Vivero's Garden

Garden Bloggers Bloom Day Feb 2012

2012-02-15T09:33:00.000-08:00

Happy GBBD February 2012!

The Gazania are full of blooms- I have always found these to be such intriguing flowers. They are so exotic. Love em'!

The Giant Ligularia are hard to beat- the one in the front bed is still going strong and so hard to find things that bloom in the shade. Always been a favorite.

The Spring Bouquet Viburnum are in bloom- I don't normally post them but felt they deserved to be featured.

The Rosemary are busting with color and the bees couldn't be happier!

The Euphorbia are loving the front bed I put them in. They have doubled in size in no time!

The Mountain Laurels are beginning to open up- oh the sweet fragrance!!!!

The 'Midnight' Salvia are always a show stopper.

The limes are setting and blooming away. Love the fragrance of the citrus blooms.

The Verbena are blooming away- always been a fan of the purple.

The Carolina Jessamine are blooming away- trying to figure out where I want to plant this vine.....

And last but not least, the Euryops are blooming away as always. Not necessarily my favorite plant, but it is great for color.

Hope everyone has a great GBBD!!! Visit May Dreams Gardens and see what's blooming all over the place!!

Happy Valentine's!

2012-02-14T09:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day to everyone!

The weather here has been beautiful yesterday and today. It is supposed to reach 75 today. Sunday we had sleet and a few snow flakes. You just never know.

We are crazy busy- I am saving my "spare time" for tomorrow for GBBD to run

and take photos and post but wanted to wish everyone a Happy Valentine's!

An Agave in the Sun

2012-02-01T16:54:00.000-08:00

We have been so busy these last few weeks I have hardly had time to take many photos but when walking by these yesterday, I had to grab my camera and take a shot. I thought this was just too pretty not to post. The Blue Glow Agave's are so interesting to me- I love them the most when they are backlit by the sun. It was 77 degrees today, 75 yesterday with a little rain. Texas weather. What else can I say? Gotta love it. If you don't, as they say, stick around, it will change.

Short but sweet post. Hope you enjoy.

And for those of you that ask what do we do as growers do in the winter?

Lots and lots of this.....

Babies. Lots and lots of babies. My job, which I love, is taking care of all of them.

Potting, cutting, cutting back, moving things in and out, never a dull moment.

Happy February!

What a Beautiful Day!!

2012-01-23T12:40:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful day!!! I had a great time just walking around today looking at all the butterflies and bees enjoying the sun.

Here they are enjoying the Spring Bouquet Viburnum.

The bees were all over the Grape Holly just buzzing around.

While I was sitting there snapping photos, the bees and the butterfly on the Grape Holly were not wanting to share....

Alas, in the end they decided to take separate sides. It's so nice when everyone can get along!

Hope you are having as beautiful of a day as we are. Last check, it was 71.

It's A Tree Kind of Thing

2012-01-06T14:15:00.001-08:00

Can you believe it? 2012 is here. Where does time go?

I myself spent New Years sick as a result of the infamous Cedar Fever which has many suffering around town. Upon returning to the nursery we had a bunch of new trees- it was so exciting! I love to see and learn about new things.
Here is a photo the Cedar Elm.

I must admit I am fascinated but the bark. It is so neat and has so much character.

The branches are interesting as well. I mean look!

I love the different textures on them and they are a really pretty tree.

Another one I found intriguing today was the Poncirus trifoliata. They are basically covered in curlycues. I hadn't seen this before but there was one in Chicago outside of the Aquarium. It gets covered with orange balls- can't wait to see that!

Here's a close up of one branch. Love it!

Here's a close up of the Lacey Oak - another one with interesting bark. These trees are also quickly becoming a favorite of mine. The textured bark is stunning I think. Again, just has a lot of character.

The Palo Verdes never cease to amaze and draw a lot of attention. The bark is green, hence the name- green sticks translated. We have one planted in the corner and it has gotten so big this year! It blooms beautiful yellow flowers which makes a beautiful contrast.

And last but not least is the Monterrey Oak. An old classic. The bark is simple yet subtle. Hope everyone had a great New Year and looking forward to 2012!

Chicago

2011-12-19T10:44:00.000-08:00

What's not to love about Chicago?

I can think of nothing. We got engaged there for starters and visit at least once a year. We both just love it. I am always torn between which is my favorite city- Chicago or NYC - it is just too hard to decide. I love them both for such different reasons. Right now I would say Chicago, only because we just got home after a wonderful visit complete with snow! I have also decided that my new favorite restaurant there is RL hands down. The service, atmosphere and the food- nothing to complain about, nothing I would change and would have dined there again before we left if we had the time. We got a shot in front of the fireplace before we left that I am using on our Christmas cards- yes, I have yet to send them out but the photos have been uploaded and sent in and should be to me soon so I can address them and get them out. We visited the aquarium on this visit, which I have to say, I was very impressed. (not with the line to get in... but once in, was an experience not to be missed.) If you go, make sure and see the jellyfish exhibit- very interesting.

Hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season. I am taking off from blogging until after the new year- too much going on and been out of town a lot.

Till next year!

Monday Monday

2011-11-28T12:43:00.001-08:00

Happy Monday to all and hope everyone had a great holiday weekend!

It was chilly here this morning but is absolutely beautiful right now.

I walked around and got a few shots of some little show-off's I thought I'd share.

The Kalanchoes continue to be my favorite- the first photo and the one above being two of them. I like how this one has the little "fangs" on the underside of it's leaves- hence what I would imagine is why it got it's name.

The 'Midnight' Salvia is bursting with color- such a radiant purple. I like both, hard to choose between this and the traditional one with the purple and white.

The Mandarin Oranges are just about ready to eat. Can't wait!!!

The Mexican Flame Vine has finally burst with color on our side of the fence- forever it seemed it was solid orange on the other side but now we are getting it's showy self- the one at the entrance is loaded with blooms- can't wait for that either!

The Cigar Plant is blooming below the flame vine and I love how it picks up on the orange- it makes it showier.

The Possumhaw are doing their thing.

The Valencia Oranges are turning and will be ready soon!

The Chrysanthemum pacificum are beginning to bloom. I will admit, I was not so impressed with this plant at first, but it is growing on me- I like the silver on the backs of the leaves the most.

The 'Black Scallop' Ajuga are blooming away and looking pretty as ever.

And last but not least, I just can't pass up a Maple leaf. These little guys are a deep maroon and just scream fall to me.

Thankful

2011-11-23T06:07:00.001-08:00

Where to begin... What am I thankful for?

I am thankful for my sweet loving husband. (he would kill me if I posted a photo so I will not.)
I am thankful for my brother who is my rock next to my husband.

I am thankful for my brothers fabulous family to which without, he would not be so wonderful =0)
I am thankful for my family who is always supportive.

I am thankful for my sweet little girls who greet me/us upon coming home with enthusiasm on a daily basis.

I am thankful for Bridget who I miss dearly and daily and thankful we were able to be with her and tell her goodbye.

I am thankful for my wonderful friend Chris- never judging, never keeps score, never says I told you so and always right there with me to listen to vents, rants and tears- we are LM sisters.

I am thankful for all my friends who are too numerous to mention but are all equally as loved and cherished as are the times we have spent together.

ok so I snuck in a photo of him....but it's such a good one!

I am thankful to have discovered that I not only love working with my husband on a daily basis, but also am thankful that I love our business. (and find I miss it when we are not there!) I mean how can you not love walking into things like this on a daily basis?

and last but not least....

I am thankful for the Brazilian hair straightening Keratin treatment. If you had curly hair like I do, you would understand why I am thankful for this....

Bloom Day November 15, 2011

2011-11-15T06:20:00.001-08:00

Well today is exciting as it is RAINING in Austin!!!!!!

I was so excited I almost forgot it was bloom day!

We still have quite a lot blooming in the beds though, you can see signs that fall is here and things are starting to winterize. I went out after the rain so some things are droopy but are really just exhausted from being so happy it rained, so please excuse them!

To be fair, I am only posting things I have planted in pots or in the beds. I had to start out with an update on my Kalanchoe- day by day it is getting closer to opening!!!

The Desert Rose I think is such a pretty little bloom- faint yet striking.

The front shade "test" bed is rocking right along but the only thing with blooms I have in there is the Tropical Sage, which is doing great in all 4 places I have it there.

The Pink Turk's Cap is still doing well in the front bed next to the Brazilian Pavonia (which was not up to being photographed today as you can see in the background).

The Beach Vitex is doing well in the front side bed under the Palo Verde. (which by the way was loaded with blooms yesterday but after the rain not a single one that was pretty enough to photograph).

The Rock Rose is huge and full of blooms in the back bed.

The St. Elmos Firecracker Fern is blooming away as well.

The 'Mystic Spires' Salvia is still as blue as ever- this is such an easy plant to grow. I have it in two places since it is one of my favorites.

The Panicum Switch Grass is blooming away in the front outside bed.

The Butterfly Bush in the front is doing well- I love the screaming purple.

The Black Prince Echeveria in the front planter is blooming and getting ready to open up, but since it had two bloom shoots I felt he deserved a spot!

