Scottish Rock Garden Club Forum

General Subjects => General Forum => Topic started by: Ragged Robin on March 28, 2009, 12:51:52 PM

Title: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 28, 2009, 12:51:52 PM
Gloomy day in the clouds.....

How many butterflies?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on March 28, 2009, 01:09:50 PM
Two lovers enjoying the warm sunshine?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 28, 2009, 01:24:31 PM
Thanks for that - 10 out 10 Mark, what butterflies are they?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on March 28, 2009, 01:33:33 PM
Are the British?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on March 28, 2009, 01:38:50 PM
Robin lives in Switzerland, Mark, so I'm guessing not UK butterflies!
Interesting that the leading egdes of the front sets of wings are different... would this be the difference between male and female?

Robin,  may I ask you to put your location in your sginature box so it shows on all your posts?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 28, 2009, 01:42:18 PM
No Mark...they like canoodling alpine meadows in the summer!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on March 28, 2009, 01:46:31 PM
Don't we all!!!!   :-*
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on March 28, 2009, 01:55:17 PM
No Mark...they like canoodling alpine meadows in the summer!
Chance would be a fine thing  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 28, 2009, 02:01:38 PM
Robin lives in Switzerland, Mark, so I'm guessing not UK butterflies!
Interesting that the leading egdes of the front sets of wings are different... would this be the difference between male and female?

Robin,  may I ask you to put your location in your sginature box so it shows on all your posts?

Which is male and which is female then? Seems the one at the front is more pushy!

Added my signature Maggi
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carol Shaw on March 28, 2009, 02:08:30 PM
No Mark...they like canoodling alpine meadows in the summer!

Chance would be a fine thing... still David & I are off to Austria in June  ;D :-* ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on March 28, 2009, 02:09:25 PM
No Mark...they like canoodling alpine meadows in the summer!

Chance would be a fine thing... still David & I are off to Austria in June  ;D :-* ;D

Where there's life there's hope, eh, Carol??  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on March 28, 2009, 02:11:33 PM

Which is male and which is female then? Seems the one at the front is more pushy!

Added my signature Maggi
thanks, Robin!
 
I'm having bother seeing how the body in the front, complete with antennae, is connected at all to either ofthe two sets of wings behind...... perhaps I need to get out more.... or stay in more.... :-\ :-[
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on March 28, 2009, 02:12:47 PM
Appropriately in a sunflower, Apollo (Parnassius apollo) but I have to confess I did a web search to check!  
The first butterfly I photographed was one of these, in the Pyrenees.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 28, 2009, 02:14:04 PM
No Mark...they like canoodling in alpine meadows in the summer!

Chance would be a fine thing... still David & I are off to Austria in June  ;D :-* ;D

The butterflies above obviously thought 'chance' was a very fine thing!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carol Shaw on March 28, 2009, 02:14:13 PM
Where there's life there's hope, eh, Carol??  ;D

You've got it Maggi! We've got flights from Aberdeen via Amsterdam to Vienna. 3 nights there and then on the train to Zell an See and up to Kaprun by bus. We have stayed there before in both the summer and the winter so know what to expect in terms of walking (which is sort of important for me now  :( ) So there will be lots of Alpine meadows for us to walk hand in hand through  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 28, 2009, 02:18:42 PM
Appropriately in a sunflower, Apollo (Parnassius apollo) but I have to confess I did a web search to check!  
The first butterfly I photographed was one of these, in the Pyrenees.

Is this how butterflies Apollogise?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on March 28, 2009, 02:19:22 PM
OMG! (to both of the last two) ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 28, 2009, 02:24:19 PM
Is this a clue for across or down!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 28, 2009, 02:52:34 PM
Where there's life there's hope, eh, Carol??  ;D

You've got it Maggi! We've got flights from Aberdeen via Amsterdam to Vienna. ..... ;D

Which flight is this and where's it going?  I need some sun.....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carol Shaw on March 28, 2009, 02:54:11 PM
Which flight is this and where's it going?  I need some sun.....
We're flying to Vienna and then up to Kaprun but not until 6 June... don't fancy wading through snow drifts anymore
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on March 28, 2009, 03:25:40 PM
Not the bum of the flightle bee, Robin.... a humming-bird hawk moth?

I've been looking up your Apollos ( so to speak!) and I discover that they are highly variable, so not a male /female difference in the wings edsges, just natural variablility. All very interesting and not something I would have found out if not for you setting the puzzle  :D  The Apollos are listed as being "vulnerable"  and are seldom seen in the Valais before the last week of April, I read....so you should shortly be looking out for them this year, eh?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 28, 2009, 04:16:59 PM
 ;) Thanks for the info on both the Apollo butterfly and the flighty thing (I was fascinated with it's similarity to a humming bird in flight) - I've leant a lot from Member's forum and it makes things less puzzling than trying to find them out in French!  Few if no English publications here - but lots of mountain-speak!

Hope someone will pose a puzzle for me to solve if they have the inclination - tired out and soaking wet after a morning of pruning....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 28, 2009, 04:45:04 PM
Appropriately in a sunflower, Apollo (Parnassius apollo) but I have to confess I did a web search to check!  
The first butterfly I photographed was one of these, in the Pyrenees.

Tony you won the prize for naming the butterfly even though you cheated! Now I shall enjoy it even more with Maggi's and your info and hopefully a bit of sun.  The sunflower of that name was planted by the birds in thanks for feeding them avidly over the winter and now we have more seeds to give them - I shall call out 'Parnassius' when I see a similar sight!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on March 28, 2009, 04:47:26 PM
The humming bird hawk moth reminds me of a time in Austria when I was sitting on a balcony trying to photograph one. It always moved just as I pressed the button and I wasted a lot of film but got plenty of petunia pictures :(. Digi cameras are so much cheaper.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lori S. on March 28, 2009, 04:52:21 PM
What an incredibly tiny hummingbird hawk moth   - dwarfed by the phlox flowers!  (Ours appear to be almost the size of hummingbirds.)  Wonderful to see!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 28, 2009, 05:04:39 PM
The humming bird hawk moth reminds me of a time in Austria when I was sitting on a balcony trying to photograph one. It always moved just as I pressed the button and I wasted a lot of film but got plenty of petunia pictures :(. Digi cameras are so much cheaper.

It took me ages to go digital but I love my Canon PowerShot S3IS even though I want more zoom (not digital)  The shot of the humming bird hawk moth only came about because I happened to be focused!!!!!!

Just for a night cap as we have one hours less sleep tonight....

What grows like a green alien emerging from the forest floor in the Alpine Spring?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on March 28, 2009, 09:18:41 PM
That's Butterbur, or a Swiss equivalent? Petasites hybridus or P. albidus.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on March 28, 2009, 11:20:24 PM
Here's a little puzzle for you if its still rainy.
I entered this pic in a competition.  First I had to find a name for the butterfly.  It could be one you have seen locally.  Do its wings reflect the sky?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on March 29, 2009, 06:15:43 AM
Mirror blue ... or in the case of Lancashire ... mirror murky grey?   ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 29, 2009, 01:28:33 PM
That's Butterbur, or a Swiss equivalent? Petasites hybridus or P. albidus.
;D Thanks so much for identifying the Butterbur in the forest, David, - it's extraordinary watching them grow out of the forest floor like fungi, almost overnight.  It is not mentioned in my flora book of wild alpine flowers - wonder how it got its name?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 29, 2009, 01:36:48 PM
Here's a little puzzle for you if its still rainy.
I entered this pic in a competition.  First I had to find a name for the butterfly.  It could be one you have seen locally.  Do its wings reflect the sky?

Did you win first prize Tony?  You should have , it's a beautiful shot (I think I have a photo of it from Italy but the only blue butterfly I have caught here is the Adonis Blue (?) in my patch of meadow grasses - it was so enjoying fast food it was almost impossible to get near it!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 29, 2009, 01:51:59 PM
Mirror blue ... or in the case of Lancashire ... mirror murky grey?   ;D

Greyer and greyer, Cliff, Lancashire can't possibly be as grey as this?  Now you see why I started Puzzles! Please send some colour to me!


Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on March 29, 2009, 02:09:53 PM
Butterbur is very common round here where it grows under trees alongside rivers. It is one of the first wild flowers to come out. I don't know how it got its name but that also applies to many common plant names.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carol Shaw on March 29, 2009, 02:16:43 PM
Ah but I've got an answer for you...

The name Butterbur is supposed to have been given it because formerly these large leaves were used to wrap butter in during hot weather.  ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on March 29, 2009, 02:20:34 PM
Burrrrr
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 29, 2009, 02:29:46 PM
Butterbur is very common round here where it grows under trees alongside rivers. It is one of the first wild flowers to come out. I don't know how it got its name but that also applies to many common plant names.

Strange they like two such different environments, David, what trees are along the river where you are?  The Butterbur I photographed was in the leaf litter from forest pines, birches, beech...no water except underground melt water?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 29, 2009, 02:33:06 PM
Ah but I've got an answer for you...

The name Butterbur is supposed to have been given it because formerly these large leaves were used to wrap butter in during hot weather.  ;D ;D


Anne, it's wonderful to have that connection with how plants were named - was tickled pink you knew it!  Now roll on the hot weather so I can try wrapping my Swiss butter in the leaves - but not sure when the real leaves appear? ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carol Shaw on March 29, 2009, 02:50:50 PM
Anne, it's wonderful to have that connection with how plants were named - was tickled pink you knew it!  Now roll on the hot weather so I can try wrapping my Swiss butter in the leaves - but not sure when the real leaves appear? ::)

Anne possibly did know the answer as well :) Leaves appear after the plant has flowered.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 29, 2009, 03:01:09 PM
Anne, it's wonderful to have that connection with how plants were named - was tickled pink you knew it!  Now roll on the hot weather so I can try wrapping my Swiss butter in the leaves - but not sure when the real leaves appear? ::)

Anne possibly did know the answer as well :) Leaves appear after the plant has flowered.

Sorry Carol!....I was so impressed I got my mames mumbled up! I will look out for the Utterly butterly leaves
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on March 29, 2009, 03:04:06 PM
The ground is generally moist and humus rich but with deciduous trees like alder, willow and birch.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 29, 2009, 03:09:35 PM
The ground is generally moist and humus rich but with deciduous trees like alder, willow and birch.

Maybe birch is the common link, David - humus rich as well?...  talking of which what is best to add to an raised alpine bulb bed which is sinking in the snow melt? 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on March 29, 2009, 05:08:01 PM
Here's a little puzzle for you if its still rainy.
I entered this pic in a competition.  First I had to find a name for the butterfly.  It could be one you have seen locally.  Do its wings reflect the sky?
I would say common blue (Polyommatus icarus)? Too much blue near the body for the adonis blue. I would be extremely surprised to see apollos much before June anywhere in the Alps. I saw them in July in the Italian Alps in 1988. I have bred them in the greenhouse on Sedum album. The larvae over-winter fully formed but still inside the egg.

Here's some pics of Parnassius apollo in the greenhouse in 2003 and the small apollo (P. phoebus) in 2004. The female apollo has much more translucent wings.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on March 29, 2009, 05:22:16 PM
Beautiful.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on March 29, 2009, 05:25:32 PM
'talking of which what is best to add to an raised alpine bulb bed which is sinking in the snow melt? '

A mixture of humus and grit with added bonemeal.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 29, 2009, 05:45:12 PM
Here's a little puzzle for you if its still rainy.
I entered this pic in a competition.  First I had to find a name for the butterfly.  It could be one you have seen locally.  Do its wings reflect the sky?
I would say common blue (Polyommatus icarus)? Too much blue near the body for the adonis blue. I would be extremely surprised to see apollos much before June anywhere in the Alps. I saw them in July in the Italian Alps in 1988. I have bred them in the greenhouse on Sedum album. The larvae over-winter fully formed but still inside the egg.

Here's some pics of Parnassius apollo in the greenhouse in 2003 and the small apollo (P. phoebus) in 2004. The female apollo has much more translucent wings.

Anthony, how amazing to see such beautiful photos from your greenhouse of the Apollo butterfly.  I took my photo of the two entwined on July 18th and had never seen such an amazing display of translucent wings close up.  What other butterflies do you breed in Dunblane?


Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 29, 2009, 05:46:43 PM
'talking of which what is best to add to an raised alpine bulb bed which is sinking in the snow melt? '

A mixture of humus and grit with added bonemeal.

Thanks David - will do!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 29, 2009, 05:49:10 PM
Here's a little puzzle for you if its still rainy.
I entered this pic in a competition.  First I had to find a name for the butterfly.  It could be one you have seen locally.  Do its wings reflect the sky?

Found it!  Think this is the farfalla dello specchio....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on March 29, 2009, 10:01:50 PM
Hmm
I hope I already made it clear that I am no butterfly expert!  (I do apollogise!)
However I used this web site
http://www.guypadfield.com/
and came up with Idas Blue although there are several very similar species.  Take a look and see what you think.
Mine was photographed near Zermatt in early July.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 30, 2009, 08:22:41 AM
Thanks for the butterfly website link, Tony, it is a great source of info and beautiful photos - even has a butterfly quiz!!  I'm definitely no expert but love watching butterflies wherever I happen to be and and am amazed at their diversity.  When Anthony said he thought the butterfly I photographed on the vetch here was not the Adonis blue  I too thought maybe it was the Iolas blue as it looked very similar to the one in the webpage and I am wondering if anyone else has a photo of it?

(can't find out how to add two quotes in one reply - I've tried copying and pasting but my first post disppears!)

My Alpine meadow attracts a whole host of insects at different times.  Here is another on scabious, it's favourite food?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on March 30, 2009, 11:30:02 AM
Robin for the two quote option, copy and paste into the quote box provided by clicking on the "yellow  bubble" icon second right from the options above the text box.

I know so few butterflies and moths it is ridiculous.... but since I'm writing anyway.... I think that black and red chap may be a Burnet Moth  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 30, 2009, 11:55:05 AM
Robin for the two quote option, copy and paste into the quote box provided by clicking on the "yellow  bubble" icon second right from the options above the text box.

Thanks for the 'quote' unquote help Maggi.....

I know so few butterflies and moths it is ridiculous.... but since I'm writing anyway.... I think that black and red chap may be a Burnet Moth  ???

I feel the same but my appetite to know more about butterflies and moths has been whet!  This site could be interesting for you on a rainy day if you have time....the puzzling thing about the Moth I photographed is it has no spots like the Burnet ID in below ::):

http://www.butterfly-conservation.org/downloads/1991/butterfly_and_moth_identification_charts.html

....and for anyone with children, grandchildren or just childlike curiosity look under the learn tab...the puzzles under play and learn are great!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: WimB on March 30, 2009, 03:37:22 PM
Hi Robin,

it probably is Zygaena minos from the same genus as Zygaena filipendulae (the six-spotted burnet) or one of the many subspecies of Zygaena filipendulae.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 30, 2009, 04:05:31 PM
Yes, that's it Wim - Zygaena minos - I found it in Wikipedia but all in German so Double Dutch to me!  Will look further to find Swiss/English site...

