies, all native to this region. There are large ones like the swallowtails. Six different swallowtails will make an appearance this year – the…
Shady Characters
Have you ever noticed most of our theme gardens that feature perennials are in sunny spots? The Sarah Lee Baker perennial, sensory, butterfly, hummingbird, sunken, fragrance, Matson, border, and colonial gardens as well as the wildflower meadow all enjoy long exposures to that glorious fireball in the sky. Many of my good friends can be…