The lead story is still the native rhododendron. The picture above is just steps away from the nature center back by the old guest cabin. Lots of flowers in full bloom, but still more to come. This appears to be a particularly good year and the recent cooler weather has helped to preserve the blooms for a longer time. They also seem to be holding up quite well in spite of all the rains....and we have gotten a lot!
The borders of Lake Odonata are now ringed with Lizard's Tail (Saururus cernuus) an emergent aquatic plant. The common name comes from the long curving white flower that to someone resembled a lizard's tail.
The young Canada geese now resemble their parents more and more each day. Above, the three young are flanked by the parents.
The Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) is blooming and attracting many butterflies and other insects as well. The flowers offer a somewhat lilac scent to passersby.
Another wonderful butterfly plant are the Monardas. Above is Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa).
Below is the brilliant Bee Balm or Oswego Tea (Monarda didyma).
The genus name of these members of the Mint Family honors Nicolas Monardes, an early 16 century physician and botanist. The other common name " Bergamot" is derived from the town of Bergamo in Italy. Some of the species, like Bee Balm, are considered "garden escapees". I always envision a moonlit night with the garden gate left partial open...and all the cultivars running for their lives!
So keep those gates tightly latched.
Posted by Tom