Hope everyone in the area got some much needed rain. From the looks of the radar, just about everyone got some. YEA!!!!

Stop by May Dreams Garden and see all the other Bloom Day postings!

Little of This and a Little of That

2011-11-06T11:49:00.000-08:00

First off let me begin by saying that I am very excited to announce that the oranges are turning. It is like all of the sudden the oranges and the lemons just burst into color.

The Cape Honeysuckle is bursting with color as well. These are such a vibrant orange and are like little neon lights beaming with color.

When I was out and about today, I came across a few little guys I thought I would share with you. Here is a little caterpillar which was on the Milk Weed, no shock there. I imagine he will soon make a cocoon and turn into a butterfly, of which kind I do not know. I barely have my birds down, have not mastered the caterpillars yet....

The Moy Grande Hibiscus are so huge I just love them. The flowers are big saucers of color.

I am anticipating the opening of the Donkey Ear Kalanchoe. I have this guy planted right by the door in a large pot and he seems to enjoy the spot. Every day it is opening more and more, I can't wait till he really "does his thing"!

This little guy was watching me it seemed all day. I took his picture and then he flew off. I guess he was waiting to be noticed.

Another big guy that was checking things out was the hawk. We have a few in the field next to us and they tend to like this pole, it makes a great perch for them.

Like I said, a little of this and a little of that... The cold front is gone but now there is a pretty decent chance of rain. We shall see.

Burrrr!

2011-10-28T09:52:00.000-07:00

There is a definite chill in the air and it is FABULOUS!!!

A cold front rolled in yesterday and is supposed to stick around for a while. It is so pretty outside right now and feels fantastic.

Before I get to any of the shots I got this morning, I wanted to say a big THANK YOU to J Peterson Garden Design , Rock Rose, and Sharing Nature's Garden for the write up's they did on the nursery!

If you have not read their blog entries on us, please click on their link.

The 'Grassy Lassie' Aloe is stunning. It has blooms all over it.

The Possumhaw's berries are starting to turn- this is such a very cool tree. The berries turn red (they have just started to turn, they will get more red) and then they drop their leaves so you have these sticks with berries. They are similar to the American Beautyberry which does the same thing but those are purple and look more like little grape clusters (also very pretty).

The Ocotillo is mesmerizing to me. I love the striations on the branches.

The fruit of the Pineapple Guava. I have never tried it but I have heard many people find it tasty. Maybe this year I will give it a go.

The Pyracantha berries are turning as well. Like it or not fall is coming, or is here.... just ask the plants. ( I for one am ready! )

Salvia Wars

2011-10-20T09:46:00.000-07:00

First of all, I do not know what this is- a moth of sorts it looks like. Can anyone identify? Either way, he was very fascinating to me so I ran and got the camera.

He was all over the salvia.

I thought it was so cool how I could see his proboscis.

I was totally mesmerized watching him.

Here is a shot of his back side. He was all about the salvia. Well, apparently someone didn't like that much..... out of the blue came this hummingbird who proceeded to chase him. It was bizarre to watch. They were going so fast- I tried to get a shot of the chase, but was unable.

Here is the hummingbird after chasing him off, going to the salvia.

Either I got the hummingbird or the moth (?) but never both in focus on the same frame.

The hummingbird would swoop down and chase him, then go to the salvia for a while, then go hang out on the branch and watch for a minute then go right back to chasing him off. It was so fun to watch.

Here he is on his lookout. He would get so close to me I could have touched him. It was so fun.

See- like here- only the hummingbird was in focus.

Hope you enjoy the shots.

GBBD October 2011

2011-10-15T09:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Garden Bloggers Bloom Day!!!

The Leonotis is blooming away in the front bed. I love it when they get two and three little "lion's heads" on them. (They call it a Lion's Tail, but to me I think it should be a Lion's Head.....)

The Fairy Dusters seem happy- we just planted a new bed up earlier this week and this is in there and appears to be quite content.

The Mexican Flame Vine is such a bright and happy vine- on certain days the entire fence is a solid orange- LOVE IT! This particular shot has some of the Purple Fountain Grass blooms in it- I planted one in that bed- hopefully it will last through the winter but if not I like the way it has looked in there the last few months and looking forward to enjoying it while I can.

The Mexican Bush Sage is blooming away- a good ol' standby.

I love the classic look of the Iceberg Rose. It seems happy and thriving in the side bed.

The Bower Vine is taking off on the fence and blooming away.

The Butterfly Bush - what is there to say- there is no wonder that the vibrant purple attracts the butterflies.

The Bougainvillea is stunning and I love the variegated leaves on this variety. Very unique.

The Thyrallis and the Mystic Spires Salvia looks so beautiful together. They both are thriving in the front bed.

And without further ado- introducing Bosephus. He joined us last week and at first Huey was not very polite but has seemed to leave him alone now. I was about to put Huey in the corner! I was told to "change up the environment in the tank" so I did and I do believe it helped. Everyone seems to be getting along.

Tuesday Tidbits

2011-10-11T06:36:00.000-07:00

The Cereus have bloomed- this is one of about 50 more blooms to come- they are completely loaded with blooms. I have never seen them so full of blooms. This week I have been arriving early just so I can see them all. Today one is open, looks like about 4 will be waiting for me in the morning. The bees are already at work and happy.

This is such an interesting Kalanchoe to me- it looks like a Venus Fly Trap. We have several Kalanchoes but this is the most interesting I think.

I am happy to report that the front bed is full of the ice plant and the Calandrinia that I planted in there in February is big and full and happy. I can't wait for it to bloom again. I am still happy with this arrangement- everything in this bed is happy and getting along beautifully.

The Large Cigar Plants are beginning to bloom- I have been waiting to see these in person and it was worth the wait. No wonder they call this variety Candy Corn!

The Yellow Trumpet Vine is thriving and full of blooms- I like the orange one as well but the yellow is stunning to me.

And last but not least is a shot of my latest arrangement - I must admit I am happy with the way it turned out. I like how the colors all seem to bounce off each other. I have the St. Elmo Firecracker Ferns at the front, the Yucca rigida behind, then the Salvia Black and Blue then the Thyrallis. Behind the Thyrallis is the Bottle Brush which started coming into bloom yesterday.

A Few Favorites

2011-10-05T13:30:00.000-07:00

The Mexican Bird of Paradise is loving this weather.

The Peruvian Cereus are full of blooms- totally loaded. Makes me want to get here early every morning so I can see all the blooms!

The Barbados Cherry are so pretty and blooming away. I had never heard of this plant before and I love it- course I am partial to pink....

The Brakelights Yuccas are stunning- they are a vibrant red, unlike the red yucca which I think is more pink.

My all time hands down favorite Texas Sage is this one with the white flowers. I Think it is so simple yet classic.

And last but not least is the Podranea Vine; it is quickly becoming a favorite. They have a beautiful weeping habit. They are light and almost "flowy" if that were a word.

Dragon Bloom!

2011-10-02T10:11:00.000-07:00

The Dragon Fruit blooms opened up this morning- they are absolutely stunning! I have been watching this plant all week in anticipation and it was worth the wait!

Here is a shot of the bloom before it opened taken earlier this week.

We have other colors - stay posted for their blooms!

Thank You Community Impact News!

2011-09-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

A year already?

I know- what I thought- a year!

I can't believe we have been here one year! I wanted to send out a special thank you to Community Impact News for the write up on us they did announcing our anniversary. Click here to read! We are item #20.

If you would have asked me a year ago if I would love this I would have probably answered no. I wouldn't have been more wrong. I actually look forward to going to work and miss it when I am not there- as nutty as that sounds it's true. The flowers, birds, bees, butterflies alone are enough to make it a place to want to be day after day. Wrap that up with all that I have learned, watching the plants grow - many that I myself grew, hearing myself talk to customers about plants, being astonished at times all I have absorbed and learned. Now, that isn't to say that I don't still ask Michael questions from time to time to verify information or questions, cause I do. Maybe it's the teacher in me, but I make sure what I am saying is right, no embarrassment there in asking him questions (or Shonna- another valuable resource).

So thank you again to Community Impact News for the article. A year! Wow!

And a special thank you to all of our customers that we have met along the way- we couldn't have done it without you.

Can Anyone Identify This?

2011-09-23T06:16:00.000-07:00

We were sitting in the office yesterday and saw this beautiful bird! I quickly got my camera and snapped some shots- all are through the window so not the best photos but I think they are still very pretty.

I got a shot of his back side as well.

I loved it how he would keep one leg on one branch and step down to get to the berries on the other branch.

He was having a blast in the American Beautyberries and didn't seem to notice my slow movement inside to get closer and closer to the window.

I have no idea what kind of bird he is but he is beautiful. The other day you all helped me identify the Painted Bunting- hopefully you can help me with this guy.

It was so fun to sit and watch him.

I eventually tried to slowly open the door but he flew away, luckily I got some good shots before I tried the door.

Thanks for looking and hopefully you can identify him!

Garden Bloggers Bloom Day

2011-09-15T11:58:00.000-07:00

Garden Bloggers Bloom Day

September

Here is what is blooming today in my beds!

Ajuga 'Catlin's Giant'

American Beautyberry- the birds are LOVING this.