It's wonderful to be able to name things you see and enjoy - pronouncing the names is something else!  :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: WimB on March 30, 2009, 04:45:03 PM
When I was younger (not that I'm old) I was very interested in all Lepidoptera's, it would seem I still have retained some of that knowledge.
There's a Wikipedia page about it in Dutch too but I guess that's even more Double Dutch  ;) then German for you. I don't know any site in English which discusses this species.

It's always the hardest thing to pronounce the names correctly, the same with plantnames.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 30, 2009, 05:05:49 PM
I see what you mean, Wim, I think I need a break!

Amphiesmenoptera is an insect superorder, established by Willi Hennig in his revision of insect taxonomy for two sister orders: Lepidoptera and Trichoptera.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 30, 2009, 07:17:19 PM
Phyteuma spicatum (I thought it was blue grass in the forest edge!) What was it used for in the 16 century?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on March 30, 2009, 07:23:15 PM
Lori, great photo, looks like an alien creature!!
Isn't it Phyteuma spicatum ssp. coeruleum ...... plain P. spicatum being creamy yellow?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on March 31, 2009, 12:24:25 AM
Rampion was (apparently) cultivated as a kitchen herb.  Herbalists proposed its use for 'inflamation of the mouth' and 'throte wartes'.  BUT I'm not sure it was this species they refer to ???
Amazing what you find on the internet!
Here are two more phyteumas seen in the Valais
Phyteuma orbiculare - a meadow plant
Phyteuma globularifolia - a mountain plant ... and tiny!

Finally a little puzzle for you ....
Where did I see this traffic jam from my window? :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 31, 2009, 08:03:53 AM
Rampion was (apparently) cultivated as a kitchen herb.  Herbalists proposed its use for 'inflamation of the mouth' and 'throte wartes'.  BUT I'm not sure it was this species they refer to ???
Amazing what you find on the internet!
Here are two more phyteumas seen in the Valais
Phyteuma orbiculare - a meadow plant
Phyteuma globularifolia - a mountain plant ... and tiny!

'throte wartes' ??????????? sounds terrible!  I love old English...

I shall look out for the other species of Phyteuma you have posted, Tony, on my walks with Jazzy (our dog) - it is such an intriguing looking plant!
My flore des montagnes book says Phyteuma orbiculare was eaten like little turnips in the 16 Century before the introduction of potatoes which 'dethroned' them!

Quote
]Finally a little puzzle for you ....

Where did I see this traffic jam from my window? :)

Oh er?...I think I'll phone a friend......
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carol Shaw on March 31, 2009, 08:11:17 AM
Finally a little puzzle for you ....
Where did I see this traffic jam from my window? :)

Tony looks like Austria to me though I couldn't guess where  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 31, 2009, 09:32:02 AM
I thought so too, Carol, thinking the people in red were dressed in costume...are they looking at sheep or goats?  I have tried zooming in but it's all blurry.... that sculpture behind is a clue has got me on another track...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on March 31, 2009, 10:16:21 AM
It's not Huddersfield anyway! ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on March 31, 2009, 10:27:34 AM
They dare not let goats out alone in Huddersfield, David!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on March 31, 2009, 10:37:39 AM
.... or sheep :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 31, 2009, 12:25:35 PM
Nothing is ever black and white -  ;D

oops forgot the pic
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on March 31, 2009, 12:36:48 PM
Where did I see this traffic jam from my window? :) 

I recognise those goats and so I would guess at Zermatt??
(and that was before I saw Robin's there's-often-a-clue picture from the Valais)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on March 31, 2009, 12:45:47 PM
Great two-tone goat.... very stylish!
Robin, can we see a picture of Jazzy, please? Lots of petlovers around here!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carol Shaw on March 31, 2009, 12:55:06 PM
I thought so too, Carol, thinking the people in red were dressed in costume...are they looking at sheep or goats?  I have tried zooming in but it's all blurry.... that sculpture behind is a clue has got me on another track...

Definitely goats, the folk in red are walkers complete with rucksacks and cameras... possibly and organised group all in the same sweatshirts? [Not that this is any help in deciding where they are!]  Yes Robin if we could get a descent look at the sculpture it would give us a clue... Tony has managed not to show and signs or building names  ??? I'm still sticking with Austria  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 31, 2009, 01:17:33 PM
Great two-tone goat.... very stylish!
Robin, can we see a picture of Jazzy, please? Lots of petlovers around here!!

Jazzy in two-tone looking cool?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on March 31, 2009, 01:20:37 PM
Oh, yes, I can see she is a real cool Doog!
Anthony Darby has a Weimaraner, also......she a glamour girl called Heidi!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 31, 2009, 01:22:13 PM
I thought so too, Carol, thinking the people in red were dressed in costume...are they looking at sheep or goats?  I have tried zooming in but it's all blurry.... that sculpture behind is a clue has got me on another track...

Definitely goats, the folk in red are walkers complete with rucksacks and cameras... possibly and organised group all in the same sweatshirts? [Not that this is any help in deciding where they are!]  Yes Robin if we could get a descent look at the sculpture it would give us a clue... Tony has managed not to show and signs or building names  ??? I'm still sticking with Austria  ;D

Carol could this be the sculpture?  Although what beavers would be doing in the town centre is even stranger than two-tone goats!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on March 31, 2009, 01:26:48 PM
Don't think Tony 'does' Austria.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carol Shaw on March 31, 2009, 01:44:36 PM

Carol could this be the sculpture?  Although what beavers would be doing in the town centre is even stranger than two-tone goats!

Well they certainly look like beavers...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on March 31, 2009, 02:07:45 PM
I think of beavers as having big, flat tails. Is it possible that these are marmots, more typical of the alps.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on March 31, 2009, 02:34:19 PM
I don't know how we got to beavers but Robin knows the answer!  Tony does not do Austria (yet) ...and someone else has clearly been stuck in traffic too ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 31, 2009, 05:12:18 PM
Where did I see this traffic jam from my window? :) 

I recognise those goats and so I would guess at Zermatt??
(and that was before I saw Robin's there's-often-a-clue picture from the Valais)

Quote
I think of beavers as having big, flat tails. Is it possible that these are marmots, more typical of the alps.

Actually the winner is Diane who recognised the two tone (blackneck) Valais goat and put two and two together and came up with Zermatt where goats caused a traffic jam as no other traffic is allowed there!  As for the sculpture it was a complete red herring as these are Marmots (as Dave rightly states) even though caption of an american girl says 'Beaver sculpture' ???

Maybe Diane will set the next puzzle? :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on March 31, 2009, 06:44:32 PM
"it was a complete red herring "
I missed the herrings, were they part of the water feature? ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on March 31, 2009, 06:49:48 PM
Actually the winner is Diane who recognised the two tone (blackneck) Valais goat and put two and two together and came up with Zermatt where goats caused a traffic jam as no other traffic is allowed there! 

Actually, my first thought was Saas Fee but I thought the architecture was wrong, so went for Zermatt.  I never knew what sort of goat they were, and usually call them Ying-yang goats

Quote
 Maybe Diane will set the next puzzle? :)

Good idea!  I'll think about it

But meanwhile, here they are causing a different sort of traffic jam
and also in "King of the Mountains" style
sorry for the  poor quality of old scanned slides
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on March 31, 2009, 07:39:23 PM
Actually the winner is Diane who recognised the two tone (blackneck) Valais goat and put two and two together and came up with Zermatt where goats caused a traffic jam as no other traffic is allowed there! 

Actually, my first thought was Saas Fee but I thought the architecture was wrong, so went for Zermatt.  I never knew what sort of goat they were, and usually call them Ying-yang goats

Quote
 Maybe Diane will set the next puzzle? :)

Good idea!  I'll think about it

Yipee!

But meanwhile, here they are causing a different sort of traffic jam
and also in "King of the Mountains" style
sorry for the  poor quality of old scanned slides

Slides of the two tone goats on the mountain are wondeful, Diane!  Where were they taken?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on March 31, 2009, 08:33:41 PM
Slides of the two tone goats on the mountain are wondeful, Diane!  Where were they taken? 

I thought as a native, Robin, that was your puzzle ;D
We were staying in Saas Fee and took the bus down the valley to Saas Almagell.  Then walked up to Almagelleralp (a stiffish climb), then along the Höhenweg Kreuzboden which is an excellent flowery walk then down from Kreuzboden by cablecar.  The goats blocked our way on a narrow path on the Höhenweg and we had considerable difficulty getting past
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on March 31, 2009, 08:44:01 PM
I was not so lucky at Kreuzboden.  It snowed heavily the night before so high places were out of bounds.  And on the way up to the top the gondola stopped with us out of view of humankind ..... long enough for us both to be crossing our legs :-X  Returning to the flowery path we were greeted with rain :'(
It was nice the day before :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 01, 2009, 10:17:49 AM
Slides of the two tone goats on the mountain are wonderful, Diane!  Where were they taken? 

I thought as a native, Robin, that was your puzzle ;D
We were staying in Saas Fee and took the bus down the valley to Saas Almagell.  Then walked up to Almagelleralp (a stiffish climb), then along the Höhenweg Kreuzboden which is an excellent flowery walk then down from Kreuzboden by cablecar.  The goats blocked our way on a narrow path on the Höhenweg and we had considerable difficulty getting past
Not a native Swiss, Diane, a Scottish interloper!  Hence my delight in exploring all things Alpine.  I think your garden looks full of treasures from your Blog and really enjoyed your myths and legends surrounding Mandragora officinarum.  Next time we are in Italy I will look out for it on the scrubby hillside.

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 01, 2009, 10:23:29 AM
I was not so lucky at Kreuzboden.  It snowed heavily the night before so high places were out of bounds.  And on the way up to the top the gondola stopped with us out of view of humankind ..... long enough for us both to be crossing our legs :-X  Returning to the flowery path we were greeted with rain :'(
It was nice the day before :P
What a fabulous view, Tony, but the gondola experience sounds a little like 'touching the void'...I have a wonderful greenstone ring from Saas Fee - the stone is only found in the region and I will try and find its name....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Luc Gilgemyn on April 01, 2009, 11:02:55 AM
I was not so lucky at Kreuzboden.  It snowed heavily the night before so high places were out of bounds.  And on the way up to the top the gondola stopped with us out of view of humankind ..... long enough for us both to be crossing our legs :-X  Returning to the flowery path we were greeted with rain :'(
It was nice the day before :P

The Weißmies looks nice in the sun Tony !
I think I can even see the Weißmieshütte in the valley in front of me... that brings back happy memories of the many liters of sweat it took me to get there some 20 odd years ago....  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 01, 2009, 12:11:47 PM
What a fabulous view, Tony, but the gondola experience sounds a little like 'touching the void'
As we hung there it started to snow again ... we both (I was with a male friend) had the same thought ... can you guess what we were thinking (nothing to do with crossed legs this time!) :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 01, 2009, 12:45:04 PM
out of view of humankind...
Yetti??????
... or who was going to cut and run? :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on April 01, 2009, 01:18:21 PM
Quote
can you guess what we were thinking (nothing to do with crossed legs this time!)

Who's going to be first to suggest sharing body heat :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carol Shaw on April 01, 2009, 09:25:25 PM
Quote
can you guess what we were thinking (nothing to do with crossed legs this time!)

Who's going to be first to suggest sharing body heat :o
David Gerald Shaw...  :(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 01, 2009, 09:30:14 PM
when will we get off this mountainside?  


Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 01, 2009, 11:58:25 PM
Stuck on the mountain would have been better - I think ???
When we told our wives the tale they both agreed with what we were thinking.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 02, 2009, 06:51:00 AM
Stuck on the mountain would have been better - I think ???
When we told our wives the tale they both agreed with what we were thinking.

Encased in the gondola inside a giant frozen snowball - suspended and bobbing on a whitened frost covered cable like a huge ice lolly?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 02, 2009, 08:26:42 AM
Stuck on the mountain would have been better - I think ???
When we told our wives the tale they both agreed with what we were thinking.

Encased in the gondola inside a giant frozen snowball - suspended and bobbing on an whitened cable like a huge ice lolly?

The mind bogglith :o
But this happened to a cable car full of people on the mountainside who stopped by a snow machine!

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 02, 2009, 08:30:18 AM
Stuck on the mountain would have been better - I think ???
When we told our wives the tale they both agreed with what we were thinking.

Encased in the gondola inside a giant frozen snowball - suspended and bobbing on an whitened cable like a huge ice lolly?

The mind bogglith :o

I know Robin ... and I've seen a psychiatrist!   He simply said; "No hope" ...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 02, 2009, 08:39:58 AM
I'm trying to get inside Tony's head?????!!!!! Otherwise I'm feeling clueless.....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 02, 2009, 08:44:10 AM
I'm trying to get inside Tony's head?????!!!!! Otherwise I'm feeling clueless.....

Don't go there, Robin ... he's a croconut!!!  (and from Norfolk!!!)   ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 02, 2009, 08:51:21 AM
Well if they are both croconuts then they would probably go croconuts together :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 02, 2009, 12:07:43 PM
We stayed calm and were glad to be alone in the gondola .... now can you think who (we) would be glad was NOT sharing our experience? ::) 
Perhaps you would need to know us better but maybe there is a married man out there who can identify the answer?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 02, 2009, 05:03:16 PM
This getting to be a real cliff hanger!(nudge,nudge, ;) ;))
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: annew on April 02, 2009, 07:44:10 PM
 ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on April 02, 2009, 10:50:30 PM
We stayed calm and were glad to be alone in the gondola .... now can you think who (we) would be glad was NOT sharing our experience? ::) 

one of those black and white goats . ???  ::)  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 02, 2009, 10:52:36 PM
OK so you're getting bored with two men in a gondola ???  
Here is perhaps a better puzzle.
A Valaisian plant but what is the connection with the Butterfly which started this thread off?  (Double points if you can work out the town below :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 03, 2009, 10:04:32 AM
Looks like Helianthemum sp., but I can't think of a connection because no apollos feed on it?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 03, 2009, 01:42:47 PM
Looks like Helianthemum sp., but I can't think of a connection because no apollos feed on it?
I've been searching for other connections with the Apollo butterfly and thought maybe laying of eggs but no - seems it likes Fumarialeae, Scrophularaceae, Crassulaceae genus but not Cistaceae...cannot find another photo like this plant in Valais Alpine Plants so am working on the village below!!!!!

PS is that a gondola behind ??? ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 03, 2009, 02:37:47 PM
You're not even warm yet .... but perhaps you will be when you make the connection :)

Yes - a cablecar below.

PS Tony D is right ... it is a helianthemum.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 03, 2009, 03:18:09 PM
Is it something to do with the height this helianthemum likes to grow and how high the Apollo butterfly flies with access for feeding in the meadows below? ???

...or something to do with the sun 8)

Apollo God of the sun...

Helianthemum sun worshipper
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 03, 2009, 03:21:57 PM
Oh dear - this scientific approach is all Greek to me ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 03, 2009, 03:34:00 PM
Oh dear - this scientific approach is all Greek to me ;)
Ye Gods! ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 03, 2009, 03:39:12 PM
Oh dear - this scientific approach is all Greek to me ;)

By george...I think I've got it ;D

In Greek mythology the mountain was regarded as the "home of the gods", specifically of the Twelve Olympians, the twelve principal gods of the ancient Hellenistic world

Apollo God of the sun...(as in butterfly)

Helianthemum olympus grow there....(as in your plant)

is this the connection?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Olympus
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 03, 2009, 03:49:09 PM
Good!
Apollo - God of the Sun
Has he only one name?
And what about the yellow flower - has this other names?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 03, 2009, 05:52:10 PM
Good!
Apollo - God of the Sun
Has he only one name?
And what about the yellow flower - has this other names?

