A little lavender...

A quick trip out today for other items had us returning with 3 small French Lavender plants (Lavandula dentata candicans) for the garden.

Ever since we visited The Lavender Fields in Valley Center, California, Rosanne has been wanting lavender in our garden. (Photos of our visit) I must admit, I am a big fan of lavender, but the shady nature of our garden makes it problematical.

These three plants are a trial. If they survive, we will add as much as she wants and as much as the sun allows. I placed them in the front bed, which probably gets the most sun of any place in the garden. It tends to stay dryer there, as well, which the lavender should like. We shall see what happens.

There are blue flowers...

...and there are BLUE flowers!

Th Garden Djinn has some amazing pictures of their blue delphiniums.

There is no need to adjust the color on your monitor. (SMILE)

Click the photo for more pictures

Event

Botanical Drawing Workshop 

Every Tuesday in June

11:00am

Sooky Goldman Nature Center

Interested in accurately drawing and/or painting plants, while learning more about our native flora in a relaxed indoor environment? Join an ongoing gathering of artists of all levels. Group size is limited. Reservations required 323-656-3899. 4 hours WODOC

Gardenia scenting the air...

The Gardenias (Gardenia jasminoides) throughout the neighborhood, and in my own backyard are blooming like crazy this week.

Click for larger image

I have always liked their creamy whiteness and incredible smell. As much as I would like to, though, I don't dare bring them inside. I once put a bloom in a vase on my desk and within 2 hours I had developed a tremendous sinus headache. I don't have many allergies, but the gardenias send my nose into fits. I guess I will just continue to enjoy them outside, though.