'St. Elmo's' Firecracker Fern

Salvia leucantha- can't keep the hummingbirds off this (not that I want to)!!!!

They love it!

Pavonia Rock Rose

Leonotis- a personal favorite

Brazilian Pavonia

Pink Turk's Cap- another favorite

Delospermum Ice Plant- very happy where it is I might add

Hamelia

Oldie but goodie Tecoma stans

Hearts and Flowers- another one that is very happy where it is.

And last but not least, Cat Mint. This is much prettier than the photo.

I love this day as I get to see what is blooming all over the country. Thanks to May Dreams Gardens for hosting, be sure and check her site at May Dreams Gardens and see what is blooming.

The Butterflies Are Out

2011-09-12T06:42:00.000-07:00

I don't know if it is the cool mornings we have been having or just simply the time of year, but the butterflies are out and I couldn't be happier.

There is one pair of Monarchs that are flying around together that I have not been able to capture but will keep trying. It is beautiful to watch them flying, zig zagging and diving around the plants.

I am not a butterfly expert- not do I pretend to be- but I do love to photograph them.

Hope you enjoyed the shots.

Thank You Austin Herb Society

2011-09-07T11:14:00.000-07:00

I won! I won! I won!

My first time ever to win anything and look at the beautiful vase I won!

We recently became sponsors of the Austin Herb Society and were invited to a luncheon this past Tuesday. I must say, I had the nicest time. (not only because I won, though that didn't hurt).

The Austin Herb Society is a group of people in the Austin area that (quoting their pamphlet) are dedicated to educating members and the community about herbs, including propagation, landscaping, history, folklore and the culinary, medicinal and decorative uses of herbs. They have meetings throughout the year and even have a culinary group that meets. Once a month they have a guest speaker and I was fortunate enough to be present to hear Judy Barrett speak on "Treasuring our Heirlooms: Herbs and Beyond".

She is a very talented and personable speaker and had me along with the crowd laughing through her stories while at the same time receiving valuable and interesting information.

After the speech we were all asked to look under our chairs to see if we had a number and I did!!! Lucky number 7!

I can not think of a better prize to win other than a beautiful vase to remember my experience. I brought it back to the nursery and filled it with a few of my favorites- the Almond Verbena, Mystic Spires Salvia, Red Turks Cap (I admit the pink is my favorite but with this mix I opted for the red) and the Thyrallis. I think they make a stunning arrangement to which I plan to keep out on display in the office. I am already planning out my next grouping.

Thank you to all the nice people that I met that helped make it an enjoyable day.

If you would like information on the Austin Herb Society, please visit their website at

Austin Herb Society .

Mystery Solved

2011-09-01T17:30:00.000-07:00

Well I hadn't seen the one of our fish in a few days and this morning walked up and saw this.....

Guess I know where he went.
I have mixed feelings here as I fill up the tank so there is water for the birds etc. to drink, but I am not offering up my fish as a snack.
I have asked Michael to make a screen to put over it at night- we will have to see how that works out. I have a Dwarf Papyrus in there and a lily pad that blooms (hence is not flat) so I need to allow for that somehow, perhaps a net of sorts?
I had a similar problem in my fountain in Houston. I had this beautiful Italian fountain I got at Thompson & Hanson and filled it with the prettiest little fantail guppies that were so fun to watch, then one day there were like three. Michael devised a screen that was "raccoon proof" and solved the problem. Luckily they reproduce rapidly. Before long there were several swimming around again. Those little fan tail ones are really pretty, though I preferred the blue ones. Now to wait and see what he comes up with for the tank.
Hopefully everyone stays down until we get it sorted out.

A New Little Family

2011-08-29T14:10:00.000-07:00

Well I can't get really good photos, but here are some photos of the new members of Vivero's little family. The male (I assume is the brighter/prettier one with more blue it seems and is larger) is harder to get a photo of but the female (I assume is the one I have posted) is running around. I have put some dishes out of water for her but can't tell if she is finding them. Apparently they like the area where the little ollie's are and behind the office.

Here are the photos I have so far and I will try and get more but thought I'd share what I have. It is hilarious- she walks right down the middle of the aisle at the nursery but of course by the time I get the camera out she's hidden and I don't want to chase her.

That's all for now- I will keep trying to get new shots of them. Oh and they make the neatest little sounds- you can hear them talking back and forth. So cute.

Random Stuff

2011-08-18T11:25:00.000-07:00

Four Nerve Daisy

Just a random day- no real theme. I was out today taking photos of various things. I spent a lot of time trying to capture this one butterfly that I knew before I started that it was not going to show up well but went for it anyway. I was right.

Here he is flying away- you can almost "get" how pretty he is.

The problem is you can hardly see him in the photos. He is bright yellow and so pretty but when his wings are together appears almost white/ cream. (i.e. hard to photo in the sun....). He was so funny- he would fly around but come full circle every time back to the Pride of Barbados. I finally realized this and just sat and waited for him to come back after making his sporadic rounds.

I had tons of shots of the bees though none really turned out that great other than these. There are three types of bees that are constantly in the salvia- the yellow and black big one,(above) the all black one (below) and then the little bee. They all seem to get along just fine.

The front planter I think is coming along just fine- I pulled out the variegated society garlic I had at the back, I didn't like how it looked after all. The hearts and flowers are growing like mad and have overtaken a lot of the space but I still like the way it looks and how it spills down the column so I am leaving it.

I trim it back here and there but it is just so lush and green I like leaving it in a mass.

The Dwarf Plumbago is such a pretty blue but so hard to capture. I am still toying with the manual mode on my camera - not proud of any of those shots yet but this was the best shot I could get of them. I really like the brilliant blue, I just wish it showed up better.

Little Visitors

2011-08-15T10:22:00.000-07:00

I have had some new visitors to the nursery the last few days- the Painted Bunting amongst my favorites. I saw this bird and thought it was the female Painted Bunting, but after looking her up, she isn't as green as it seems the female is, so I have no idea what type of bird she is but she is really sweet looking. A bird expert I am not nor do I pretend to be. I got a few photos of her through the glass- she was right outside where the Painted Bunting male likes to hang out in the afternoons. I have not been able to get more shots of him though I am not giving up.

The hummingbirds are still out in full force- they live in the oak tree at the front of the nursery. They swoop down and are in love with the black and blue salvia- they "try" other things but always go back to the salvia.

I have all sorts of grasshoppers, walking sticks, preying mantis but this little grasshopper I thought was neat as his coloring was unique, at least to me.

And here is my little surprise that is growing like a weed- a watermelon- who knew. Can you see it? It is at the bottom next to the rocks. I have no idea what variety it is, Felipe planted when we built the bed and it is huge and taking over. I think it looks really neat with the agave I have it with and growing below the Beautyberry I must admit. I have not been able to get a good shot of it all together though- the sun is never right and it looks really washed out. I am still trying to get a good shot of that bed but it is filling out and looking really good. I think the Pavonia is the happiest of all in there next to this watermelon- wonder how it will taste... and there are about 8 more in there but none quite this large yet.

Here's the Pavonia:

Anyone Know What This Is?

2011-08-10T13:26:00.000-07:00

You can not tell by my photos but this is one of the prettiest birds I have seen in a long time. He was hanging out by the front door in the Beautyberries. I got my camera and he jumped over to the pot with the Birds of Paradise in it and I was able to shoot two photos through the window. I wanted to at least have one photo of him in case he bolted. I tried opening the door slooooowwwllllyyyy but he still flew away. Can anyone tell from these horrible shots what kind of bird it is? He's so pretty!!!

A Few Beauties on This First Monday of August

2011-08-01T12:22:00.000-07:00

A few things of note on this first day of August - can you believe it is August!!??!! The Erythrina x bidwillii Coral Bean look beautiful- I have seen these grow into trees which are magnificent but here in Austin they are more of a perennial. They are really pretty and have a rich colored red bloom.

The Donkey Ears are getting really big!! The Silver Pony Foot is cascading along the sides just as I had envisioned. I am happy with the way this turned out.

Here is a closer shot:

The Mexican Olive trees are blooming away.

I think this a sweet subtle flower. It just looks dainty and soft to me. Very wispy yet elegant.
I decided to end this post with the Skeleton Leaf Goldeneye bloom- a small little flower that is tough as nails. These are little Texas natives that bloom all summer regardless of how much heat is thrown at it. They are a happy bright little flower that I think deserved a little attention today!

Have a great Monday!!!!

Finally it Bloomed- Now To Wait!

2011-07-26T07:56:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting for this to bloom forever and here it is!!!! What a pretty flower! Now I have to wait for it to go to seed! But I am halfway there, right? This plant has intrigued me since we planted it last year. It is called Sesbania tripetii 'Rattlebox'. They call it that as first it blooms, then it makes seed pods which hang down, the seeds inside dry up and when the wind blows, it makes sounds like a rattle box. I might not be explaining it well but I am excited for it to happen. Apparently it will bloom yet again and have the seeds/ rattles and blooms at the same time- I can't wait. It is a really pretty plant. I had no idea what to expect. It is tall and reminds me of a Caesalpinia in that the leaves are small and it is tall and grows resembling one (at least to me, I am sure there are those that would disagree). Anyway, I think it is really pretty and am really excited to see it finish and do "it's thing".

