Elizabeth

Here in Ithaca it is approaching the peak bloom time for magnolias and this year has been no disappointment in the abundance of blossoms, including this selection known as 'Elizabeth'. "She" is a hybrid between M. acuminata and M. denudata that originated at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The lemony-yellow flowers of this regal beauty are spectacular and slightly fragrant.

The relatively cool and damp weather has also heightened the quality of the cherries. There is a streak of Prunus 'Accolade' (a hybrid between P. sargentii and P. subhirtella) on campus that has been in flower for at least a week. This explosion of color might not be the tidal basin of Washington, DC, but it is pretty darned impressive nonetheless. Oh, and don't you love the horizontal lenticels (strips) that rip across the bark of cherries, particularly when they are young? Call it 'quiet interest'.

I wonder what the next few days of spring will bring? Even if I have a feeling what is going to be in flower, I still cannot help but be surprised. Someday, I will have my own garden, where I will be able to cultivate a zillion plants 'till my heart is content and I will be surprised each day by something interesting and fascinating.