This is a marathon :o

Apollo - God of sun and music

Helianthemum (rockrose, sunroses, rushrose, or helianthemum) is a genus of about 110 species of evergreen or semi-evergreen subshrubs in the family

I shall never forget the connections in this puzzle and will look on my rockrose here in a new light!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 03, 2009, 06:00:24 PM
Ok - the race is nearly over (but if you knew what I do for a living you'd appreciate the irony there ;D)
You started the thread with Apollo and Helianthus .... but I'm sure Helianthus and Helianthemum are both derived from the same greek god.  You have been so close to the answer Icarus would be proud of you :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on April 03, 2009, 06:37:37 PM
Not a 'Bookie' are you Tony?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 03, 2009, 06:44:00 PM
Ok - the race is nearly over (but if you knew what I do for a living you'd appreciate the irony there ;D)
You started the thread with Apollo and Helianthus .... but I'm sure Helianthus and Helianthemum are both derived from the same greek god.  You have been so close to the answer Icarus would be proud of you :P


I hope I get out of this labyrinth soon ::) ::)

Helios - is the Greek sun god and the sun itself?
Offspring =
These "children of the Sun" were sometimes referred to as Heliades in Greek mythology and literature.


Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 03, 2009, 06:48:43 PM
Ok - the race is nearly over (but if you knew what I do for a living you'd appreciate the irony there ;D)
You started the thread with Apollo and Helianthus .... but I'm sure Helianthus and Helianthemum are both derived from the same greek god.  You have been so close to the answer Icarus would be proud of you :P


I hope I get out of this labyrinth soon ::) ::)

Helios - is the Greek sun god and the sun itself?
Offspring =
These "children of the Sun" were sometimes referred to as Heliades in Greek mythology and literature.
You seem to have gone an extra mile - Apollo and Helios were my connection - I thought you might take a short cut to the answer having started the thread with that combination. 
No more puzzles for a while  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 03, 2009, 06:50:27 PM
Not a 'Bookie' are you Tony?
David, if I didn't know better I'd say you got that from the horses mouth :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 03, 2009, 06:55:00 PM
Yes. I guess it's back to reality!   Great puzzle though :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on April 03, 2009, 07:40:21 PM
No more puzzles for a while  ???   

we haven't yet solved Two men in a gondola puzzle   ???
But I will have a stab at the valley village as Saas Grund  :-\

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 03, 2009, 07:47:51 PM
Wrong side of the Rhone Diane ;) ;)
Perhaps the best people to answer the Gondola question would be our respective wives .... but then they were not there :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on April 04, 2009, 10:20:02 AM
Busy day today Tony  :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 04, 2009, 03:15:32 PM
Busy day today Tony  :-X
David - I dont Knowhere you get that idea big fella.  Thanks for thinking of me.  Whats the state of play down among the cornish sett?  I'm off on holiday next week, not a eurotrek or the himalayan trail for me, no my will is to stroll down a cloudy lane to chelsea harbour. 
Enough of this idle talk - I can hear the echo of money in the till.  I'll keep you in darkness as to the outcome of the big one :-*
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on April 04, 2009, 06:47:58 PM
It didn't worry the Bookies too much.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 04, 2009, 07:09:48 PM
If I'd backed that horse it would have come in last! :-\ It's not that I'm not superstitious, as that's bad luck, it's just that when my ship comes in I'll be at the airport! :(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 04, 2009, 09:46:15 PM
It didn't worry the Bookies too much.
A nice quiet day at the office - I gave you a dozen well fancied options and none was a winner  :-[
Pity I had to be stuck indoors on such a nice day though :(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on April 04, 2009, 11:12:53 PM
If I'd backed that horse it would have come in last! :-\ It's not that I'm not superstitious, as that's bad luck, it's just that when my ship comes in I'll be at the airport! :(

That's certainly not bad luck Anthony, that (very) bad management. :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 05, 2009, 02:10:28 PM
It didn't worry the Bookies too much.
A nice quiet day at the office - I gave you a dozen well fancied options and none was a winner  :-[
Pity I had to be stuck indoors on such a nice day though :(

Nowadays it's risky even to hedge your bets! ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 05, 2009, 03:24:17 PM
Another fabulous spring day here and I am stuck at work again (yes, most of my forum time is at work).... the hedge (and the grass) will be growing lustily in the garden. 
Hope the sun shines for you too!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on April 05, 2009, 03:31:34 PM
So, was it your wives that you were glad were not also stuck in the gondola ? ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 05, 2009, 10:30:10 PM
It didn't worry the Bookies too much.
One of my friends had a fiver to win on Mon Mome! :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 05, 2009, 10:33:15 PM
So, was it your wives that you were glad were not also stuck in the gondola ? ???
Maggi - you know me too well! 
They would both have been deeply unhappy which would have disturbed our quiet contemplation of the meaning of life.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on April 05, 2009, 10:36:02 PM
Maggi - you know me too well! 
They would both have been deeply unhappy which would have disturbed our quiet contemplation of the meaning of life.

 By which you mean you settled down to wait and fell asleep?  :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 05, 2009, 10:37:29 PM
It didn't worry the Bookies too much.
One of my friends had a fiver to win on Mon Mome! :o
One of our customers had £100 on it "because my little girl calls me Mom-Mom" ... for the uninitiated Mon Mome won the Grand National (UKs most famous horse race) at odds of 100/1.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 05, 2009, 10:42:44 PM
Maggi - you know me too well! 
They would both have been deeply unhappy which would have disturbed our quiet contemplation of the meaning of life.

 By which you mean you settled down to wait and fell asleep?  :D
Apart from the sleep bit (far too cold) you're about right.
My friends wife once had a bad experience going up the Schilthorn by cablecar.  (There's a very big drop at half-way)  They had to walk down .....  :P
On that occasion we split up and I had the unexpected pleasure of meeting SRGC members Peter & Beryl Bland whilst exploring below the summit.  A bit un-nerving when you hear the voice of an old acquaintance from above in a foreign land.  I had no idea they were in the area!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on April 05, 2009, 10:46:28 PM
I thought you'd be used to the fact that you really can't go to any mountain without meeting,( or at least spotting, kneeling in the distance, cameras at full blast )   at least half the members of the SRGC and AGS !! ;D  They're everywhere!! :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 05, 2009, 10:50:55 PM
Ah but I enjoy my own company :-X and have tried to visit a few places off the beaten track.  I did once make it through a whole week without meeting anyone whose first language was english :) 

But on a family trip we met someone who lives just a few miles from here in Norwich.  The freaky coincidence was that she identified me as a native Londoner and it turned out that I'd spent 6 years in the same class at school as her brother!!!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 06, 2009, 10:09:50 AM
Good fortune or fate?  On searching for a Swiss Alpine Gardening Club to join I drew a blank and then came across Alan's website which intrigued me and captured my imagination with his wonderful photographs of Alpine plants.  :) A happy connection led to joining the SRGC and opens up a whole new world of gardening and challenges that I could not have imagined possible.  So here's to SRGC and the Members - on the internet or mountain top it's always a pleasure for like minds to meet - the puzzling thing is why it took me so long to make the link!  ??? ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on April 06, 2009, 10:23:01 AM
Quote
....on the internet or mountain top it's always a pleasure for like minds to meet

Never a truer word spoken, Robin ... and we are dlighted you have found us!


Quote
- the puzzling thing is why it took me so long to make the link!
I think that all that lovely clear mountain air may have made you too dizzy !! ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 06, 2009, 06:34:13 PM
Just now I scaled dizzy heights to take photos of these beautiful Adonis in the evening light. What are the conditions locally that make it the only place in Switzerland where they grow?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on April 06, 2009, 06:47:58 PM
Robin, with photos of plants like that you are more than welcome as a member of this club. :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 06, 2009, 06:51:04 PM
Thanks David  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on April 06, 2009, 07:27:27 PM
Robin, would that I knew the secret of these beauties.... I can only marvel at the perfection the flowers you have photographed and share with us. That big clump is simply scrumptious!!  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 06, 2009, 07:38:40 PM
Well I fell in love with them clinging to the mountainside!  It's the first time I have seen them as they only last a few weeks - the yellow petals are almost iridescent, like butterfly wings fluttering in the wind. ;) :-*
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 06, 2009, 08:24:07 PM
For those of us stuck at home (or at work ;)) there is an elite class of member.  Those who can report about the plants in their native habitat :)  Thanks for scaling the heights and sharing the bounty with us.
I have seen Adonis pyrenaica in the Pyrenees (only pics are old slides) and it too is quite rare.  All I remember is that it grew on rather dry, North facing slopes which were covered in anthills, this made close-up photography 'interesting'.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 06, 2009, 08:30:56 PM
A quick web search suggests you saw Adonis vernalis.
Have you found this web site
http://www.wsl.ch/land/products/webflora/floramodul2-en.html
Swiss web flora - clicking on the mapping regions takes you to a species list for each one.  I find it very useful.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on April 06, 2009, 10:54:14 PM
Simply glorious Robin. I hope you weren't left TOO dizzy, but worth it I'm sure, specially for those of us safely in the lowlands. :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 06, 2009, 11:29:25 PM
A quick web search suggests you saw Adonis vernalis.
Have you found this web site
http://www.wsl.ch/land/products/webflora/floramodul2-en.html
Swiss web flora - clicking on the mapping regions takes you to a species list for each one.  I find it very useful.

Yes, it is Adonis vernalis and thanks for the website.  I think I was lucky to capture the shots whilst the flowers were in such peak condition and am so happy to share them with everyone. :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on April 06, 2009, 11:30:01 PM
Tony,
thank you for the link. Very interesting. 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 07, 2009, 11:19:25 AM
Simply glorious Robin. I hope you weren't left TOO dizzy, but worth it I'm sure, specially for those of us safely in the lowlands. :)

It was worth the scramble, Lesley, it is an amazing sight because everything around is dry and brown and then there are these pools of bright yellow Adonis nestling all the way down the rocky mountainside.  The terrain here is similar to the Russian Steppes where they are native and it's the combination of soil and climate that makes it a golden spot for them to grow.  I think the feathery leaves set the flowers off perfectly. :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 08, 2009, 11:40:12 AM
 8) Another golden beauty of a common kind.....Happy Easter!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 10, 2009, 04:23:22 PM
Green puzzle - what is hidden? :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on April 10, 2009, 10:35:28 PM
A large, and probably very hungry, grasshopper!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 10, 2009, 11:05:55 PM
 ;D hole in one, Paul - I'm looking forward to a puzzle post from elsewhere....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 10, 2009, 11:14:52 PM
Actually a great green bush cricket (Tettigonia viridissima). Omnivorous, eating vegitation and other grasshoppers.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 10, 2009, 11:22:42 PM
Actually a great green bush cricket (Tettigonia viridissima). Omnivorous, eating vegitation and other grasshoppers.

Gulp!  A cannibal :o and it looks quite friendly!!!!!  Thanks for the detailed info Anthony
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 15, 2009, 09:15:55 AM
One or two Fritillaria Meleagris - strange happenings?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 15, 2009, 12:25:09 PM
An easy puzzle to begin with ... I just require the location?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 15, 2009, 02:45:21 PM
An easy puzzle to begin with ... I just require the location?
???Grey and hairy - somewhere hot  8)

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on April 15, 2009, 02:50:04 PM
Is it the inverted, spent, flower stem of a Hawaiian Silver Sword? Argyroxiphium sandwicense macrocephalum
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 15, 2009, 03:03:42 PM
On the right lines, Maggi and Robin but nowhere near really.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carol Shaw on April 15, 2009, 05:10:48 PM
An easy puzzle to begin with ... I just require the location?

Looks like frost on the stems to me...  ??? ??? ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 15, 2009, 05:52:44 PM
No Carol ... Maggi is closer ...

Another image clue tomorrow if necessary ...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 16, 2009, 08:08:52 AM
PUZZLE ONE - CLUE TWO   LOCATION REQUIRED PLEASE
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ashley on April 16, 2009, 10:03:43 AM
Echium wilpretii on Teide, Tenerife?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 16, 2009, 10:23:31 AM
Ashley wins hands down ...

The rest of the clues are attached to this posting.

Well done sir ... now it's your turn to set the next puzzle!   :D :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 16, 2009, 10:23:48 AM
An easy puzzle to begin with ... I just require the location?

Never been to tenerife but following on from Ashley's guess is this a connection with the first plant puzzle? ???


Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 16, 2009, 10:33:55 AM
Robin ... I may be showing my age and a lack of grey matter but, if you haven't been to Tenerife, where did you take that photograph?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 16, 2009, 10:38:41 AM
when I was surfing - maybe I should remove it..... ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 16, 2009, 10:41:19 AM
How did you keep upright on the board AND hold the camera steady?   ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 16, 2009, 10:43:28 AM
multi tasking - it's a woman prerogative! ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 16, 2009, 10:49:06 AM
Men can multi-task ... I can drink Guinness and watch football ...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 16, 2009, 11:03:36 AM
Men can multi-task ... I can drink Guinness and watch football ...

Ah but can you surf at the same time like the guys in the famous Guinness advert shot off a beach in Hawaii ???? - I've been to that location - plus I saw pineapples growing for the first time on the Del Monte plantation;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 16, 2009, 12:10:55 PM
That's not multi-tasking, Robin ... that's exercise!   :)

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ashley on April 16, 2009, 01:16:06 PM
... now it's your turn to set the next puzzle!   :D :D

Thanks for the fun Cliff .... but aaaaagh :o what a 'prize' :P ;D

Unfortunately I've nothing to hand that would be a worthy successor so must pass for now ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on April 16, 2009, 04:45:10 PM
Unfortunately I've nothing to hand that would be a worthy successor so must pass for now ;)   

I missed my turn before so can I do one now.

Look at the picture, and name the crocus.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 16, 2009, 09:22:23 PM
First thoughts - Crocus nevadensis, a stab in the dark but last night I had Echium sp and Lanzarote but having never been there I kept mum :-X  Tonight I'll risk appearing a fool (which as anyone who knows me will realise is a role I often play ;))
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 16, 2009, 10:01:21 PM
After 25 viewings of your lovely photo, Diane, thank goodness The Croconut has returned from the wild to set the pace.....I am stuck between the cherry trees and the mountain so will see if any other clues transpire ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on April 16, 2009, 10:08:49 PM
First thoughts - Crocus nevadensis, a stab in the dark but last night I had Echium sp and Lanzarote but having never been there I kept mum :-X  Tonight I'll risk appearing a fool (which as anyone who knows me will realise is a role I often play ;))  

No fool, Chief Croconut, but not there yet.  More clues later, although I'm supposed to be processing entries for the Midland show tonight, preparing my plants and setting it up tomorrow, and on duty on Saturday so I may have to keep you guessing for a while ...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on April 17, 2009, 08:40:54 AM
... I am stuck between the cherry trees and the mountain

RR, the crocus is not BETWEEN the trees and the mountain

And no cherry blossom, it's too early, and too late for the crocus.