Another plant that started "doing it's thing" is the American Beautyberry. I love these. Always have. The bright purple berries are such a pretty color and add a pop to wherever it might be planted. I have one planted along the fence with a watermelon vine growing underneath it. (this was not planned... Felipe snuck the seeds down there and I think it looks really cool by the way). I plan to photo that today and get those photos posted soon.

The bottlebrush are in bloom as well. I love these. A lot of people's froze last year which is why we brought in a different variety that is more cold hardy from NC- the Woodlanders. The bees are happy it is blooming as are the butterflies.

Everything looks great right now and seems to be doing it's thing. If only the rattlebox would start shakin'!!!

Ok, I realize there are other plants out there...

2011-07-21T15:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, I realize there are other plants out there other than these Cereus that I have posted a few times but I just saw THIS. A fruit! Who knew. See, still learning so much. I thought it was a going to be a purple flower and got all excited and went to show Michael who informed me it is a fruit. Who knew. Pretty cool though.

I went out to the nursery for a bit just to visit, I have missed it so much. Everything looks so happy and is in bloom. The Pride of Barbados that I planted have just exploded along the fence line. I can't believe it! I planted these just at a month ago and when I did they were really not that much to look at - look at them now! I snapped a few photos of some things but will take more when I am more up to it. I can say however, that you can totally tell it rained, if only a little. The plants have really responded. It is crazy (in a good way) how much they really seem to transform with a little bit of rain.

I am worried my little succulent pot that I planted is getting too big for it's britches. I guess I will have to put it in a bigger pot. I really like this style of pot though. I got it from the guy next door that sells pots. I am not so much into this style of pottery but I did like this one as it was plain and straight lines and thought it looked good with the succulents.

This is a close up of the Desert Rose bloom which I think is so pretty. This is a new one for me and I really like it.

I am undecided on the mix here. I think it just needs a little more time. The Tecoma have exploded as they tend to do, the Furcrea still looks really good and the Ice Plant is growing like mad. I guess it is just not done doing what it is supposed to do. The Pink and White Salvia (at the back) was cut back, I think when that fills back out (and it is on it's way) I will like it more. I am happy with each plant individually, the Hamelia looks good, the Queen Victoria, I just don't know... I guess it just needs a little more time to fill out. Like I said, when I look at them individually I am happy, it is just as a whole I guess it isn't my favorite, at least right now. I am going to give it a little more time then I might mix it up.

Some Serious Cereus

2011-07-18T07:37:00.000-07:00

Just a short little post to share the latest of the Cereus. I just thought they were too pretty not to post. I have been home in bed recovering the last few days so relying on Michael and Shonna to update me with photos as to what is new and changing at the nursery, and this was just too pretty not to share. I love the way Shonna placed the Carex Sparkler at the base. Nice compliment.

Hope you enjoy.

I should be back up and running hopefully by Wednesday and plan do a "Post Bloom Day Post". I am feeling better today so going to jump around and catch up on all the blogs I missed these last few days.

Monday Monday...

2011-07-11T11:49:00.000-07:00

This is about how I feel today. A little ruffled. I saw this Shasta Daisy and had to laugh as it about sums up how I have felt and feel today.

We have now lost BOTH Cleo and Alex.

I was blaming it on the raccoons but I think now I/we figured it out.... we found Cleo next to the tank. I always noticed how she would swim around the tank at high speeds but never occurred to me she would jump out. Well, she did. Shonna found her on Saturday. I think for now I am going to leave it just Huey and Duey. They are perfectly content in the tank and love the lily pad and come up now when you go to feed them and are getting quite the little personality. I think for now until we either get a lid or some type of a contraption for the top we are sticking with the two.

We had about 5 seconds of rain but I will take it. Not complaining. We got a bunch more at the house but out here just a splash but enough that the plants did seem to notice.

The Echeveria seems really happy and bright green. I moved some to the front steps, you can tell if I really like something if it has made it there.... I have it next to the Donkey Ears which I think are so very cool. It makes for a nice combo I think.

The Chitalpas are in bloom. I think these are such a dainty and pretty little flower. The hummingbirds tend to go there to them but I can't tell if they really like them yet, as they seem to go for only a second then buzz off.
That's it for today- lots of weeding for me today. The beds are looking happier and full of blooms. I will take some photos when it gets a little later- too bright right now but they have really filled out and look great.
I haven't taken too many photos lately, well, that I want to share that is.... I have mainly just been practicing the manual mode on my camera and focusing on mastering that.

A Few Things Caught My Eye

2011-07-01T09:19:00.000-07:00

In honor of the Fouth this weekend, I thought I would start out with two red beauties. The first the red Mandevilla, such a vibrant red. I love that vine. The second a 'St. Elmo's Fire' Firecracker Fern that is bursting with color. I have been "working" all week trying to learn the manual mode of my camera. There have been some ups and some downs but I think I am getting the hang of it. Thank you http://notsoangryredhead.blogspot.com/ for the tips!!!!

As I was walking around today I found a few things I thought were especially pretty today and thought I'd share. Hope you enjoy. (and no, these are not in manual mode... not quite there yet).

The Leonotis Lions Tail are starting the bloom. They are a little behind the 'Savannah's Sunset' but just as pretty.

The Purple Fountain grass are all in bloom and as usual, very pretty.

The Mexican Flame Vine has taken off!! I planted it along the fence line and it must really be happy as it is growing like mad!

Personally, I like the back of the 'Black Magic' Alocasia the best- it intrigues me. The front is black and also very pretty, but I like the back.

I know these are so common but they are in full bloom and really showing off today- just wouldn't be right not to post them.

And last but not least the canna I planted is budding and blooming away. They are such an easy plant. Hard to not like something that is so easy to maintain.

I hope everyone has a safe and happy Fouth this weekend!!!!

Loving the Clouds!!

2011-06-21T12:20:00.000-07:00

Who knew that a few clouds could make such a difference. It was so much cooler this morning and I finally was able to get out there and take a few photos.

The Caesalpinia yellow Pride of Barbados is blooming and they are so pretty. The regular ones are blooming as well but I only photographed this one as I thought it was so different.

The bark on the Arbutus Madrone 'Marina' is so captivating. I love how it is red and it peels. I think it is such a neat tree, someone came in the other day and said they had grown up calling it a Strawberry Tree, as the fruit it sets resembles a strawberry. (but does not taste like one.... I tried it....).

I have finally been able to capture the fish. They seem really happy as of late and the lily pads have a really pretty bloom that has opened up.

These two little ones (Huey and Duey) love to come up and say hi. I know they think every time they see me they are going to get fed. Such is not the case. Luey did not make it as I reported earlier in a post but these two guys seem happy as can be.

Cleo has finally warmed up and comes up to the top now. I will admit I had to throw a little food in there to get her to come up, but sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do.

Here is a shot of Cleo and Alex. Alex is still realllllllly shy and comes up for a SPLIT second and whoosh is gone again. This was the best shot I could get. They are so much fun. If you have not been to The Austin Aqua-Dome, I highly recommend it. It is a great place for the fish, lily pads, plants for the pond etc.. and they are so helpful. (and patient I might add....) I had a lot of questions as this was my first little fish pond/tank and they could not have been more helpful.

Tidbits on Thursday

2011-06-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

It's too hot to be outside right now. I don't care what anyone says. It is hot. It is not even summer. Guess we either get used to it or move, or do like I do and just keep hanging out in the shade area and the shade house.

I was ducking out in the shade area the other day and found this little nest in one of the Pineapple Guava Standards that we have. What a random place for a nest I think. They are about 5 feet tall, I rarely see nests so low. I have no idea what type of bird this belongs to, maybe someone knows. I thought perhaps a hummingbird nest but when I Googled those, they were miniature compared to this, so a hummingbird nest it is not.

Here is a closer shot:

I think nests are just amazing. How the birds manage to create these perfect little circular homes is incredible. I have been watching without getting too close to see if I can see who lives here but have not seen the occupant(s) yet.

While out today walking around I had to admire the Kalanchoes. I really love them. We have a few different varieties and I am not sure I can decide which is my favorite. They are all so different and so unique in their own way.

Kalanchoe Beharenis- almost "warty" looking but really unique. I have this in the front planter along with some of the Black Prince Echeveria and variegated Society Garlic and it is doing well.

The Donkey Ear Kalanchoe as it is referred to is another one that is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. I put this in a planter with some of the Dichondra Silver Pony Foot and I am happy with the way it is turning out. It still has a ways to go as far as growing to get the look I was going for but I am pleased.

And last but not least is the Kalanchoe Fantastic which has been a favorite for a while now. I have it by the front door and love how it throws off the white babies here and there. It shoots out these huge spikes in the fall that are covered with little flowers. I resisted forever to cut the spike off but eventually did and it has bushed out and is growing fuller and fuller every day.

Garden Bloggers Bloom Day

2011-06-15T11:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Garden Bloggers Bloom Day!

I think this is a really neat thing that May Dreams Gardens has done to ask everyone to post what is blooming in their gardens!

To be fair I only am posting plants that are blooming in the planted beds today with the one exception of the Cereus. It was just too pretty not to share.

