It's a bit early for a July 4th blog post, but as I was taking photos in the garden recently, I realized that I was starting to get a little patriotic theme going.
The white Texas Star Hibiscus, Hibiscus coccineus 'Alba', a passalong from fellow garden blogger Ursula, has been doing very well. (Ursula will be pleased that I didn't kill it!!)
These are the best I've managed to get so far. Hopefully there will be more blooms when I am home this weekend.
I have them growing in containers positioned in front of the Rose of Sharon or Althea (Hibiscus syriacus) and the Flame Acanthus or Hummingbird Bush (Anisacanthus quadrifidus var. wrightii) which are growing in the ground. There's also a Hamelia Patens in a container in the same area, although it was hit hard by the winter freezes and it's only now starting to put out tiny buds.
But in the meantime, the Flame Acanthus is in full bloom and is a hummingbird magnet. I was thrilled to snap a photo (from a distance) of a male ruby throat checking out the blooms.
Looking at this little vignette makes me realize -- I need some BLUE plants for my July 4th garden!
Actually, I *do* have an Indigo Spires Sage, but it's clear on the other side of the garden, by the dining room window. I'll have to see what I can do about getting some growing in the back border along with the red and white.
I hope everyone has a safe and happy July 4th.
Words and photographs by Jayne Wilson, Green and Serene, Jayne's Country Garden.