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 17, 2009, 09:00:48 AM
Are we perhaps looking at Crocus serotinus ... (I really should stick to buttercups)?   :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ashley on April 17, 2009, 10:18:18 AM
First thoughts - Crocus nevadensis

Or at ssp. level there are several possibilities ...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 17, 2009, 12:45:46 PM
... I am stuck between the cherry trees and the mountain

RR, the crocus is not BETWEEN the trees and the mountain

And no cherry blossom, it's too early, and too late for the crocus.

Almond blossom then? ??? - I'll leave the crocus to the experts ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on April 17, 2009, 08:20:19 PM
The Bookeroo is getting warm, Chief Croconut is warm geographically but not so botanically
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 17, 2009, 11:29:40 PM
Are we looking at El Torcal?  Once again I've not been there but .....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on April 18, 2009, 12:50:50 AM
Are we looking at El Torcal?  Once again I've not been there but .....   

We are!  Well done, Tony.  I was sitting in a hot tub at the Hotel El Torcal in order to take the picture. 
It's February, so the blossom is almond and olive and the eponymous crocus is sadly not to be found at this season.  This picture is the wallpaper on my computer so I often have to tell people where it is. 

There's more on this area here:
http://www.srgc.org.uk/smf/index.php?topic=275.16 (http://www.srgc.org.uk/smf/index.php?topic=275.16)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on April 18, 2009, 01:45:36 AM
Oh dear!
Just found this thread, and it's sooooo funny,
and it's way past my bed time - The Magic Roundabout must have finished  ..... 


How about this:
I've visited a few Botanic Gardens in my time.
In one country I think I visited every Botanic Garden they had.
I guess I could feed you Botanic Gardens,(from the same country), and you could try and guess the country (and city?)
I'll start with the most difficult one - probably the third or fourth largest city in this country.I'll give you successive new Botanic Gardens in this country
until it's too obvious. As this one is so obscure, I give the view looking the other way (!)
(Sorry, can't do Robin's sense of humour).



Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on April 18, 2009, 07:29:24 AM
I think I know but have not visited the country I'm thinking of so I'm not sure. Am I right to think that this place has a connection with the Viking king Olav Trygvasson and was once the capital of this country?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on April 18, 2009, 08:43:21 AM
I'm totally stunned with that!!!
I thought it would be impossible, but you are right - it's Trondheim Botanical Garden.
Norway has the dubious honour of being my No. 2 favourite country,(after Luxembourg).
For the others - here is Bergen and Oslo Botanic Garden....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 18, 2009, 10:03:56 AM
Oh dear!
Just found this thread, and it's sooooo funny,
and it's way past my bed time - The Magic Roundabout must have finished  ..... 

Closer to the truth than you might imagine!  ;D

Quote
How about this:
I've visited a few Botanic Gardens in my time.
In one country I think I visited every Botanic Garden they had.
I guess I could feed you Botanic Gardens,(from the same country), and you could try and guess the country (and city?)
I'll start with the most difficult one - probably the third or fourth largest city in this country.I'll give you successive new Botanic Gardens in this country
until it's too obvious. As this one is so obscure, I give the view looking the other way (!)
(Sorry, can't do Robin's sense of humour).


Giles, welcome to this elusive if not magical thread and thanks for your puzzle which I was thinking about when I discovered that Gunilla had neatly resolved it as Trondheim Botanical Gardens!
I visited Trondheim many times as my father was a great fisherman and we spent fishing holidays at Rissa (? spelling) Fabulous place! How long has the Botanical Gardens been in existence?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 18, 2009, 10:09:31 AM
Are we looking at El Torcal?  Once again I've not been there but .....   

We are!  Well done, Tony.  I was sitting in a hot tub at the Hotel El Torcal in order to take the picture. 
It's February, so the blossom is almond and olive and the eponymous crocus is sadly not to be found at this season.  This picture is the wallpaper on my computer so I often have to tell people where it is. 

There's more on this area here:
http://www.srgc.org.uk/smf/index.php?topic=275.16 (http://www.srgc.org.uk/smf/index.php?topic=275.16)

Great puzzle Diane, makes me want to go there and have the hot tub experience with a view - after a hike in the mountain, of course.  Can we see a photo of the crocus in question?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on April 18, 2009, 10:58:04 AM
I'm totally stunned with that!!!
I thought it would be impossible, but you are right - it's Trondheim Botanical Garden.
Norway has the dubious honour of being my No. 2 favourite country,(after Luxembourg).
For the others - here is Bergen and Oslo Botanic Garden....

Giles, it was your second photo that made me guess Norway and then your clue about the size of the city made me think of Trondheim. 

This thread is great and I have enjoyed it very much often laughing out loud  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 18, 2009, 01:26:39 PM
Are we looking at El Torcal?  Once again I've not been there but .....   

We are!  Well done, Tony.  I was sitting in a hot tub at the Hotel El Torcal in order to take the picture. 
It's February, so the blossom is almond and olive and the eponymous crocus is sadly not to be found at this season.  This picture is the wallpaper on my computer so I often have to tell people where it is. 

There's more on this area here:
http://www.srgc.org.uk/smf/index.php?topic=275.16 (http://www.srgc.org.uk/smf/index.php?topic=275.16)

Great puzzle Diane, makes me want to go there and have the hot tub experience with a view - after a hike in the mountain, of course.  Can we see a photo of the crocus in question?
Your wish is my command!
The name is applied to this white form collected in the area.  Likes a warm dry summer rest.  I have lost mine to virus :'(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 18, 2009, 02:01:45 PM
Thank you, thank you oh Chief Croconut genii-us .....it's a magical crocus.  I wish you could raise another one from your magical lamp! ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 18, 2009, 05:04:51 PM
In between the postings did someone post a gorgeous little grey leaved rock plant to find a name for or was it just my imagination....again! ???  Please repost as it's driving me crazy not having an answer to a puzzle!!!! ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on April 18, 2009, 07:53:07 PM
My last ditch chance, I guess.
3 islands, 1 kingdom.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 18, 2009, 08:00:08 PM
Giles in my list of countries only one has Kingdom in its given name.  Did you have to travel far for these :-\?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on April 18, 2009, 08:15:34 PM
I realise I'm out of my depth in this thread.
(I still can't believe Gunilla got Trondheim when she has never been there!)
I guess what I was getting at was:
Japan  (Biddulph Grange, Staffordshire)
Italy    (Osborne House, Isle of Wight)
Desert  (Tresco, Scilly Isles)

More: 3 'countries' depicted on three islands, of one country (England).

Must sort through my collection of historical topiary!!!!!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 18, 2009, 08:18:08 PM
Oh Giles - don't give up!  You're sure to beat us sooner or later .... and it is such fun :) :) :)

and besides you could have made us come up with the islands ... I have never seen any of these places but simply connected with your words.  I'd have taken a long while to get to the Isle of Wight!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on April 18, 2009, 08:45:08 PM
Try this then:
4 Historic Gardens, 4 National Collections.
Garden and Collection, please?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 18, 2009, 08:54:26 PM
Lovely images, Giles ...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on April 18, 2009, 08:57:37 PM
I haven't a clue about any of them.... but I think it's great fun and I LOVE the pictures.... some very tasty real estate featured, for sure!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 18, 2009, 09:04:59 PM
Now you've got me!  Four great photos though :)
I really don't get out much ... so there will be a lot of guesswork if I get near any of them!
The first has a huge house so if the gardens are equally momentous we could be into a tree or shrub collection.
The second has an austere look about it, somewhere bleak?
The third one reminds me of Sissinghurst but I don't think it is
The last might be a town garden .... or a city?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on April 18, 2009, 09:11:53 PM
I'm not impressed boys and girls.  ;)
Tony is definitely at the bottom of the class as one of them is in NORFOLK !!!!!!!!!

I worry about hard core alpine folk !
I might try my 'Famous Gardens of Scotland'  ....that could be most embarrassing  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on April 18, 2009, 09:17:21 PM
Let's get you started then.
Tony - you must have the book:
E.A.Bowles ?  Crocus and ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 18, 2009, 09:25:04 PM
I'm not impressed boys and girls.  ;)
Tony is definitely at the bottom of the class as one of them is in NORFOLK !!!!!!!!!

I worry about hard core alpine folk !
I might try my 'Famous Gardens of Scotland'  ....that could be most embarrassing  ;D ;D ;D
I did say I do not get out much ... and I meant it!  Especially Norfolk.  Long story but ill health (not mine) and now children mean that I have a lot of catching up to do .... Perhaps I should visit other gardens before I get mine in order :o
OK then No3, not Sissinghurst but Felbrigg Hall - Colchicum.  (And no I have not been there yet :-[)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Rob on April 18, 2009, 10:10:57 PM
I'll guess no.1 is Upton House, Banbury, Warwickshire and holds the National Collections of Aster amellus, Aster cordifolius, and Aster ericoïdes.

Unfortunately I've never visited, but had a quick search of the net.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on April 18, 2009, 10:13:01 PM
Sorry Tony, No upset intended.
I've been over excited today. Too many Daphnes at todays show!!!!
Yes - your right on that one. I worked in Kings Lynn for a while.
No. 4 is the next easiest.
David N has been there and posted pictures about it.
Anne W might know it too as it also has a fine selection of Polypodium vulgare forms.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on April 18, 2009, 10:15:22 PM
I am afraid not Rob.
Upton House is nothing like as grand as that.
No 1 is in Wales.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Rob on April 18, 2009, 10:36:21 PM
Ok now you've given a few more clues I'll guess no.1 is Erddig Hall, Wrexham with the national collection of Ivies.

The one David N visited is Waterperry Gardens with the National Collection of Kabschia and Engleria Saxifrage.

Now back to check the show reports!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on April 18, 2009, 11:27:53 PM
In between the postings did someone post a gorgeous little grey leaved rock plant to find a name for or was it just my imagination....again! ???  Please repost as it's driving me crazy not having an answer to a puzzle!!!! ::)

Robin,

Is that the Myosotis ID down in the ID section that you were thinking of?  Certainly a gorgeous grey leafed rock plant, that is for sure.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 18, 2009, 11:51:14 PM
Erddig - ivy
Sizergh Castle - four fern genera incl Dryopteris -  and those amazing chimneys
Felbrigg - Colchicum
Waterperry -Saxifraga - but David DOES get out a lot ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on April 19, 2009, 08:02:02 AM
Wow, some results there!
No 4 is Oxford Botanic Gardens - Euphorbias. Right city though!
Well done! All wrapped up now!
Must now have a lie down!  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on April 19, 2009, 09:36:06 AM
Quote from: Ragged Robin
Great puzzle Diane, makes me want to go there and have the hot tub experience with a view - after a hike in the mountain, of course.  Can we see a photo of the crocus in question?
Your wish is my command!
The name is applied to this white form collected in the area.  Likes a warm dry summer rest.  I have lost mine to virus :'(   

I lost mine and numerous other autumn crocus to mice a couple of years ago.  Then I found them all growing happily in various places in the sand plunge, where the mice had presumably buried them as a store.  I potted them all up again, but they are still a bit mixed up and I keep finding more in the sand. 
Sadly, I've never seen 'El Torcal' or any other autumn crocus in the wild, never been to the Med at that time of year  :'(   
one day, one day  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on April 19, 2009, 10:43:16 AM
Diane,

At least you found them all again.  I know that some have mentioned finding things flowering in nearby woods that were "stolen" from the garden by mice..... obviously buried for later and found conditions suitable for growth.  Darn nice of the mice not to actually EAT them at the time.  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ashley on April 19, 2009, 12:10:51 PM
The connection to Easter?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 19, 2009, 12:49:48 PM
The connection to Easter?

A great image, Ashley, is it some sort of vine?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on April 19, 2009, 12:59:38 PM
It's a gnat or something on a Fritillaria, but the easter connection beats me.  I am guessing that my 'gnat or something" is probably the key bit that I am missing to the puzzle.  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ashley on April 19, 2009, 01:03:51 PM
Well done Paul.  No the fly is a distracter, but perhaps after the answer too ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on April 19, 2009, 01:11:37 PM
Are Fritillaria meleagris commonly called Easter Bonnets over there or something?  It looks like that species to me (or does it have too many flowers?  The "square" look to the base of the flower is about right), which had me wondering as to common names?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 19, 2009, 01:42:04 PM
Well done Paul.  No the fly is a distracter, but perhaps after the answer too ;)

Looking at your photo from another angle I can see Paul is right - strange how the eye/mind deceives..... ::)
Trying to think laterally - Isn't there a Fritillaria called a chocolate lily?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 19, 2009, 01:58:50 PM
I like the chocolate connection ... and the frit is not F meleagris. Fritillaria affinis from America is also known as the Chocolate Lily, it can have brown flowers, so I think you may be on a winner ;)
(I was going to make a link through F meleagris, flowers known as 'dice box' due to the chequering; dicebox - egbbox - easteregg; but I think you have the answer.)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 19, 2009, 02:30:30 PM
So, it's not an aubergine then?!!!   ;D ;D ;D ;D

(The eggplant to all our non-U.K. based members).
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ashley on April 19, 2009, 02:53:23 PM
Isn't there a Fritillaria called a chocolate lily?

Fritillaria affinis
You got it Robin; well done indeed :D 8)   
Hint 2 would have been 'also linked to a divinity both international & local' ;)   There's often a clue. 

Clearly my next effort will have to be more challenging :-\ ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 19, 2009, 03:00:15 PM
So, it's not an aubergine then?!!!   ;D ;D ;D ;D

(The eggplant to all our non-U.K. based members).

Eggplants or brinjal make fantastic curries....and sliced and rolled with cheese an drizzled with olive oil, baked in the oven is one of my favourite Delia recipes (better than chocolate) - still eggs...rolling of eggs....curries - rather random from different religions/cultures and I think the leaf shape is at odds!  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 19, 2009, 03:05:23 PM
 ::) Oh is that the end of the puzzle  ???  (very sad I was in to another thread of puzzling eggplant  :'(  Please put me out of my misery...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 23, 2009, 07:31:22 AM
Ready for another little puzzle?    Species name and native to where?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 23, 2009, 11:47:59 AM
 :) ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 23, 2009, 12:53:04 PM
Ready for another little puzzle?    Species name and native to where?
Looks like the nettles in my garden ... we shoot trespassers you know ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on April 23, 2009, 12:59:39 PM
Looks a bit like some of the begonias too, but I don't think the toothed margin is quite correct.  By the look of it is probably has heavily indented veins on the leaf surface?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 23, 2009, 01:34:50 PM
Out a bit ... bottom right is now visible (but only a little)?

CLUE TWO
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on April 23, 2009, 01:44:29 PM
Cliff,

It may not look like it, but knowing your recent postings it is probably a Pulsatilla isn't it?  ;D  :P

I really don't know and would just be complete guessing, so I'll leave it to someone else.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 23, 2009, 01:47:58 PM
I would say Helleborus thibetanus from Tibet?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 23, 2009, 04:16:16 PM
Sorry lads ... nowhere near yet!    Back to the woods ...  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Luc Gilgemyn on April 23, 2009, 04:18:44 PM
Some Anemone ???  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 23, 2009, 05:20:41 PM
Sorry Luc ... not an anemone!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on April 23, 2009, 05:21:54 PM
Could it be Glaucidium palmatum (Japan) ?  
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 23, 2009, 05:40:09 PM
I am VERY IMPRESSED Gunilla ... you had little to assist you.

