In our part of the American South the first frost date averages November 15. It is 26 F this morning, so we are on schedule. The air is crisp and clear with a forecast for a bright sunny day. On this type of days, the light is so bright that it becomes a little difficult to see.
Garden tasks will be delayed today but they are few. In fact, the most important task will be to check the LED lights for our outdoor Christmas decoration.
However, I have still been able to find some colorful items to show you.
First, here is a blue ageratum or mistflower (Conoclinium coelestinum). It is perennial with striking lime green foliage and the misty blooms that have been there for weeks now.
Second is a kerria bush (Kerria japonica). It had stopped blooming but I found this bloom down low in a protected area. It mostly blooms in the spring but sporadically there have been blooms all summer long and now well into fall.
Third, I have a photo of the pansies I planted as a fall/winter annual. They do so well in windowboxes and containers on the patio or deck. This cultivar is in the Matrix series. They are able to tolerate cold down into the low 20’s. The bright faces are much appreciated in the cold mornings we will experience the next few months.
Fourth is a rhododendron that I found 2 days ago with a well developed bud. It looks well wrapped to bear the cold. Anticipate this will be glorious in the spring.
Fifth is a Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides). It is a native. The name derives from the frond leaves which resemble hanging Christmas stockings. I will leave that to your imagination.
Sixth is an indoor plant but I keep them outdoors during the warm months. It is a Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera truncata). It is a succulent which is very easy to propagate. It is sometimes called a Thanksgiving cactus which seems more appropriate at this time of year.
Be sure to follow Jim Stephens at Garden Ruminations
He is hosting the Six on Saturday group. There is an abundance of great photos and dialog there.
Happy Gardening!
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Lovely Cactus, I was reading about the different varieties a few weeks ago. Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter ones.
Glad you’ve found a fat bud on your rhododendron – a promise of things to come.
I like the form and leaf colour of the Conoclinium coelestinum, but it seems as it needs damp conditions, and sadly I have none, so it doubly pleasing to admire it on your post.
The Schlumbergera is so festive-looking. Perfect for Christmas!