Five for Friday 20 Jan 2023

It has been a month now since the record cold here in Birmingham.  The weather has been seasonal since,  which means warm days with rain and sunny days with near freezing temps.  A close watch on the garden continues to reveal many hopeful signs that plants are entering their late winter/early spring phase.  There is even a daffodil bloom to feature for this post.

First, is the first sign that the Southern Shield Ferns (Thelypteris kunthii) are beginning to rise out of the ground.  There is the characteristic fiddlehead. 

Second, is a chrysanthemum.  There are increasing numbers of newly emerging growth stalks.  These are hardy mums and they bloomed prolifically last fall.

Third is a photo of Shasta daisy awakening.  It took a significant hit but prospects of a good summer bloom are increasing.  This is the ‘Becky’ cultivar.

Fourth is Stoke’s Aster (Stokesia laevis).  It seems to be well recovered and in better condition than the Shasta.  It is a native which explains the  better response.

Next are two other natives.  The resurrection fern which always freshens up after a rain and the leatherwood (Dirca palustris).  The leatherwood is now 5 years old and this is the first bloom that I have seen on it.

Finally, the prize goes to the first daffodil.  I am unsure of the cultivar but it may be ‘Ice Follies’.

We will have rain this weekend with continued seasonal temps.  The hellebores are making good progress so I hope to have photos of them next week.

In the meantime, tomorrow, wander over to the Six on Saturday forum and see gardens from all over the world as our group shares.  Jim Stephens hosts our group here and it is a pleasant place to gaze as you enjoy a morning beverage.

Until next time, Happy Gardening.