Here we go- here is what is blooming today:

In the front planter- I really like this plant- it is a Brazilian Pavonia and I like the burgundy center. I think it makes a nice contrast to the pale pink.

The Delospermum are growing like crazy in the front planter. Such a neat contrast to the Queen Victoria Agave (which is not blooming so no photo).

The Hamelia are full of blooms.

The Tecoma are full of blooms as well- little late in the day to be taking photos on most of these but I got here late so had to deal with the sun on the plants that aren't shaded so sorry some of the photos aren't better.

Plumbago, how can you ever go wrong with Plumbago?

The Mexican Bird of Paradise Caesalpinia. So interesting I think with the red sprays.

The White Salvia are blooming like mad- did a close up so you can see the touches of pink.

The Palo Verde- got a little bee in the one bloom to the right. He was unphased I was there nor was he phased by the wind which was making my photo session difficult.

The Thyrallis are blooming away. I will admit this has never been my favorite plant but Shonna swears if I just give it time I will come to love it. We shall see.

Mystic Spires Salvia, oldie but goodie. How can you not love these? I have it in the side bed by the Caesalpinia - I think there are only purple and yellow flowers in this bed. I also have the other Caesalpinia at the opposite end that is all yellow but it wasn't in full bloom today- when he is showing off I will post that- a really pretty one.

Cat Mint bloom- in my purple and yellow bed of course. This is a neat little plant.

There you have it. Everything I have that is in bloom and pretty enough to post. Hope you enjoy. I wish I had gotten here a little earlier so the sun would not have been quite so bright for the shots. Now I am off to continue looking at all the pretty posts!!!

I Swear I Am Not Turning This Into A Hummingbird Blog...but...

2011-06-10T17:08:00.000-07:00

Ok, can't help it, more hummingbird shots! But this one of the hummingbird with this bug?!?!?! Love it!!!! I was so excited Wednesday after capturing some shots of the hummingbirds that I have basically been stalking all year, and thought FINALLY! I captured them!!! Well, then I got even MORE shots. I was and am so excited. It was unreal. They were so close to me- they were not bothered that I was standing out there at all. They definitely seem to have their preferences though plant wise- the White Salvia and the Black and Blue Salvia. They venture to other things but inevitably come back to these two.

I was having so much fun with them buzzing around me. They could care less if I walk up closer to them or stand right in the middle of the Salvia to get the shot. There seem to be two groups of two that fly together. I have yet to capture that- them in air playing Avatar but I also haven't tried, maybe I will go for that next.

Today someone told me that they are more than likely fighting. Interesting. I am going to keep watching and see. I knew they were territorial but these two sets that keep together seem fine with each other- perhaps a male and a female? I don't know a lot about hummingbirds and am still reeling that I have even been able to get any shots of them that are not total blurs that I don't hardly know what to do with myself.

Enjoy!!

Hummmmmmmm

2011-06-08T14:21:00.000-07:00

Finally! I captured the hummingbirds. There are 5 that are constantly buzzing around the nursery and I have yet to be able to get a good picture. Until now. I have had so much fun out there with them- they buzz right by me and make the most unusual little sound as if they are chirping while flying.

There is one that loves to swoop down then go sit on a branch and just observe. They have been so much fun to watch.

They are confused I think by the Bay Laurels, as there are no blooms right now but they continue to go over there in hopes to find one. The Black and Blue Salvia and the White Salvia leucantha seem to be the top two favorites. Then it would be the Trumpet Vine and the Calandrinia. A few find their way to the Hamelia but tend to stick right there in the group of four I have been calling it as I can stand right there in the middle of it all and they fly around me. Hopefully I will have more photos to post soon!

Enjoy!

The Blooms are Coming!!!

2011-06-04T13:04:00.000-07:00

The Cereus Cactus are getting blooms on them. I can't wait. They are night bloomers but I get here early enough that I see them in the mornings. I don't remember how long it takes from this point but I just noticed these and there are 5 between two of the cactus. So exciting!

Here's another one and you can see behind it is yet another!

Not sure what this is going to amount to on this little guy, maybe this is all it does? I have been watching this develop for a while now wondering if it will bloom or if this is it's thing. This is the Peruvian Old Man Cactus.

Here is a shot of one side of the front planter- it was just planted up so it is going to take a while to fill in but I like the way it looks. Shonna did most of the design/placement, I must give credit where credit is due. Here we have a mix of things and I think they all compliment each other nicely. The Furcrea gives it nice height I think. Other plants in there are the Hamelia (which the hummingbirds have been all over by the way), Variegated Sedge, Delospermum Ice Plant, Queen Victoria Agave, White Salvia leucantha, Crassula Silver Dollar, Tecoma stans, Calandrinia, and Schizocentron.

Here is a shot of the outer bed- it is not finished but it's a start. The Mystic Spires Salvia are going strong and the Chocolate Mimosa I think adds a nice tropical touch to the bed. We put a few grasses in there and two different types of Caesalpinia- the yellow form of the Pride of Barbatos and the Bird of Paradise. I like the yellow and the purples together so I threw in a Buddleia with purple blooms to round it all out. I am not done, still have to mulch etc... but I like the way it is coming together. I will do close ups of the blooms and post but it is just too sunny right now to capture them nicely.

Haven't Felt Like Blogging

2011-05-27T08:36:00.000-07:00

Peat's Gone. I cannot express how sad I/we are. To type it makes it real which I guess is why I hadn't blogged about it. He has been missing since Sunday. We have walked and walked and called and called and nothing. I am hoping that he is off with the other neighborhood kitties having a good time and just has not decided to come back yet. We have put up signs and tried to stay positive but it is getting hard to attempt to stay positive and keep up a brave face. I am hoping he turns up soon or we get a call that someone has found him/finds him soon. I posted a few pics in case someone reading this sees him.

Sunday Favorites

2011-05-22T11:51:00.000-07:00

The Queen Victoria Agave is always a favorite.

The Abutilon seem to be happy doing their upside down flower thing they do so well. These have always intrigued me.

The Hamelia are not only a favorite of mine, but of the hummingbirds as well. There are two that hover around the Firebush, and no, I still have not captured a good picture of them. But I have not given up.

The Calandrinia spectabilis is, and will always be a favorite of mine. Almost every one we have is in bloom. I think the blooms are such a pretty color and such a nice contrast to the plant itself.

And last but not least for the day is the Hypericum, the St. Johns wort. These are always surprising me with their changing foliage and flowers. I have to admit these are my favorite shrub.

What a beautiful day. Just a few shots of things that stood out to me today.

Happy Sunday!!

Beep Beep!

2011-05-18T07:11:00.000-07:00

Had a little visitor to the nursery- it was so bizarre- I saw him at the back and ran and got my camera and he had moved up to the front. He was hanging out in the front and then out to the parking lot and then he was gone. I got a few shots of him. I was just glad Peat was asleep inside......

If You Can Stand It, Even More Blooms!!!

2011-05-12T06:24:00.000-07:00

All of these opened up today. This is what I saw when I walked into the nursery today. If only the blooms lasted longer than one day! Absolutely stunning. Breathtaking. There are more blooms behind these but this was definitely a sight. All are the same cactus, the Trichocereus c. hybrid, just different colors of blooms.

Hope you enjoy!

The Cactus are Blooming The Cactus are Blooming!!

2011-05-10T12:57:00.000-07:00

It was worth the wait- it opened and HOW BEAUTIFUL!!!!!

This is the Trichocereus c. hybrid. It is just amazing. The bloom is so large. This was the first of many to come. There is one with about 10 blooms on it- I can't wait to see if they all open at the same time- what an incredible sight that would be.

The Opuntia 'Santa Rita' opened as well. Another beautiful bloom. I love the yellow with the purple color of the cactus. Nice combination.

And the Barrels have begun to bloom as well. We have a few others getting ready to open up that I will post but I was just too excited not to share!

Little of This and a Little of That

2011-05-05T16:56:00.000-07:00

What an incredible day today!!! I could take a few weeks of this weather. I guess I was feeling a little purple today in my photos- no real plan but seem to have a purple theme going on. The Delospermum Ice Plant I think is a great accent for pots, planters and cactus beds. I have seen it planted a few different ways and I have yet to be disappointed. It is a great little punch of color. Several of the California customers say it feels like home to see the Ice Plant as it is literally everywhere in CA. I love the vibrant green and purple combination.

The Agastache Tutti Frutti is another one that is becoming a customer favorite. I don't know if it is the pretty color of the flowers or the fragrance but it is not lacking in either category.

The Texas Star Hibiscus is an old time favorite. I have had several questions about this one as I guess many have not seen it and think it is something quite the opposite.... ha ha
I hadn't thought about it until the first person asked, but I guess it does resemble another plant, but it is simply a Texas Star Hibiscus that blooms an incredible bright red flower and is quite striking.

Last but not least I will end the post with my side kick Peat. He followed me around today weaving in and out of the plants yet sticking right by me as I walked the aisles. He is one of the most unique cats I have ever known, had or encountered. I think he thinks he is a dog at times, as he literally follows me around and comes when I call. He's a little stinker and we love him.
Here he ended our "photo walk" by collapsing next to the Agave celsii, where he proceeded to attempt to take a little bite- which I am happy to report he did not. He quickly discovered this was not to his liking, bounced inside, ate and took his spot behind the desk where it took him all of 5 minutes to fall asleep.
What a life!