It is actually Glaucidium palmatum leucanthum, but I can't be so pernickety ...

The next two clues were going to be as follows.


Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on April 23, 2009, 06:08:53 PM
Well, it is one of my favourite plants  ;) Lovely pictures, Cliff.  Is Glaucidium palmatum leucanthum the same as I grow as Album?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 23, 2009, 06:50:07 PM
Great puzzle,Cliff, with tantalizing clues....what a beautiful flower and leaf - I have never seen it before....

Gunilla, well done for guessing the puzzle and do tell us more, if you would like to, about why it became one of your favourite plants?  :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 23, 2009, 07:44:25 PM
Here is an easy one :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 23, 2009, 07:46:44 PM
Well, it is one of my favourite plants  ;) Lovely pictures, Cliff.  Is Glaucidium palmatum leucanthum the same as I grow as Album?


It is listed as Glaucidium palmatum var. leucanthemum ... I can see no discernible difference from 'album' ... a beautiful woodland plant.

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 23, 2009, 09:12:19 PM
Here is an easy one :)
Bring me sunshine  8) in your smile  :)  bring me laughter all a while  ;D

In this world where we live there should be more happiness  :D

So much joy you can give to each brand new bright tomorrow  ;)
 
 ::) Just thinking about your not so easy puzzle.......





Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 23, 2009, 09:17:33 PM
Here is an easy one :)
Bring me sunshine  8) in your smile  :)  bring me laughter all a while  ;D

In this world where we live there should be more happiness  :D

So much joy you can give to each brand new bright tomorrow  ;)
 
::) Just thinking about your not so easy puzzle.......






Bring me joy, bring me sunshine, bring me love!!! ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 23, 2009, 09:37:57 PM
Well that's fine and dandy but for love or money I still ain't got a clue  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 23, 2009, 11:20:07 PM
Sorry!  It was not meant to be a clue, I just had to finish the song ::)
The flower is not ericaceous but could be said to have short fat hairy legs :o

like this?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on April 24, 2009, 03:19:02 AM
Cliff,

That Glaucidium is striking!  I had never seen a white one before (well to be honest I have never actually "seen" a real plant of it of any colour or variety).  Beautiful!! 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 24, 2009, 04:47:55 PM
Sorry!  It was not meant to be a clue, I just had to finish the song ::)
The flower is not ericaceous but could be said to have short fat hairy legs :o

like this?

So this flower likes sunshine....thinks it's cool to have hairy legs....and is vertically challenged?  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on April 24, 2009, 04:55:54 PM
Tony,
'Bring me sunshine' was always the final song on Morecambe and Wise's show,
and Ernie was always being teased for having 'short fat hairy legs',
but I don't see a connection to any plants.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 24, 2009, 11:19:46 PM
I think I've made too many lateral connections, all this Morecambe and Wise (they were my favourite entertainers as I grew up) stuff is nothing to do with the plant.  It does have hairs though, as you can see in the picture and the flowers open when the sun shines.  Cliff will know it immediately when he sees the pics - and that is a clue for the rest
No!  Its not a hirsute buttercup :D :D
There is another clue (when photo upload is possible) ... many more and you'll have the whole plant!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 25, 2009, 04:21:26 AM
Go on then ... Pulsatilla vernalis?  Hairs don't look right on the stems though, Tony?   When you mentioned me, I immediately thought; 'Old Man of the Mountains'!!!   ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lori S. on April 25, 2009, 05:49:23 AM
How about a dryad, maybe Dryas... I dunno... octopetala?  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on April 25, 2009, 10:23:07 AM
Go on then ... Pulsatilla vernalis?  Hairs don't look right on the stems though, Tony?  When you mentioned me, I immediately thought; 'Old Man of the Mountains'!!!   ;D ;D ;D

Hmm, I don't think you get hairy Adonis, do you? ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 25, 2009, 12:41:24 PM
I am just a little confused, Maggi ... ('What's new', chant the members of the forum in unison)?

You are either calling me an Adonis (the optician is open) or you have misread my answer about Pulsatilla vernalis and assumed I meant Adonis vernalis or you believe adonis to be nicknamed the 'Old Man of the Mountains', which I have always known to be Hymenoxis (or now Tetraneuris) grandiflora? 
I do like the first option ... !  :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on April 25, 2009, 03:56:47 PM
I thought I knew what 'Little Ern' is, but there are more plants with such
hairy stems.
Here is the one I was thinking of and it's having yellow flowers.
If it is not the same, Tony may say what it is  ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 26, 2009, 05:53:49 PM
This puzzle is getting really hairy  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 26, 2009, 10:33:24 PM
Go on then ... Pulsatilla vernalis?  Hairs don't look right on the stems though, Tony?   When you mentioned me, I immediately thought; 'Old Man of the Mountains'!!!   ;D ;D ;D
Amazing what happens if you take a day off for a Wedding Anniversay.  Just think how many hirsuite wrong answers would have been offered if I'd been gone for a week? :D
Cliff is right with Pulsatilla vernalis.  Go on then Cliff now tell us where the photo was taken? .... you do know you know ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 26, 2009, 10:50:27 PM
I thought I knew what 'Little Ern' is, but there are more plants with such
hairy stems.
Here is the one I was thinking of and it's having yellow flowers.
If it is not the same, Tony may say what it is  ;D ;D
Pulsatilla alpina ssp apiifolia?
..... or any one of a dozen hieraceum species ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on April 27, 2009, 05:23:49 AM
Tony,

Gorgeous picture!!  Would make a wonderful desktop on the computer!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 27, 2009, 06:43:38 AM
Wengen area ... Kleinne Scheiddegg perhaps, looking towards north face of the Eiger ... small knoll near the broken fence by the tiny pond which is home to the one-legged, one-eyed albino frog called Lucky?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on April 27, 2009, 08:49:14 AM
Tony I was totally wrong   :o
I could not believe your picture being a Pulsatilla, because we saw already some pics  of them
before in several topics. :-\ ;D

Now to my picture: no Pulsatilla nor Hieracium, but it belongs to the Aristolochiaceae.
Oops, this clue makes it to an easy puzzle now  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 27, 2009, 05:53:45 PM
Wengen area ... Kleinne Scheiddegg perhaps, looking towards north face of the Eiger ... small knoll near the broken fence by the tiny pond which is home to the one-legged, one-eyed albino frog called Lucky?
Close but the wrong end of the famous belvedere.
....... didn't know his name was Lucky ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on April 27, 2009, 09:15:18 PM
small knoll near the broken fence by the tiny pond which is home to the one-legged, one-eyed albino frog called Lucky?

Good Lord! What constitutes bad luck to a frog? ??? ??? ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on April 27, 2009, 09:47:14 PM
small knoll near the broken fence by the tiny pond which is home to the one-legged, one-eyed albino frog called Lucky?

Good Lord! What constitutes bad luck to a frog? ??? ??? ???

Being coerced into making spawn movies?   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 27, 2009, 10:17:15 PM
Quote
Being coerced into making spawn movies?

 :o  or....being frog marched..... :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on April 27, 2009, 11:05:15 PM
small knoll near the broken fence by the tiny pond which is home to the one-legged, one-eyed albino frog called Lucky?

Good Lord! What constitutes bad luck to a frog? ??? ??? ???

Being coerced into making spawn movies?   :D

With a cane  toad.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 27, 2009, 11:38:20 PM
I though that frog rana way?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on April 28, 2009, 02:29:17 PM
I though that frog rana way?
with its latin lover?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on April 28, 2009, 02:47:23 PM
Diabolical puns flying around here.... I fine you ALL large bars of best chocolate!  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Luc Gilgemyn on April 28, 2009, 03:45:33 PM
Diabolical puns flying around here.... I fine you ALL large bars of best chocolate!  ;D

I agree Maggi - They deserve it !!  :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 28, 2009, 04:44:01 PM
Let's hope we don't croak on it!  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on April 29, 2009, 03:40:59 AM
Oh everyone, chocolate fines to Maggi... you'd better hop to it. ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 29, 2009, 09:14:31 AM
Heard in a French restaurant: "waiter, do you have frog's legs?" "Oui monsieur." "well, can you hop over there and bring me a menu?". :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on May 03, 2009, 10:24:34 PM
Recently in the Narcissus thread mention was made of Narcissus facing the brightest light. Today while driving a plant popped in to my head. One, a native plant, that always moved towards the darker place. What is it? I hope there is only one
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on May 03, 2009, 10:41:23 PM
Two eggs. Who/what laid them?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on May 04, 2009, 12:29:40 AM
Fowl of some description.  ;D

Given the wide range of colours of egg we had from our assorted different types of chickens when I was growing up, both would fit within the realm of chickendom, but I would be guessing by the blu-ish cast on the left egg that it would more likely be some sort of duck, as some of those do tend towards blue-ish eggs..... they look a bit large for some of the bantams that have the same tinge to theirs.  The markings in the darker egg look a lot like a pheasant egg, except that it looks way too big?

If it was a month ago I would have just said "the Easter Bunny!"  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 04, 2009, 01:34:00 AM
Parsons?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on May 04, 2009, 06:52:56 AM
Paul is hot ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on May 04, 2009, 07:15:48 AM
Paul is hot ;D

He quite likes you, too!   :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 04, 2009, 08:19:04 AM
Hooray!  I thought the puzzle trail had gone cold.....but obviously things are hotting up  ;D  My guess is that they look good enough to eat  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 04, 2009, 11:35:20 AM
I'm puzzling full time about the plant that " always moved towards the darker place."  :-\

Both those eggs are pretty big....  :o     the bluer egg is perhaps a goose egg...too big for a duck... well, any duck I've met!  Unless there's a chicken somewhere with watering eyes, might the lovely big brown speckled egg be from a turkey?  ??? I've never seen a turkey egg!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Alan B on May 04, 2009, 12:31:47 PM
They look like chicken eggs by the size.  The brown one i guess could be a breed like marans and the blueish maybe an anacona.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 04, 2009, 01:08:27 PM
Alan, you have made me trot off to the pantry to examine the eggs there more closely!

Not sure how wide Mark's hands are; I thought the eggs looked pretty big.... but, on placing two eggs 
( fresh from the hens of local Aberdeen SRGC Members  Joan and Chris Rowe  :) ) on my own hand.... the hens' eggs look bigger than I thought..... my hands are approx. 8cm across the palm ( yes, yes, I know, not very dainty!)
 Click the pic to enlarge and yes, these eggs  look pretty big...... so I'm back to a duck and hen for Mark's eggs.... but as to which varieties, I have no notion..... hope there will be pix to follow of said feathered friends??
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on May 04, 2009, 02:02:54 PM
My hand is 9.5 cm across
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Alan B on May 04, 2009, 02:34:51 PM
Guess that rules out chickens.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 04, 2009, 04:47:50 PM
I don't think the brown speckled one looks pointed enough one end for a pheasants egg but then again if Mark was thinking in the car of of a Pheasants-eye narcissus (N. recurvus) pointing towards the dark that might possibly shed some light on the puzzle, although I'm not eggsactly confident   :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on May 04, 2009, 07:23:09 PM
I'll put you all out of your misery trying to think of what laid the eggs.

Alan was right the eggs belong to a Maran with the chocolate egg
http://www.chickenpictures.co.uk/siteimages/maranhen.jpg (http://www.chickenpictures.co.uk/siteimages/maranhen.jpg)

and an Araucana the only chicken to lay a blue egg
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/__CePmZh0l7w/SCd_7ll1zFI/AAAAAAAABbw/aya3grbD9iE/s400/%2B%2BAraucana%2BHen.jpg

A friend breeds rare breed chickens. The two eggs in my hand are big. All his chooks are free range
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on May 04, 2009, 09:50:52 PM
I thought I knew what 'Little Ern' is, but there are more plants with such
hairy stems.
Here is the one I was thinking of and it's having yellow flowers.
If it is not the same, Tony may say what it is  ;D ;D
I know its been a long time but is yours Asarum pulchellum Luit???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 04, 2009, 10:24:23 PM
I know its been a long time but is yours Asarum pulchellum Luit???
Tony, I came to the wrong solution (Pulsatilla stem) because the attachment from the stem
to the flower basis is looking almost the same on Cliff's picture as my plant.
To make it very easy here is a flower
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 04, 2009, 10:56:25 PM
Very pretty what ever it is? 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on May 04, 2009, 11:03:47 PM
To make it very easy here is a flower 

I lost the plot of this but the picture shows the definitely hairy Saruma henryi - an anagram of Asarum so Tony was nearly correct. 


Can I do another from this: Whose favourite plant was Saruma? 
And completely unrelated: what other genera have been made up as anagrams?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 05, 2009, 07:27:03 AM
To make it very easy here is a flower 

I lost the plot of this but the picture shows the definitely hairy Saruma henryi - an anagram of Asarum so Tony was nearly correct. 
Yes it is Diane, but with the flower it was rather easy.
The other entries I made before were in replies 251 and 257.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 11, 2009, 07:44:35 PM
I took this picture last week in our garden.
Probably too easy for many of you all, but maybe I am wrong.
Any guess?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on May 11, 2009, 10:46:51 PM
Carnivorous, Luit?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 11, 2009, 10:54:10 PM
Quote
I took this picture last week in our garden.
Probably too easy for many of you all, but maybe I am wrong.
Any guess?
I think you hit your thumb with a hammer when you were mending a fence .... it looks very sore! :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 11, 2009, 11:04:08 PM
Oh, your thumb! ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 11, 2009, 11:22:40 PM
Quote
I took this picture last week in our garden.
Probably too easy for many of you all, but maybe I am wrong.
Any guess?
I think you hit your thumb with a hammer when you were mending a fence .... it looks very sore! :P
Indeed, I do have two left hands, so might be a possibility... ;D ;D

Not carnivorous Cliff!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 12, 2009, 06:54:46 AM
Is it some sort of embryo fruit?  Pomegranate  ::)  though I have never seen one growing and haven't a clue if it would grow in your garden Luit  :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on May 12, 2009, 06:58:13 AM
Some sort of fig?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 12, 2009, 10:00:10 AM
Today a puzzle from me :

we found this by walkings in the mountains of Sicily before some years  8)

any ideas  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on May 12, 2009, 10:09:51 AM
A porcupine quill, Hans?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ashley on May 12, 2009, 10:11:24 AM
Very nice Hans!  It's probably the shed spine from a crested porcupine (Hystrix cristata), rare in Sicily but found in southern Europe, North & West Africa.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on May 12, 2009, 10:12:42 AM
Great minds think alike, Ashley?   :D

The common Old World crested porcupine (hystrix cristata), the same species present in northern Africa as far south as Ethiopia, is rare but not extinct in Sicily. What is amazing is the fact that it survives at all, the island's ecosystem having been largely compromised in the last century or so, and has been sighted in unlikely places like the Favorita Park (formerly a royal hunting ground) outside Palermo.

