What’s blooming in your garden?
It’s February and time for the burst that is spring in the Pacific Northwest. The witch hazel bloomed beautifully for the first year since we moved it in 2007. We have 3 or 4 crocuses left from the 1000 that were planted in 2004 (darn those squirrels!). The hellebores are their usual colorful sight — except that I wish those flowers face UP when they bloom.
Indian Plum -- note other trees are bare!
The real harbinger of spring for me, however, is the Indian plum. As you drive along the byways of Oregon in winter, all is bare stems and moss. But yesterday, I glimpsed it! The first fresh leaves on all that sleeping stuff belong to the Indian Plum, so when you notice them popping out, spring is on the way! And, the best part is those lovely leaves make an excellent peppery salad addition. Celebrate the first green of Oregon — the Indian Plum!
Hi Maryellen,
I love Indian plum, too. My favorite moment in spring is finding these beautiful white pendants flowering in the woods like a filigree lace curtain - so pretty! I did not know the foliage was edible. I shall have to try it - quick, while the leaves are young and tender. I just bought a young Indian plum and will put it in the ground soon. Beautiful photograph that captures the delicacy of the flowers.