Chilly Morning!!!!

2011-05-02T12:48:00.000-07:00

It is chilly out there today!!! I felt it roll in yesterday, it was as if someone turned on the A/C, it just rolled in nice and cool and was rather refreshing. This morning it was still chilly and it feels fantastic. We were rumored to get some rain, though it went right around us as sadly is often the case. We got a bunch of new items in the nursery this weekend that I am going to feature on today's post.

The first photo is Yucca baccata and Agave a. medio-picta. They are both really unusual looking to me. The Agave in particular I think is really extraordinary- I have not seen anything like that. I was really excited to see that one come off the truck.

This is the Trichocereus c. hybrid.

I can't wait to see what this bloom is going to look like.

Speaking of blooms I can't wait to see open.... I have these on my watch. This particular cactus has two blooms, the one in the photo above and this one below. This is the Cleistocactus strausii.

They are both different colors- can't wait to see how they turn out.

This cactus looks like it is covered in a web of sorts, it is called the Peruvian Old Man Cactus. It has big long thorns but not tons of them, just a few spread out but they don't look like anything you want to mess with. I don't have a lot of experience with cactus but am learning a lot.

These I think look far better in person. I could not get a good shot of them but I do like the way they gradually get larger. I tried all different angles, but was not able to get what I think is a really good shot of them. They are called Trichocereus terscheckii.

And last but not least is the Barrel Cactus- they are getting ready to bloom- this is a bloom I have seen before and am anticipating seeing again.

Today's Stars!

2011-04-27T12:26:00.000-07:00

Today is a short but sweet post- I have been feeling under the weather and walked around letting the sun shine on me- the best medicine I can give myself. A few things struck me today; the Whales Tongue, White Plumbago and the Cannas. The Whales Tongue Agave is one of my all time favorites- I like the smaller agaves as well, but the larger ones I always seem to marvel at. The Whales Tongue has always stood out to me with it's large blue leaf and has always gotten my attention.

The White Plumbago is a unique plant that has gotten my attention as of late. I am very familiar with standard blue color but the white was a new one for me. They seem to be thriving and enjoying the Texas sun.

The Cannas are in bloom and striking. The red leaves and the orange/red flowers I think is a remarkable combination. I would never have thought to put these two colors together but they are stunning. Everyone compliments them when they pass by. I had to feature these as they are definitely showing off today. These are the Canna Australis and they perform like a regular canna, they will die down and come back.

I had hoped to show off the front bed but it is not quite ready for it's photo debut. The Ligularia is just about back full grown and Fox Tail Fern has taken off and is thriving. The little Schizosentron are starting to take off as well and starting to "do their thing". All the ferns and the Japanese Aurelia are doing great too. Hopefully it will be ready soon for it's photo debut!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-23T11:29:00.000-07:00

I felt it appropriate to post a lily on "Easter Eve".

I love the Daylilies- I have them along one side of the walkway leading to the office. This is the Daylily Aztec Gold.

The Palo Verde 'Desert Museum' is one of my all time favorites. Like the name, palo verde, they are like green sticks and they bloom a yellow flower and I absolutely love them. I planted one near the gate and it is in full bloom and looks stunning in my opinion.

The Pedlianthus are in bloom- this one I have been anticipating since we got this in. It is a really different unique looking plant and the fact it blooms only makes it more intriguing to me. Michael says it is not technically a bloom but to me it looks like a bloom.

And last but not least is the Mexican Flame Vine. These just went into bloom as well. I have a few of these in the garden out front and those particular ones are not in bloom yet, but these are so I posted them. I think they are a pretty flower- a new vine for me.

Ga What?

2011-04-20T17:18:00.000-07:00

Gazania. That is what it's called. Bizarre name (to me anyway) but it has moved ranks to my new favorite. I even like the name. Gazania. I just like to say it. It is so pretty. The colors are so vibrant and the contrast of the colors of the petals with the leaves of the plant are a perfect combination. Apparently this is planted all over California but it was the first time for me to see it and I fell instantly in love.

Gazania.

Enjoy.

I wanted to share two others I had been waiting on to see what they were going to reveal and it was worth the wait. The Salvia 'Black and Blue' is stunning. I have placed one right by the door so I can see it all day. No wonder how it got it's name but it is really pretty and unique I thought. It grows about 3-4' and is nice as it can tolerate a few hours of shade. It is always so hard to find pretty blooming things that can stand the shade (of which Texas does not have a lot of....).

And last but certainly not least is the Desert Willow 'Bubba'. I was so excited to see this had opened up today. This variety has a little darker purple flower than the sp. and shows off a little more in my opinion.

I have captured some great butterfly shots that I am about ready to post- I was trying to get a variety of different ones but there seem to be two in particular that like to pose while the others keep flying away (like that little hummingbird I am determined to get in focus). Hopefully tomorrow I will have captured at least one more variety and can post. We just got some of the Almond Verbena in and there is one little butterfly that will not leave it's side. He will for sure make his debut.

Today's Favorites

2011-04-18T13:03:00.000-07:00

First of all I would like to send out a huge thank you to Lancashire Rose, and her incredible post on her blog, Rock Rose, about the nursery. If you have not visited her site, it is by far my favorite one to read. I look forward to her posts daily and she is an inspiration. She takes incredible photographs and always leaves me with more information about plants, gardening and the combination there of. http://wwwrockrose.blogspot.com/

I don't really have a theme today, I just went around and photographed the things that stood out to me today. I don't think I can ever nor will I ever get tired of the Spanish Lavender. I have it right by the door and do this on purpose so that I can see it pretty much all day long. It is so fragrant and full of bees and butterflies and is just a happy plant. We had sold out of them over the weekend but luckily for me, got more in this morning. My day is complete. =)

I think this is the most bizarre plant. It is pretty yet fierce. It has the berries and pretty little red flowers but will "bite" you and it means business. It is called Mahonia baeli.

The Copper Canyon Daisy...aaahhhh the fragrance. Love them. These arrived this morning and I put them in two place just so I can see them from basically every point in the nursery. They are just happy flowers.

The Yarrow Paprika- beautiful bright little blooms.

I will end today's post with the bloom spike of the Yucca rupicola twisted leaf. I have (im)patiently been waiting for this to open. I can't wait to see what it does. Today was the first day it looked a little different- hopefully it is ready to open soon.

Chilly Morning!!

2011-04-15T07:26:00.000-07:00

It's chilly out there but looks like it is going to be another beautiful day. The last few days have been incredible and the plants seem to be responding. We have butterflies everywhere- the Monarchs, Swallowtail and a few I don't know the identity of but all are having a grand time. The hummingbird is still buzzing around in the front area but still too quick for me to capture a good picture of him, but I am not giving up.

A few blooms I captured today- the Butterfly Iris which I never get tired of seeing (first photo).

The Calandrinia is so pretty- I have been anticipating this bloom for weeks!!! They are finally starting to open up. It is such a pretty contrast against the green/silver of the plant.

The Philadelphus Mock Orange is so pretty- it reminds me of the Dogwood blooms.

The Mexican Bird of Paradise continues to open up- the Caesalpinia gilliesii; truly one of my favorites.

The yellow yuccas, Hesperaloe parviflora 'Yellow', I think are just pretty- a subtle yet really unique color combination I think.

The Pomegranate 'Wonderful' is starting to bloom, I am excited about what is to follow- I love pomegranates!!!! Can't wait till the fruit is on and ripens!

And last but not least today is the Mexican Olive Tree. I finally got a shot of the bloom though I am not entirely happy with the shot but the wind started to kick up so inside I went.

In Bloom!!

2011-04-11T06:15:00.000-07:00

The Goldenball Lead Trees are in bloom!!!!!!

The 'Frazzle Dazzle' Dykia's are in bloom!!!!

And last but not least, the Pineapple Guavas are in bloom!!!

All are things I have been waiting to see!!! There are several I am still watching- the Bird of Paradise, Mexican Bird of Paradise- which I think is about to burst any day now- and a few others are coming out. The Pomegranate 'Wonderful' showed some color yesterday but I am going to give it another day I think to finish so it can completely show off and will post that along with the Mexican Olive; which is in bloom as well but I have yet to be able to capture a good photo of. The Twisted Leaf Yuccas are about ready to open as well, we have two kinds of them, green and a more silver/blue one. Michael isn't here right now to tell me the official names but when I post them I will have them. =) The front garden is almost ready for it's photo op, a few more days I think- the Ligularia are slow to rise but just about there- everything else though is happy and full and looking great. Will post soon. Hope you enjoy today's photos!!