It is dark brown, grey and black, growing to a length of 70 centimeters and weighing as much as 15 kilograms. It should not be confused with the hedgehog, a superficially similar but smaller rodent. Porcupines are night creatures; daytime sightings are rare. they enjoy bushy areas, and in Sicily prefer terrain lower than one thousand meters high, where it rarely snows.

Porcupines (istice is the Italian word) appear to have few natural enemies (if man is excluded). The porcupine does not shoot its quills (spines) as folklore suggests. When menaced, it often chooses to flee, though porcupines can bite or claw adversaries, and may even charge backward, attempting to stab with their quills. The porcupine is generally considered the largest rodent present in Italy, where hares are also seen.

The crested porcupine lives in holes it burrows. It rarely attempts to climb trees but can swim. In winter, which is brief and not very cold in the parts of Sicily inhabited by porcupines, these creatures remain in their holes but do not actually hibernate. They consume bark, tubers, roots, berries and domestic crops, and have been known to hone their teeth by gnawing on bones.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 12, 2009, 10:13:23 AM
Today a puzzle from me :

we found this by walkings in the mountains of Sicily before some years  8)

any ideas  ::)
A quill....of a hedgehog  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 12, 2009, 10:17:20 AM
Very quick !

100 points for Ashley and Cliff !!!

so far i have read are this pigs natural in Sicily .....but now after your comments I'm not longer shure  ???

I see this puzzle was to easy !
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on May 12, 2009, 10:20:29 AM
Hans,

Cliff mentioned that it was rare but not extinct in Sicily, so they are still found there by the sound of it.  Maybe they were still more common when you found the quill, as you mentioned it was some years ago?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ashley on May 12, 2009, 10:25:15 AM
Great minds think alike, Ashley?   :D

Bingo Cliff ;) ;D

Hans, our information came from here (http://www.bestofsicily.com/mag/art117.htm). 
Paul's right; this species is on the Red List - see here (http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/conservation/species/ema/species/hystrix_cristata.htm). 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 12, 2009, 10:28:02 AM
Paul - I have found it in year 2001 .....and really far away from Palermo....

In wikipedia and other sources is descript this animal for Sicily ,Albania,northern Greece .....

Maybe knows our italian members more ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 12, 2009, 09:18:59 PM
I agree with Paul, a fig of some sort, for the previous puzzle.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 12, 2009, 09:33:07 PM
Sorry Lesley et all, I will help a little. Figs are edible and so are parts of this plant too.
I really thought , it being to easy but... :-\
Picture two:
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 12, 2009, 10:20:12 PM
I'm still none the wiser. Those look like emerging flowers? which maybe become fruit? I'm not at all good at these puzzles, though I'm a dab hand at Sudoku. ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on May 12, 2009, 10:28:56 PM
Luit,

Rheum?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on May 12, 2009, 10:30:17 PM
Oh Paddy, your timing was superb!  I was just about to post -

An emerging rheum?  An excellent puzzle sir!   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on May 12, 2009, 10:33:12 PM
Cliff,

I like my rhubarb, particularly good crop this year and lots of rhubarb recipes though I don't think Luit's is one of the edible varieties; Rheum palmatum or some such.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 12, 2009, 11:03:15 PM
Cliff,

I like my rhubarb, particularly good crop this year and lots of rhubarb recipes though I don't think Luit's is one of the edible varieties; Rheum palmatum or some such.

Paddy
This discussion gave me the idea. So it had to be an Irish winner   ;)  Rheum palmatum Heartswood Hartwood Purple. (edit L.)
Hardly believed it was difficult but I saw daily developments. It's so amazing to see how fast these plant are growing.
Here is picture nr. 3, for in case it would be necessary.  I give a picture of the whole plant tomorrow.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 13, 2009, 08:59:59 AM
A really great visual puzzle! Thanks Luit for the idea of your emerging Rheum palmatum Heartswood Purple and the way you photographed it was a real teaser  ;D

The porcupine quill was another really interesting subject that Hans posed and I had no idea that they lived, if only rarely in Sicily.  Cliff's answer led to some fascinating posting.  ;)

The only unsolved puzzle is Anne's question about genera anagrams - still thinking about them....maybe there is a clue lurking somewhere  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 13, 2009, 09:16:43 AM
Robin ,

which question do you mean with the anagram of genera ?

I can not found it ....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 13, 2009, 09:20:15 AM
To make it very easy here is a flower 

I lost the plot of this but the picture shows the definitely hairy Saruma henryi - an anagram of Asarum so Tony was nearly correct. 


Can I do another from this: Whose favourite plant was Saruma? 
And completely unrelated: what other genera have been made up as anagrams?

This is it Hans a few postings back in puzzles  :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 13, 2009, 09:41:32 AM
Robin :

I have now looked back all pages of this topic ....nothing

Maggi - could you please help ?

Thanks
Hans
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 13, 2009, 10:20:48 AM
Quote
I lost the plot of this but the picture shows the definitely hairy Saruma henryi - an anagram of Asarum so Tony was nearly correct. 


Can I do another from this: Whose favourite plant was Saruma? 
And completely unrelated: what other genera have been made up as anagrams?

Hans sorry for the confusion the puzzle went on over a few pages as Members caught up with it - Anne's quote above was in posting 287 and related to a previous post about a flower named as Saruma henryi in posting 285 then she set another puzzle that is still unsolved by Members which is:

Can I do another (puzzle) from this: Whose favourite plant was Saruma? 
And completely unrelated: what other genera have been made up as anagrams?

Hope it's now clear - perhaps you have the answers  ;D
Robin
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 13, 2009, 10:28:20 AM
Robin ,

no problems ....you mean Diane and not Anne ....

Sory no idea what is Saruma !

But I know a genera which is a anagram :

LOBIVIA ( it is a cactus genera) - and it is the anagram from BOLIVIA
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 13, 2009, 10:32:23 AM
Sorry Hans and apologies Diane for the name muddle - my mind is obviously totally scrambled  :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 13, 2009, 10:33:08 AM
Robin ,

no problems ....you mean Diane and not Anne ....

Sory no idea what is Saruma !

But I know a genera which is a anagram :

LOBIVIA ( it is a cactus genera) - and it is the anagram from BOLIVIA
I like that one Hans. Really neat!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on May 13, 2009, 10:46:27 AM
....my mind is obviously totally scrambled  :o

You should be REALLY good at anagrams, Robin!!!   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on May 13, 2009, 01:38:09 PM
Robin,

I wonder if the Saruma was Dr. Augustine Henry's favourite plant?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 13, 2009, 01:43:54 PM
Diane...SOS re Paddy's reply ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on May 13, 2009, 02:19:52 PM
Robin,

Saruma henryi is named after Dr. Augustine Henry. Just me messing and guessing.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on May 13, 2009, 04:51:56 PM
Robin,

Saruma henryi is named after Dr. Augustine Henry. Just me messing and guessing.

Paddy

Paddy - Strange it took so long to be introduced, sometime in the early 1990's I think.   We got seed from Jim Waddick in the mid- late 1990's.

We actually saw Augustine Henry's house in Dublin. It's the one to the left of Helen Dillon's.  She said the poplar at the front of his place is from his collections, she was not enamoured by its roots.

johnw

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on May 13, 2009, 05:49:42 PM
That's the house alright, John. I didn't think it was so late that it was introduced as I thought it had been around for far longer though, to be honest, it has never impressed me and after growing it for interest sake for a few years I removed it.


Robin, was I correct?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 13, 2009, 06:09:25 PM
Cliff,

I like my rhubarb, particularly good crop this year and lots of rhubarb recipes though I don't think Luit's is one of the edible varieties; Rheum palmatum or some such.

Paddy
This discussion gave me the idea. So it had to be an Irish winner   ;)  Rheum palmatum Heartswood Purple.
Hardly believed it was difficult but I saw daily developments. It's so amazing to see how fast these plant are growing.
Here is picture nr. 3, for in case it would be necessary.  I give a picture of the whole plant tomorrow.

As promised yesterday here 2 more pictures of Rheum palmatum Hartwood Purple.
I changed the name because I wrote it wrong first. I looked in the plantfinder yesterday but could not find it there, so had to
search the label near my plant.
I found out that "Hart" is from a certain Michael Hart, who ever he is. He did introduce some plants with the name "Hartwood"
Is there anybody who knows more?

It was very windy (again) today but the pictures are reasonable though.

Rheum palmatum Hartwood Purple
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on May 13, 2009, 08:28:00 PM
That's the house alright, John. I didn't think it was so late that it was introduced as I thought it had been around for far longer though, to be honest, it has never impressed me and after growing it for interest sake for a few years I removed it.


Robin, was I correct?

Paddy

Paddy - The only reference I can find on the history of Saruma says its name to commemorates A. henry. I'd like to know more. Perhpas I have Jim Waddick's original email at home. Will check.

Here it is much appreciated as it gets underway early in the year despite the our cool Spring. 

johnw - +20c, bright and sunny.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on May 13, 2009, 08:50:48 PM
Cliff,

I like my rhubarb, particularly good crop this year and lots of rhubarb recipes though I don't think Luit's is one of the edible varieties; Rheum palmatum or some such.

Paddy
This discussion gave me the idea. So it had to be an Irish winner   ;)  Rheum palmatum Heartswood Purple.
Hardly believed it was difficult but I saw daily developments. It's so amazing to see how fast these plant are growing.
Here is picture nr. 3, for in case it would be necessary.  I give a picture of the whole plant tomorrow.

As promised yesterday here 2 more pictures of Rheum palmatum Hartwood Purple.
I changed the name because I wrote it wrong first. I looked in the plantfinder yesterday but could not find it there, so had to
search the label near my plant.
I found out that "Hart" is from a certain Michael Hart, who ever he is. He did introduce some plants with the name "Hartwood"
Is there anybody who knows more?

It was very windy (again) today but the pictures are reasonable though.

Rheum palmatum Hartwood Purple


Luit,
amazing how quickly it has grown within last 2wks :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 13, 2009, 10:03:25 PM
A truly magnificent Rheum. 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 13, 2009, 11:15:12 PM
Alas, no reoom in my garden for such a plant. :'(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Eric Locke on May 13, 2009, 11:37:46 PM
Alas, no reoom in my garden for such a plant. :'(

Or mine. :'(

Eric
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 13, 2009, 11:42:20 PM
Ignoring Anthony's pun ( I know you can't come to the Aberdeen Show on Saturday.... please just post the choc fine to me!!)....... there are some very cute LITTLE Rheums, you know......cannot remember the names of any right now, of course  :P :-[ ..... but they do exist and don't take much space.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on May 13, 2009, 11:55:59 PM
Lesley,

I wish my wife had a similar appreciation of rheums as you have. While I grow several in the garden, they are confined to the "wild west corner" where they escape notice unless sought out. There is one patch in the garden of what I told my wife were a miniature species - these are now in flower at a height of about 2 metres.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 14, 2009, 12:06:43 AM
I love this little one. It is Rheum delavayi and grows to about 15cms in flower. It makes a tiny, tight mat. You would need a lot of stems to have enough for a rhubarb pie. :)
[attachthumb=1]

[attachthumb=2]

I have this as R. tibeticum
[attachthumb=3]

and I had R. spiciforme but have lost it now, a lovely inflorecence over flat foliage, the whole thing about 35cms high.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on May 14, 2009, 12:38:56 AM
Paddy - re: Saruma henryi

ex Hinckley's The Explorer's Garden

"first described by Daniel Oliver in 1889 from herbarium pressings collected by A. Henry."

"both Henry and later Wilson observed Saruma growing in shady, mesic locations in Hubei, Guizhou, and Yunnan Provinces, China but little lore or scientific inquiry surrounds this plant."....and that Mikinori Ogisu reported the roots good for stomach ailments.

Hinckley first received from Lawrence Lee, Asian Collection at the National Arboretum in DC in 1990.

And how quickly good plants can travel:

From email June 24 1998

Jim  - Patrick Seymour of the Devonian BG was mentioning Saruma henryi on the phone recently & suggested we try it as well as some of the hardier Asarums. Must research.  John

From an email June 26 1998:

Dear John;
   Just packed Saruma seed-it goes out to you today. Some folks have had
problems germinating this, but I suggest planting outdoors in the ground
now. You'll get good germination in the spring. Light shade -
semi-woodland................... James Waddick

.............. when you save all your emails of note! 


johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 14, 2009, 06:13:12 AM
Lesley, I love your small Rheum too. The R. tibeticum is one to go for. (for me at least ;D)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 14, 2009, 09:22:20 AM
Rhubarb...rhubarb...rhubarb this has been a really enlightening subject about Rheums......

Giant wild rhubarb used to grow on the railway bank near Auchterarder in Scotland and was a very dramatic site approaching the bridge - we were always warned its leaves were poisonous   ???   Rhubarb was a big part of our diet in puddings in various guises and it is a fascinating plant to watch as it unfurls.  Somewhere in the Midlands, in one of Rick Stein's TV programmes about the best of British produce, I seem to remember they showed that the whole village economy was built on growing rhubarb in cellars by candle light and had been for generations - nowadays being shipped to Europe and all over the place  ;)

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on May 14, 2009, 09:29:35 AM
John,

Your information on Saruma henryi is very interesting. I see you have enjoyed Dan Hinkley's book - he has another one on the way shortly, on trees, shrubs, climbers, along the same lines as the one on perennials.

Companions of Dan Hinkley on many of his plant hunting expeditions, Sue and Bledwynn Jones of Crug Farm, are based in north Wales which is quite accessible from Ireland - high speed ferry from Dun Laoghaoire to Holyhead and about an hour's drive to the nursery. They carry a very interesting range of plants; woodland plants in particular.

And, yes, it is amazing how quickly seed and plants can now get around the globe. Imagine the surprise this would engender in Wilson and Henry when one remembers the difficulties they had in sending collected seed back to botanic gardens in Ireland and England.


Lesley,
The smaller rheums are fantastic. I don't grow any and must look out for them. A parallel example is Gunnera magellanica, a really dwarf species at about 5 cm high even when in flower.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on May 14, 2009, 09:51:57 AM
I seem to remember they showed that the whole village economy was built on growing rhubarb in cellars by candle light and had been for generations -   ;)

Probably replaced by a less efficacious crop now, Robin!    ::) :o :o :P  Wow man!  :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 14, 2009, 10:21:51 AM
I seem to remember they showed that the whole village economy was built on growing rhubarb in cellars by candle light and had been for generations -   ;)

Probably replaced by a less efficacious crop now, Robin!    ::) :o :o :P  Wow man!  :D

Cliff, I'm completely in the dark on the subject but rheumour has it that it has medicinal properties  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 14, 2009, 10:34:07 AM
I've never smoked rhubarb, myself........ and frankly, I don't see it catching on.... look at the lack of interest when Francis Drake tried to popularise smoking spuds.......... ::) :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on May 14, 2009, 10:45:26 AM
look at the lack of interest when Francis Drake tried to popularise smoking spuds.......... ::) :P

I don't know, Maggi ... King Edwards are a top selling cigar!   :D

(...i do know that the cigars are King Edwards and the spuds are King Edward ... it's called comic license ... perhaps.)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 14, 2009, 10:54:52 AM
look at the lack of interest when Francis Drake tried to popularise smoking spuds.......... ::) :P

I don't know, Maggi ... King Edwards are a top selling cigar!   :D

Invincible Cliff!