Feeling Pink

2011-04-05T14:45:00.000-07:00

I just noticed that everything I was drawn to today was pink. I am so glad the wind has calmed down I don't hardly know what to do with myself. I thought we were all going to blow away yesterday. I enjoyed my morning walking around the nursery picking up things that had been laid down to protect it from falling yesterday- which was just about everything!!!! After I was done with that I went around trying to capture the hummingbird that is just too quick for me. There is one that is hanging around having a ball with all the flowers but I can't seem to capture him. If you look closely on the photo above with the citrus blooms you can see him- sadly this is the best shot I got of him. While out trying to capture him I was drawn it would seem to pink. The front garden is coming along but still not photo ready just yet though things are filling out and looking really pretty. Maybe next week. So for today, I went with pink.

The pink Double Knock Out Roses are screaming with color - so bright and happy!!!

The Pandorea jasminoides (a new favorite) is a lighter pink and harder to capture on the camera but I really like it so I included it.

The Cecile Bruner roses are climbing away and busting out with this warmer weather.

The pink and white salvia 'Theresa' I think is still my favorite though I love the 'Hot Lips' I must admit. Who can pick????

And lastly to round up my pink mood for the day is the Coral Bean which looks pink to me but Michael said is red when it opens up. I am throwing it in with my pinks cause it looks pink to me.

A Few Favorites From Today

2011-04-03T09:57:00.000-07:00

Mexican Bird of Paradise ready to bloom!!! Can't wait- one of my favorites!!!

The Oak Leaf Hydrangeas are starting to bloom.

The Japanese Maple I think looks beautiful in front of the Big Tooth Maple. Love the contrast!!!!

And last but not least, the Acanthus Mollis. Another of my favorites.

A few favorites of the day. Thought I'd share!!

Love This Weather!

2011-03-29T09:52:00.001-07:00

Golden Ball Lead Tree

Porter Weed

Bird of Paradise

Aloe Vera

Everything seems so happy with the chilly mornings and even though the rain we just got was slight, I think things are happier. I am so excited that the Golden Lead Ball Trees are getting ready to bloom!!! I can't wait to see those yellow golf balls (as I refer to them) hanging down. I also just love the Porter Weed. The blooms are so vibrant. I have them next to the Gold Mound Duranta and I think the gold makes the purple just pop. The other one I am waiting to see unveiled is the Bird of Paradise- slowly but surely I can see changes in the bloom. Last but not least on my list of favorites for the day is the Aloe Vera bloom. Simple yet beautiful.

My Newest Creation

2011-03-20T13:06:00.000-07:00

I just finished this planter today- I kinda like the way it turned out if I do say so myself. I have already had a few compliments today! I put in a Black Prince Echeveria, Variegated Society Garlic, Kalanchoe Beharensis (which is my favorite- it was in the movie Man On Fire that is probably one of my favorite movies of all time), Ice Plant- Aptenia cordifolia, and then Crassula Silver Dollars.

I love mixing the different things up. I planted the front beds but they have a way to go until they get photographed. I will post pics of those soon.

Too Cool Not To Post

2011-03-16T11:02:00.001-07:00

Busy tending to everything but saw this today and felt I had to post it. Just too pretty.

Enjoy.

It is called a Billbergia nutans.

Look Who Came Out to Play!

2011-03-13T12:26:00.001-07:00

I love this time of year when the butterflies and the bees come around. We have so many different plants that attract a variety of different bees, butterflies and even hummingbirds. I have been successful in capturing the bees and several different types of butterflies, though the hummingbirds have proven a bigger challenge for me. Today I had so much fun following this Swallowtail. He was obviously very happy going between the different Milkweed plants. I had so much fun capturing him. While I was watching him and letting him pose for the camera I saw a Monarch. I wasn't able to capture him but I thought it was too early for those but I know it was one. Hopefully he will come back today and I can capture his photo as well. Hope you enjoy the photos half as much as I did taking them.

Have a blooming good day!

2011-03-10T06:12:00.000-08:00

Jerusalem Sage

Spider Aloe

Mexican Thornless Lime

Mountain Laurel, love these blooms, they look like bunches of grapes

Aloe petricola bloom

I have been having fun running around taking photos of all the new blooms so I thought I'd share. Have to admit loving this weather and crossing everything I have we don't have another freeze. I am not a winter person, hence I live in Texas. It is fun to visit for a weekend or maybe just maybe a week but other than that, I am a not a fan of the cold. Things have been really busy making new buds, flowers, growing, it is so exciting.

I am anxiously awaiting all the budding plants and trees - everything seems ready to pop. I have already posted my favorite, the Lion's Tail, (the Leonotis) but am starting to wonder as things start to open it might have some competition...

I love my new camera I have to say yet again, the difference in the photos is amazing. Thank you again to my sweet husband not only for the camera, but the new lens as well.

Pink Crystals!!!

2011-03-07T14:16:00.000-08:00

How pretty are these? I love them! They are called Ruby Crystal Grass or 'Pink Crystals'- I never stop learning new things. My favorite part about them is they stay rather small. They look so pretty blowing in the wind, faint little blades and a subtle yet pretty little bloom of pink (which happens to be my favorite color). Just thought I'd share.

Meet Peat

2011-02-27T11:54:00.001-08:00

Meet Peat. Peat as in Peat Moss. He walked up to Michael one day at the nursery about a month ago and I don't know who adopted who but he's ours and we are his now. He is the sweetest most lovable kitten I have ever had. This is a photo of Peat up in one of the Monterrey Oak trees, he flies up there in about 3 seconds flat. When he is not up in the tree, he is helping us water and weed, or greeting a customer (all of which have fallen in love with him). The photo below is a pretty good summation of how he spends his day when not helping us or greeting the customers.

He has a bed that I have brought for him and he goes between the bed and the chair. Normally half of his body is hanging off the chair as he sleeps.

Here is Peat helping me in the greenhouse. Don't know what I would do without him.

Just had to share.

Hey Bud!

2011-02-23T16:09:00.000-08:00

Pomegranate 'Wonderful'

Big Tooth Maple

Things are getting ready to pop! I can't wait! It is incredible to watch things change so rapidly. I can't wait to see them take off. We have a few new things that I haven't seen in full swing yet that I am anxious to see how they look when they are full of leaves and/or flowers. It is so fun to watch the what for weeks has just looked like sticks change and grow. I snapped a few shots of the buds getting ready to show their true selves. There are a few that are really changing but I haven't quite gotten the right angle on the camera, maybe tomorrow. I attached the Big Tooth Maple and the Pomegranate 'Wonderful'. Still trying to capture the Wisteria, Philadelphus and fruit trees- all are full of buds but for whatever reason the shots are not coming out very good- operator error I am certain. I will try again tomorrow. Enjoy for now.

How Pretty Are These?

2011-02-22T15:46:00.001-08:00

One thing that I love about having the nursery is all the pretty plants and flowers. I have learned so much in the short time I have been doing this. My husband I feel knows everything, but I am still a work in progress and am loving every second of it. Today we got in these really unusual pretty flowers, they are called Helleborus. I love them!!!! I put some under the Fatsias and the color combination looks pretty I think. I am sure I will keep moving them but that is where they are for now.

Things are starting to bud and starting to wake up and get ready for spring. They say there will be another freeze- just please not one like the three days of sitting in the teens I hope. That was painful. I am ready for spring, make no mistake. I do not think I am alone in this.... I think everyone is ready for spring.

Big Tooth Maples!!

2010-12-01T10:45:00.001-08:00

Well, the Big Tooth Maples are in and they are spectacular!!!! I love all the color!!! The leaves are just brilliant. I love the yellows, the reds, the turning of the colors. I am trying to figure out where to plant one now. Just thought I'd share a few shots of them.

Kalanchoe Watch 2010

2010-11-20T14:56:00.000-08:00

Well, I have been obsessively watching the Kalanchoes - waiting as patiently as I can to see them bloom. So far, they have not yet, but they are getting close. The Fantastic's are turning the cooler red colors which is really pretty and the thyrsiflora's have finally started to throw up the blooms spikes. I took a few pictures today. I will post more pictures when the blooms open up.

Pair of Monarchs

2010-11-03T13:44:00.000-07:00

There was a pair of Monarchs yesterday that were hanging around the nursery all day yesterday. I tried to get photos of the two of them together but they were not posing at the same time. I got about 60 shots of them individually though that were good I thought. They were all over the Butterfly Weed / Milk Weed. They would go over to the Lavender for a second or the Salvia but obviously were having a better time with the Butterfly Weed. I took some pics and selected my three favorites to post. I am going out today to take pictures of the plants- everything is in full color with the cooler weather- It is absolutely beautiful out there. I love this time of year. We had a guy come in today asking about the Little Ollies- said he could see the shimmering silver from across the street. They look stunning. Hope you enjoyed the photos!!!

Not too Windy for the Bees and the Butterflies!

2010-10-28T11:46:00.000-07:00

Well I got some shots I am happy with today. Who knew- as windy as it was today they were still very active. The white butterfly was all over the Lavender Provence. He was so light and the lavender itself so light it was hard to capture a striking photo of the both of them. The bees I think showed up great on the Milk Weed as well as on the Spanish Lavender. I got that one other butterfly on the Mystic Spires Salvia. He was really interesting. It was as if he had "horns" on his wings. It was odd. He was quick too. He was all over the place.

Love That White!

2010-10-27T06:26:00.000-07:00

We just got in the prettiest new Salvia leucantha- I love it!!! I took a picture of it to show- photos lately have been really hard with all this wind!!!! Hopefully the wind is gone for a while. This new Salvia is so pretty though- I have never seen it- it is white with little pink blooms at the tips. It is just one of the prettiest things I have seen. I have been putting together my next bed to arrange and now that this is here I am redoing it all. Ha ha. I want this to be in there and I think I want it to be the focal point. It looks really pretty next to the Little Ollie which I love. I think you could put anything next to that and I would love it.

I took a picture of the bloom but it is just one of the prettiest things I have seen lately.

The wind has put a damper in my photo taking, though I have been having fun just experimenting with the new lens. It is amazing the clarity I get on some of the shots. I am trying to learn all the things my camera can do- I have yet to be able to capture the hummingbirds though they are still fighting over the Mexican Honeysuckle at the back. There are two and they really go at it. Maybe today I will capture them. I have it on the "runner/sport" speed so you would think I could get it, but no.

Enjoy my new favorite:

Pumped up for Pumpkins!

2010-10-15T09:48:00.000-07:00

Ok- I know it is weird to be excited about pumpkins but we just got some yesterday and they are so cool!!! bue, striped, white, Cinderella, Pokeyman (they named it not me haha) and then the cute little bitty ones. How fun. I posted some pics on my Facebook page for the nursery but thought I'd post some here too- they are too fun!

A Chill in the Air and I Love It!

2010-10-14T12:45:00.000-07:00

There is a chill in the air and can I just say I LOVE it!?!?!?! The plants seem to be responding as well. My one little echeveria is turning a pretty coral color and the new Kalanchoe fantastics are turning this really pretty ruby color. It is so neat to watch things change. I wish now I had the before photo for the Kalanchoe! My husband said they would turn, I just didn't think that fast. I have been having a great morning walking around watering everything. It is so pretty outside. The Monarchs seem to have come and gone, I have not seen one for about three days now, though the dragonflies and bees are still full force buzzing around. I will post a photo of the one echeveria and then the Kalanchoe, we have two - the fantastic and the thyrisflora but the fantastic is turning colors. Both are really pretty. I am deciding what to put in the front planter. I keep changing my mind.

Love It, Now to Learn How to Use It....

2010-10-09T11:24:00.000-07:00

My sweet husband got me a new lens for my camera for my birthday. Since we opened up this nursery I have been having a blast shooting pictures of the butterflies, bees, dragonflies etc... along with plants, blooms, stalks and leaves. There are several photos that I was always unable to get due to my lack of skills for the most part and due to the lens I have. Well, for my birthday last week I opened up one of the best presents I think I have ever gotten- a new lens. I am having so much fun with it!!!! I will post a few shots but there is a lot I have to learn. Off to shoot!!!

The bee with the Mystic Spires Salvia and the Dragonfly perched on top of a blade of the Dianella.

It's Like Christmas!

2010-10-05T11:38:00.000-07:00

I know I have said it before but every time a truck pulls in here to unload I feel like it is Christmas time. I love seeing the new plants. Now, of course this means I have a whole new batch of things to learn about- what likes sun, what likes shade, what needs to be watered daily, what needs to wait, how tall this will grow, etc... I could go on and on, but I love it and am not complaining. Who knew when I stopped the "corporate world" and entered the "garden world" that I would enjoy it so much. I knew I would like it, but never did I imagine how much. Today I got something called a Shrimp Plant. How cool is that???? Who knew there was a plant called a Shrimp Plant, and well, if you have seen it, you understand the name- it looks like big jumbo shrimp hanging off this plant. Hysterical. We do not grow that one here so it was a total new thing for me to learn along with a few others we got in. I love unloading and seeing all the new things, deciding what is going to go where; what blends best next to what; what is a good compliment to line it up next to. Then comes my second favorite part, picking what I want to go plant.

Right now we are in the process of building some beds so I am planning my next two gardens but I have it all set in my head. I can't wait. I make my daily rounds and see how everyone is doing, snap a few pictures of the butterflies, dragonflies, bees, praying mantis, beetles, lizards, grass hoppers, lady bugs, you name it, I take their picture. I still have not captured the hummingbird- I have lots of shots of a blur but nothing you can make out what it is. As of late I have seen this one dragonfly that is red. He is so cool looking and he follows me. It is so funny. He literally follows me but when I snap his picture I get nothing. Just a red blur. One person told me it was a hummingbird dragonfly.... hummmm..... I know I am new to all this but I am not sure I am buying that one.... but who knows- maybe they exist.

Ever heard of one?

I am going to post a picture of the Shrimp Plant- it might be common to a lot of people but to me I just thought it was one of the coolest things! I will also post my little ladybug I found today. She just sat there while I snapped. I get those all the time but normally they are on me and pictures of a ladybug on me aren't that exciting so I finally got one on a plant. She was hanging out on an expired Salvia bloom. Hope you enjoy!

Bee-autiful Butterflies!!

2010-10-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

Had to share- the butterflies were just too fun this morning. It was if they were posing for me. There was one that I just couldn't get - a bright yellow one- he was really friendly and kept flying up around me but wouldn't pose haha. I hope you enjoy the photos- it seems everything loves these Mystic Spires Salvia- the bees, the dragonflies, lady bugs and the butterflies. Not sure if they are like that with all types of Salvia, but they sure do like this stuff!!!

Who knew?

2010-09-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

Who knew there were three types of bees? Not me. I do now but was totally clueless to this. George, our neighbor at the nursery, pointed this out to us the other day that we have not one, not two, but THREE types of bees hanging out with our Salvia. We have this incredible Mystic Spires Salvia that is just breathtaking. I posted a photo of a bee on it so you can see. I love to sit and watch them - they are much better photography subjects than the hummingbirds that I have still been unable to catch and the dragonflies, who I can get one at a time while they sit but the tandem ones, not great shots nor when in flight.

Everything is blooming right now and it is just so pretty. I have had so much fun doing this nursery with my husband. He is very patient in teaching me about all the plants , what does well where and how big this or that gets etc.... as well as about the plants themselves. I was just informed a few minutes ago that after I have learned about everything out there, we are getting about 20 new items tomorrow. Just when I get to where I am feeling comfortable BAM more to learn. Keeps me on my toes. That's for sure. I am not complaining, I am excited. I love putting things together and setting up the little gardens around- they aren't all done - which is what brought up the conversation- I was telling him I was trying to decide what to include to finish this one garden I had started the other day when he said, why don't you wait until the truck gets here tomorrow and decide then. Well who knew. More stuff. It's like Christmas when those trucks come in - I stand back there watching them unload and make all my comments and ooh and ahh over things ha ha. The drivers I am sure think I am nuts. I can't wait to see it all- apparently lots of new fun stuff coming in- Spider Lilies (one of my favorites), Variegated Dianella, Firespike- just the name itself - can't wait to see what that is going to look like and then a bunch of other stuff. I will take some pictures and post them after I finish organizing everything- I am all about the rows. ha ha ha. I told my husband that is one thing I honestly enjoy doing- organizing the rows, arranging by color etc... I take great pride in my rows. It's the little things in life.... ha ha.

Dragonflies or Avatar???

2010-09-29T06:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday as I walked around the nursery watching the dragonflies chasing each other it reminded me of the end of the movie Avatar- it was mesmerizing. They were swooping down, soaring high and fast, siting as if to stall mid-air. Attacking one another, hiding for the right moment to go after each other all the time making this buzzing noise and there I was right in the middle of it all. It was straight out of a scene from the movie I tell you. I found myself just staring. I went and grabbed a camera but they are so fast and to really catch it all you really need a video camera, I got a few shots but did not capture the true essence of what was happening around me. The butterflies were back yesterday as well- the Swallowtail was buzzing around the citrus trees and I got some great photos- or so I thought.... I had taken the disc out to check out my photos of the dragonflies and well, forgot to put it in. So frustrating- I had taken so many great shots and gotten a really good close up of a bright yellow grasshopper. The weather has been so pretty here in Austin the last two days that it is hard to find anything to do inside that just can't wait. (like writing this- hence blogging this morning instead). I spent the day out in the yard, planting my garden, figuring out what else to plant and weeding. It is so relaxing to just be outside. I am posting a few of the pictures of the dragonflies wars though I don't think they do it justice.

Fall Has Arrived!!

2010-09-27T08:14:00.000-07:00

Well it is here, fall has come. I can't believe it. We just got electricity and air conditioning in the office and now we need a heater. Isn't that just how it goes??? Kinda like this morning when I am racing out the door, put down my coffee for a SPLIT second and turn around to find my dog is slurping it up. Nice. Hope she enjoyed it. I finally got to the nursery and everything just looks happy. The weather is cooler and the plants are definitely applauding. The succulents are starting to turn colors already. The bees don't seem to notice much, they are buzzing around as always and the dragonflies continue to chase each other. I have been on the lookout for the butterflies but they seem to have shrunk in numbers the last two days. It is just gorgeous out. The windows are open and the citrus are turning- little yellow lemons everywhere and a whole new round of blooms which is making the air around the office intoxicating. I went and did my morning check up and two of the sweet olives are in bloom. How such a little flower can put off such an incredible smell I don't know but I love it and don't want it to stop!!