Back in the 70s I used to buy my Dad a King Edward's half corona at Glasgow Queen Street railway station on my way back from college. 25p in 1976 - same price as a pint! That year my family took my brother to Gleneagles Hotel when it was still run (properly) by BR, for his 21st. After the meal I asked a waiter for three half coronas from the cigar trolley. "Romeo et Juliette?" said the waiter "Yes" I replied. "That will be £7.50 sir." I nearly fell off my seat! I had to borrow a fiver off my Dad to pay for them!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 14, 2009, 11:17:43 AM
Fab story, Anthony!  I had my 21 at Geneagles Hotel too and choked on ginger sprinkled on the melon - much to everyone's amusement  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on May 14, 2009, 12:14:51 PM
Somewhere in the Midlands, in one of Rick Stein's TV programmes about the best of British produce, I seem to remember they showed that the whole village economy was built on growing rhubarb in cellars by candle light and had been for generations - nowadays being shipped to Europe and all over the place  ;)   

It's not Midlands, RR it's in Yorkshire, The Rhubarb Triangle.  Up until quite recently, more than 90% of the world's rhubarb was grown there in quite a small area.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhubarb_Triangle (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhubarb_Triangle)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 14, 2009, 01:13:35 PM
Somewhere in the Midlands, in one of Rick Stein's TV programmes about the best of British produce, I seem to remember they showed that the whole village economy was built on growing rhubarb in cellars by candle light and had been for generations - nowadays being shipped to Europe and all over the place  ;)   

It's not Midlands, RR it's in Yorkshire, The Rhubarb Triangle.  Up until quite recently, more than 90% of the world's rhubarb was grown there in quite a small area.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhubarb_Triangle (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhubarb_Triangle)

That's it, thanks Diane, I'd forgotten the triangle connection - thanks for the website link - I just remember being fascinated by the tenacity and dedication of the growers and thinking: 'this is the UK's hidden treasure' - all sorts of things we never brag about but do really well.... and England has more cheeses (I think) and certainly apple varieties than France - Tally ho! (just enthusiasm no slight meant to French Members)

The really interesting bit is under the external links on the wiki page about the Secrets of the Rhubarb Triangle
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 14, 2009, 02:46:19 PM
.......and, if the newspaper reports of police raids on houses using extraordinary amounts of electricity and gas are to be believed... anything else you might want to grow and smoke needs lots of heat and light.... so cools  dark tunnels are not ideal!  ::)



Now you mention it , Cliff, my late father-in-law was known to light a King Edward after dinner.... :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on May 14, 2009, 02:50:27 PM
Magic mushrooms?    ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 14, 2009, 03:07:14 PM
Oh, right, mushrooms  ::) ....I've lead a sheltered life, what can I tell you! :-X   There are manythings that puzzle me! ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on May 14, 2009, 03:52:31 PM
...I've lead a sheltered life, what can I tell you! :-X   

About as sheltered as the Farne Islands ...   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 14, 2009, 10:14:40 PM
I remember the Rick Stein programme about rhubarb. Very interesting, as are all his but my Jack Russell is even nicer than his Jack Russell.

I have several Rheum species and occasionally get a little fertile seed.The tiny R. delavayi only gives me about a dozen seeds each year. Next time I have some I'll make a note on the Forum in case anyone would be interested. My original plant came from the AGS's Tony Colmer when I stayed with him in 1981 but more recently, my current plants were from the ACE expedition to China. I think most of the others came from Jim Archibald including R. ribes which hasn't flowered yet but there's a good illustration in the Phillips and Rix "Perennials" book. My R. spiciforme was a much more exciting plant than the one illustrated beside R. ribes and it was from a Chadwell collection.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on May 15, 2009, 08:47:57 AM
But I know a genera which is a anagram :

LOBIVIA ( it is a cactus genera) - and it is the anagram from BOLIVIA   

YES, well done Hans, that was one I was thinking of.  As well as Saruma/Asarum, there's at least another anagram in a genus that I can think of - here's a clue

(name and picture credit added after answer was given!)
picture used with permission of the photographer
Gary A. Monroe @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
Muilla transmontana
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 15, 2009, 09:03:06 AM
Somewhere in the Midlands, in one of Rick Stein's TV programmes about the best of British produce, I seem to remember they showed that the whole village economy was built on growing rhubarb in cellars by candle light and had been for generations - nowadays being shipped to Europe and all over the place  ;)   

It's not Midlands, RR it's in Yorkshire, The Rhubarb Triangle.  Up until quite recently, more than 90% of the world's rhubarb was grown there in quite a small area.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhubarb_Triangle (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhubarb_Triangle)
Forced labour?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 15, 2009, 09:21:26 AM
some more ( found with google ):
Podranea - a anagram for  Pandorea
Tylecodon ..................... Cotyledon
Hatotia .........................Hariot
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on May 15, 2009, 10:38:39 AM
But I know a genera which is a anagram :
LOBIVIA ( it is a cactus genera) - and it is the anagram from BOLIVIA   
As well as Saruma/Asarum, there's at least another anagram in a genus that I can think of - here's a clue (sorry for picture quality)
Oh Diane, you obviously know your onions :P
Allium - Muilla perchance?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on May 15, 2009, 12:09:54 PM
Oh Diane, you obviously know your onions :P   Allium - Muilla perchance?   

Of course, I do grow a few onions ;)  but I can't get Muilla to flower, hence having to use someone else's picture (with permission and credited)
Mine seems to grow OK and the buds abort - anyone else growing Muilla transmontana with success?  We (well the other half really) do also grow Lobivia.

Thanks to Hans for finding a few more.  We (well the other half really) grow Lobivia.   I always think an anagram must be the last resort of a creatively-challenged botanist or taxonomist.  Surely they could do better! 

However, I don't think we have fully finished with Saruma as to whose favourite plant it was.  I'm sure Henry was flattered to have a plant named after him but it wasn't him I was thinking of.  But my puzzled mind also leads me to wonder if he was the same Henry of Hepatica henryi and Lilium henryi? 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 15, 2009, 12:16:22 PM
Diane

The genus Lobivia was named from Britton + Rose
Thats are the greatest part of my cacticollection -I collect it since 30 years ....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on May 15, 2009, 01:18:17 PM
Lilium henryi is certainly named after Augustine Henry.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 15, 2009, 01:44:23 PM

However, I don't think we have fully finished with Saruma as to whose favourite plant it was.  I'm sure Henry was flattered to have a plant named after him but it wasn't him I was thinking of.  But my puzzled mind also leads me to wonder if he was the same Henry of Hepatica henryi and Lilium henryi? 
Diane, should we all know this person?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 18, 2009, 04:26:12 PM
As the Saruma question stays open for the moment, here a new puzzle, which is easier than you think at the first look.
I saw this flower in the weekend at the last special Flower Show for cutflowers etc.

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 18, 2009, 07:01:13 PM
makes me think of the origins of the word 'pink'.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on May 18, 2009, 07:07:19 PM
Luit - A carnation 3 days after the prom?

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 18, 2009, 07:23:31 PM
I mentioned that it was an easy one.
It's indeed a Dianthus. Breeders are always trying to change beautiful flowers into something we are not really waiting for.
At least I am not. ::)

Dianthus Cherry Tessino
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 18, 2009, 11:24:14 PM
Indeed, with unpinked edges. BTW the word for the colour that is 'pink' (what was it called before?) comes from the pinked (jagged) edges of carnation petals giving them their alternative name 'pinks'.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on May 19, 2009, 09:52:48 AM
Is there no end to this man's expertise ??? ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on May 19, 2009, 10:05:09 AM
BTW the word for the colour that is 'pink' (what was it called before?)...

That's easy, Anthony ... it was called Barbara Cartland!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 19, 2009, 04:57:56 PM
In Dutch we use the word pink too, but here it's used for the little finger.
So, cannot really follow this pink discussion of you. :-\
Better I give you something else to strengthen your brains. It's at least a subject I know more about :D

New puzzle
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on May 19, 2009, 07:40:29 PM
Luit,

I think the word "pinkie" is often used for little finger. When I was a child we always called it "lúidín" (pronounced loodeen, an Irish word)

I have no idea what your lovely blue flower is.

As for the asarum puzzle - I give up! When are we going to read the answer?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 20, 2009, 01:03:26 AM
We in Dunedin have a number of very large Magnolia campbellii, originals from the Robert Fortune collection. They're magnificent in August and when I mentioned these to a Kew friend he said "How very Barbara Cartland."
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 20, 2009, 07:01:53 PM
As for the asarum puzzle - I give up! When are we going to read the answer?

Paddy
If there is an answer at all?  ::)

To my blue flower, at the moment 20 times enlarged and no answer yet.
Must help a little; it's a member of the Labiatae.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 20, 2009, 11:12:54 PM
I did wonder about a Dracocephalum?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on May 21, 2009, 02:08:34 PM
So did I ... Dracocephalum ruyschianum?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 21, 2009, 05:19:09 PM
This seems to be a real difficult one :D
Alas, it's not a Dracocephalum. Here another hint. Others of this genus are mostly planted in shady places as a carpeter.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 21, 2009, 10:02:11 PM
Surely not a thyme? seems too blue for that. Veronica? but that's scrophulariaceae.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 22, 2009, 09:42:03 AM
I don't know what kind of thyme grows in shady places? None that I know. Where does your blue flower comfry? Perhaps it's a plant associated with big breaths?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 22, 2009, 10:45:44 AM
Probably right off track but I grew a red flowered mint that I seem to remember had flowers a bit like that  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: WimB on May 22, 2009, 11:24:13 AM
Some kind of Ajuga maybe?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 22, 2009, 11:53:07 PM
While we are still puzzling over the blue bells, here what I spotted from the car as I was approaching Dunblane from Doune.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 23, 2009, 09:22:38 AM
Here is a picture of the whole plant then:
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 23, 2009, 10:45:05 AM
While we are still puzzling over the blue bells, here what I spotted from the car as I was approaching Dunblane from Doune.
Anthony, whatever you saw must be so small (may be a caterpillar?) or may be I need new glasses 8)  but not sun glasses ;D

Of course, I was looking for wildlife......on second look there are drifts of flowers near the fence - bluebells?.... not sure....  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 23, 2009, 10:55:46 AM
Here is a picture of the whole plant then:

A lovely plant puzzle Luit - very handsome but I'm still wondering what it is  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 23, 2009, 11:02:01 AM
Here's the next pic.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 23, 2009, 11:04:27 AM
Here is a picture of the whole plant then:
Salvia pratensis?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on May 23, 2009, 11:43:11 AM
mentioning bluebells there is a big hill/small mountain called Knocklayd in N Ireland that has a massive patch, many acres, of bluebells on it's side. It's amazing to see when they are in full flower
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 23, 2009, 12:52:39 PM
I still don't know  what Luit's puzzle plant is! Not an exagerated enough lip and hood for a Salvia, I don't think..... :-\ :-X

On another puzzling matter:
I was asked about a photo which appeared somewhere  in the Forum in the last while, of an unknown person, bending over, weeding, I think: can anyone remember where that photo was and if we got an answer as to who the weeder was??
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carol Shaw on May 23, 2009, 12:59:11 PM
Anthony - don't think they are blue bells or even hair bells... wood anemone  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on May 23, 2009, 01:29:05 PM
For Luit's puzzle... one of the Nepeta family?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 23, 2009, 03:05:53 PM
You could say this is an annual event?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 23, 2009, 03:16:44 PM
Anthony, is it  Cardamine?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carol Shaw on May 23, 2009, 05:25:44 PM
Oh they could be Maggi...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Roma on May 23, 2009, 08:17:18 PM
Claytonia sibirica, Anthony?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 23, 2009, 08:51:34 PM
I bet you're right, Roma... that's a synoym for Montia sibirica, isn't it? And that's an annual, which is more than can be said for my Cardamine pratensis suggestion! :-[
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 23, 2009, 10:20:45 PM
Luit, if yours is a salvia, it's a very nice one. Flowers are salvia-like but I don't know that foliage. Please, time now to reveal all.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 23, 2009, 11:03:58 PM
Stachis monieri Luit?

Here's a closer view.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 23, 2009, 11:07:23 PM
Quote
Please, time now to reveal all

Well, when such a kind Lady is requiring, who am I to refuse?   :-*;D
Wim was not far away from the solution, but he did not know the spcies of Ajuga.

This seems to be a very nice, newer hardy introduction among the many perennials.
It needs light shady places and is flowering in May for several weeks.
I don't know if it is flowering again in summer and I know nothing about the origin of this
plant, just that Ajuga incisa might come from Japan.
Any more information is welcome.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 23, 2009, 11:18:52 PM
Claytonia virginica sibirica is with me about 15 to 20 cm. high. If this is what Anthony pictured they are looking much higher .
Here is a picture I made under the hedges here around the garden:
Claytonia virginica sibirica

Maybe Anthony pictured Allium? But that is not annual.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 24, 2009, 12:00:15 AM
Quote
Please, time now to reveal all
Ajuga incisa might come from Japan.

Aha. No wonder we didn't know it. ::)


Right pic, but wrong name. The pic Luit has is not Claytonia virginica. It is, however, what I have photographed. :) It is a native annual that is found in damp woods. Spot the bluebells.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 24, 2009, 07:14:15 AM
Right pic, but wrong name. The pic Luit has is not Claytonia virginica. It is, however, what I have photographed. :) It is a native annual that is found in damp woods. Spot the bluebells.

Boasting can be helpful. ;D ;D
But to be serious, this plant came somehow to me and I knew it is a relative of the white Claytonia perfoliata.
Visitors told me it was C. virginica or C. sibirica, but I never looked it up because its weedy behaviour.
Since some years I pull all the white plants out and let the pink one seed around because it is nicer and not so weedy as the white one.
Now I know that I have C. sibirica which is much lower as Anthony's Claytonia virginica.
Never to old to learn ;)

Will edit my former picture too

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on May 24, 2009, 08:28:22 AM
Anthony, Stitchwort?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 24, 2009, 04:31:32 PM
I don't think the Claytonia is a British native, Anthony, I believe it's a naturalised escapee  :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 24, 2009, 08:08:36 PM
You got it correct when you said Montia sibirica (pink purslane) Roma, and Luit's corrections are correct. It is now called Claytonia sibirica and is widespread and spreading in Scotland. Yes Maggi, it is thought to have been introduced into Scotland in the 18th century, though the fact that it found its way into this wood, which is half a mile from any dwelling would suggest it is good at self-dispersal. It has also been around long enough to acquire local common names.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Roma on May 26, 2009, 09:52:48 PM
Not usually thought of as an alpine though it is found at high altitude in its native land.  This cultivar has very attractive young foliage.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 26, 2009, 10:42:49 PM
Not usually thought of as an alpine though it is found at high altitude in its native land.  This cultivar has very attractive young foliage.
Looks very much like a Solanum tuberosum??
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 26, 2009, 10:43:39 PM
Are you not going to venture a variety, Luit?  ;) ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 26, 2009, 10:49:45 PM
I eat them, but never studied them  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 26, 2009, 10:55:44 PM
I eat them, but never studied them  ;D ;D ;D

 8) ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 26, 2009, 11:13:38 PM
Okay Maggi, here you go:
Red Duke

But don't ask me how I know this  ;D ;D ;D   :-X :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 26, 2009, 11:19:51 PM
BTW, is "tattie" Scottish for potatoe? ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on May 26, 2009, 11:33:58 PM
....a tatty tattie, or a dud spud ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 26, 2009, 11:48:36 PM
Very nice colour as the leaves emerge.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 27, 2009, 11:29:48 AM
BTW, is "tattie" Scottish for potatoe? ;)
Yes, Luit.... and 'Red Dukes ' are  very popular around here ......
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on May 27, 2009, 09:14:24 PM
I thought of "Blauer Schwede" ;) ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Roma on May 27, 2009, 09:47:16 PM
That didn't puzzle you for long, Luit.  Red Duke of York is one of my favourite tatties.  It can be eaten as an early potato or allowed to grow big and can be baked or used for chips.  It's only fault is it is very dry and can break up if not cooked carefully.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 27, 2009, 11:18:01 PM
Wish I'd known that a couple of months ago. Our tatties are in! :-\ I think I've mentioned it before, but a friend was employed, whilst he was a student, to check the varieties grown by farmers. He reckoned he could recognize over 50 varieties by their leaves and stature. 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 28, 2009, 08:16:22 AM
That didn't puzzle you for long, Luit.  Red Duke of York is one of my favourite tatties.  It can be eaten as an early potato or allowed to grow big and can be baked or used for chips.  It's only fault is it is very dry and can break up if not cooked carefully.

I grew pink fir which are a great late salad potato MMMmmmmm....your Red Duke of York sounds interesting and I will look out for it to recommend as my daughter is now growing potatoes and other veg in her tiny garden vertically - would make a good late season meal of bangers and mash I assume  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on June 08, 2009, 11:09:36 PM
No prizes for the name of the flower, but why did I take the pic?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on June 08, 2009, 11:50:12 PM
Because you could? :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on June 09, 2009, 12:17:23 AM
Is there a stick insect or a cricket hidden in the image, Anthony?   I must stop taking these tablets.   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on June 09, 2009, 03:58:33 AM
No prizes for the name of the flower, but why did I take the pic?

Anthony,

If YOU don't know why you took the pic, then how exactly are WE supposed to?  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on June 09, 2009, 07:10:40 AM
I suppose the next picture will be of your dog with a bleeding leg... ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on June 09, 2009, 12:30:10 PM
Anthony,

Could the photograph be for the sake of the horse?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on June 09, 2009, 12:38:54 PM
Anybody see an answer to the ararum question?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on June 09, 2009, 01:09:52 PM
Here's a puzzle. A friend goes rock climbing on these limstone blocks, but the local land owner is not happy, so he has put these boxes up. http://www.ukclimbing.com/images/dbpage.html?id=117530
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on June 09, 2009, 01:11:22 PM
Odd looking bat boxes. Swift boxes?

Is there an Orange tip caterpiller on the Cardamine?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on June 09, 2009, 01:16:58 PM
Anthony,

So the landowner is just creating an extra large handhold for them?  ;D

So your friend just goes onto anyone's land and rock climbs without permission?  Here, that is called trespassing and as far as I know you could be charged.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carlo on June 09, 2009, 01:17:03 PM
They look like window boxes to me...where are the zonal geraniums and annuals???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on June 09, 2009, 01:40:19 PM
Anthony,

So the landowner is just creating an extra large handhold for them?  ;D

So your friend just goes onto anyone's land and rock climbs without permission?  Here, that is called trespassing and as far as I know you could be charged.
No law of trespass (well, none that is enforceable) in Scotland. We have freedom to roam anywhere we choose. Land owners have wasted fortunes trying to stop people accessing land. This is just the latest way to try and stop climbers. Previously they have used engine oil and grease in the hand holes.

see: http://www.outdooraccess-scotland.com/default.asp
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ashley on June 09, 2009, 04:11:58 PM
No law of trespass (well, none that is enforceable) in Scotland. We have freedom to roam anywhere we choose.

Not quite what an aggressive wee gent with a shotgun said to me some years ago as I hiked near Loch Ossian ::)  (and yes he got his answer ;) ;D)

Thanks for the interesting link Anthony.  Here in Ireland we could do with this kind of explicit statement of access rights & responsibilities.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on June 09, 2009, 08:10:38 PM

Is there an Orange tip caterpiller on the Cardamine?
Nearly - but you'll get it with the next pic.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on June 09, 2009, 09:13:20 PM
I suppose the next picture will be of your dog with a bleeding leg... ::)
What? ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on June 09, 2009, 09:14:07 PM
Anthony,
Could the photograph be for the sake of the horse?
Paddy
What? ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on June 09, 2009, 09:18:06 PM
In NZ trespass is enforceable on privately owned land or property (farms, schools etc) but damage must be proved.

I find it odd that you in Britain can go anywhere you wish, such as over privately owned farms, yet can't get in a decent bit of fishing. Here, private is protected; public (including all lakes, rivers, mountains etc), is available to any and everyone.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on June 09, 2009, 11:05:36 PM
What horse? ::) :-\

If you look closely (get your specs on Lesley) you'll see an egg on one of the seed stalks. Mark was correct when he said orange tip, because I watched her lay it.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on June 09, 2009, 11:18:08 PM
Perfect egg laying balanced on that stem - Blurs of Orange Tips is all I've seen  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on June 10, 2009, 12:12:39 AM
I've just noticed another egg. This is much paler, so could be a green veined white (Artogeia napi)? Orange tip larvae are cannibalistic as one lady's smock plant will only support one caterpillar. I expect the first caterpillar to hatch will eat the other egg?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on June 10, 2009, 01:04:29 AM
Oh so those are eggs. I thought they were crumbs from the bun you had in your other hand. ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on June 10, 2009, 10:06:10 AM
Put your specs on Lesley! ::) ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on June 10, 2009, 10:15:11 AM
WHAT HORSE?

There is a plant in the background which is called "Mare's Tail". It is a most frightful plant if it gets into the garden.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on June 10, 2009, 01:09:36 PM
Anthony,

I did actually see that teeny tiny dot in the original pic.  I just thought it was an aphid or something.  Was at such a distance in the original shot that glasses or no glasses I still wouldn't have been able to tell what it was and that that was the microdot of interest.  ;) ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on June 10, 2009, 06:49:07 PM
Raining outside since 16.00 pm, so maybe time for a puzzle.
I saw this at the Weekly Flowershow last Monday. Any guesses?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on June 10, 2009, 07:28:29 PM
Raining outside since 16.00 pm, so maybe time for a puzzle.
I saw this at the Weekly Flowershow last Monday. Any guesses?
Can it be eaten? ( without poisoning the eater!!)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on June 10, 2009, 07:45:52 PM
Didn't need to guess who posted that :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carlo on June 10, 2009, 08:16:14 PM
Sassy, David....just sassy...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on June 10, 2009, 08:29:57 PM
She is, isn't she Carlo. ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: arisaema on June 10, 2009, 08:34:49 PM
Raining outside since 16.00 pm, so maybe time for a puzzle.
I saw this at the Weekly Flowershow last Monday. Any guesses?
A double, green monster of a Lilium? If so, then I want one! ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on June 10, 2009, 09:33:49 PM
I thought it could be the bud of a Babiana or something similar, but too late for that I expect. Another look does suggest a lily, with those little white tufty bits at the tips. Or a banana flower bud?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on June 10, 2009, 09:45:37 PM
Raining outside since 16.00 pm, so maybe time for a puzzle.
I saw this at the Weekly Flowershow last Monday. Any guesses?
Can it be eaten? ( without poisoning the eater!!)
The bulbs, yes  :-\ ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on June 10, 2009, 10:06:41 PM
It does have a tropical air about it.....is the bulb sweet or spicy?  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Martin Baxendale on June 10, 2009, 10:22:45 PM
Another look does suggest a lily, with those little white tufty bits at the tips.

I was going to say those look like lily petals, and lily bulbs can be eaten. Maybe a wierd double form of Lilium longiflorum?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on June 10, 2009, 10:32:43 PM
Quote
Or a banana flower bud?

That's what I was thinking, Lesley.... but it has a bulb.......hmmmmmm.....must be  a lily of some sort, going by the lily petal appearance ...... but I know of no sort of lily that looks like this ...... and I surely haven't eaten it ..... I tend to remember that sort of thing  :-X
This is a fine puzzle. Photogenic thing, whatever it is!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on June 10, 2009, 11:05:30 PM
After I gave my first answer about edible bulbs, I saw the other reactions and David's answer made me laugh, so that I had to take a short break  ;D ;D ;D
Sorry about that, Maggi, but well ..  ;) laughing people live longer.
Then I saw that Arisaema must be a lily specialist.
Very smart indeed  8)
I for myself had never seen such a thing before, but seeing Arisaema's answer, there seems to be a market for it  ::) ::)
Just the people who buy such flowers will await futile until it opens, I'm afraid... :-\ ;D ;D

Lilium Doubleen 1                           
Lilium Doubleen 2                     
Lilium Doubleen 3     
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: arisaema on June 10, 2009, 11:18:33 PM
I for myself had never seen such a thing before, but seeing Arisaema's answer, there seems to be a market for it  ::) ::)  

Seeing it in all it's (lack of) glory nearly cured the desire, too bad it never opens... :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on June 10, 2009, 11:19:54 PM
I would agree with you that laughter is a wonderful medicine, Luit,and one I like to enjoy several times and hour, never mind per day!  ;) Natural endorphins.... you can't better them, not even with chocolate.

Will there really be a market for these deformed lily flowers??  :o  :-\  I suppose in the cut-flower market there is business scope for all things  :P


 Arisaema, I am glad you have come to your senses! :-*
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Martin Baxendale on June 10, 2009, 11:34:48 PM
The leaves look like longiflorum. Is that L. longiflorum 'Pink Lady' on the right? It's a lovely thing but no-one in the UK seems to sell it any more and my bulbs seem to be virussed by the look of the flower buds this year.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on June 10, 2009, 11:42:38 PM
You mean THAT's IT??? It doesn't open any more than that? Well it needn't bother, so far as I'm concerned. >:(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on June 11, 2009, 07:12:33 AM
Reminds me of the old "shrimp plant" (Justicia brandegeana) flowers.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on June 11, 2009, 11:59:30 AM
Thanks, Paul, I had that thought niggling me, too, but I could NOT remember the name of it!
That was what I would call a multi-puzzle, in my case!!  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: arisaema on June 26, 2009, 09:28:51 PM
This one should be fairly easy, it's definitely something everyone's heard about ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: arisaema on July 05, 2009, 10:45:25 AM
No one..? It really is easy, in particular for those across the pond ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on July 05, 2009, 01:12:21 PM
Japanese Knotweed?
That is certainly one we would choose to miss if we could :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Shaw on July 05, 2009, 04:19:18 PM
Do the leaves and the flower stem belong to the same plant? The flower stem looks a bit like a Saxifrage such as mutata.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on September 01, 2009, 09:10:20 PM
Puzzling, certainly.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on September 01, 2009, 09:31:53 PM
That is puzzling, Giles..... part of a drive to provide more public conveniences in a national park? Very public, in this case  :-X


Your post has reminded me that I am STILL at a loss to name the plant arisaema showed in his pic above, from June 26, 2009, 09:28:51 PM....... ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on September 01, 2009, 09:53:06 PM
Good receptacle for bog plants, Giles?   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Susan on September 01, 2009, 10:25:54 PM
Loo with a view?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on September 02, 2009, 01:03:01 AM
Looks like the plumming was still attached too.  I'm assuming the main "room" was removed or vandalised?

And remember, they do after all refer to it as "the call of nature".  ;) ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on October 20, 2009, 02:19:19 AM
A quick puzzle....

What is this the flower of?  It is a bit under 1cm wide.  Probably fairly easy for some of those reading this, and darn near impossible for others.  I wouldn't have known what it was until I photographed it.  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on October 23, 2009, 06:19:38 PM
A quick puzzle....

What is this the flower of?  It is a bit under 1cm wide.  Probably fairly easy for some of those reading this, and darn near impossible for others.  I wouldn't have known what it was until I photographed it.  8)
An Onion?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on October 26, 2009, 04:47:02 AM
Tony,

Thanks for the response.  52 people have apparently viewed it, but you're the first to take a guess.  Thanks for taking the time.  Unfortunately, you're not even close I am afraid.... it isn't even a geophyte.  

I had thought it would have provoked more comments from people, or does everyone else just think it is so obvious they didn't think it worth answering?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on October 26, 2009, 07:04:38 AM
I have viewed your photo many times and would also have guessed some kind of Allium.  Now I haven't the faintest idea  ???   Too difficult to me,  give us a clue, please  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on October 26, 2009, 07:13:32 AM
Insectivorous, Paul?  Bottom left flower resembles a tiny Darlingtonia.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on October 26, 2009, 09:33:11 AM
I would hazard that most of the regulars here would grow members of this genus in their gardens, albeit some probably much larger than the one in the pic.  It is a shrub/tree depending on the species.  The seed is quite distinctive.

Do those clues help at all?  I was really afraid this would be one of those instantly answered ones so I'm glad I've got people thinking (which is the idea of this topic after all!  ;D).
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on October 26, 2009, 09:35:41 AM
Viewed but stumped. Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on October 26, 2009, 09:42:32 AM
Acer  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 26, 2009, 09:46:49 AM
I would agree Gunilla. Perhaps Acer palmatum?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on October 26, 2009, 10:46:15 AM
Got it Gunilla, well done.  Acer palmatum 'Everred' to be precise to the cultivar if anyone is wanting it.  I thought the hint about shrubs and everyone growing one might help people realise it wasn't something too obscure.

At least it got people thinking a little!!  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on October 26, 2009, 10:51:08 AM
Quote
At least it got people thinking a little!!

It certainly did  8)

 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on October 26, 2009, 10:57:59 AM
I'll have to look out for those flowers next spring.   I grow a few Acer palmatum but have never noticed the flowers.  Everyday something new to learn on this excellent forum  8).
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on October 26, 2009, 11:04:23 AM
Gunilla,

So how did you work out what it was then?  Or was it the vague leaves in the back of the image?  I'd never scene flowers before, although I had seen seeds developing regularly.  At the point I checked I found flowers on a few of my maples.  These were all weeping varieties, but that should affect flowers at all.  It was fascinating to see what they look like, and to see the very start of the winged samara seeds developing.  The little green bit in the centre starts to extend out in two directions, slowly forming the seeds we know so well.  I was really happy to capture an image of the flowers like I did.... something they obviously did every year but which I had never seen before.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on October 26, 2009, 11:13:45 AM
Paul, your clues got me on the right track and then ... Google. 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on October 26, 2009, 11:26:24 AM
 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on October 26, 2009, 09:30:19 PM
Here's my very first puzzle, and I don't expect it to be difficult. The only clue you will get is that it is very close-up.
[attachthumb=1]
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on October 26, 2009, 09:54:34 PM
Lesley,

They look a bit like Eranthis seedpods, but no collar.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on October 26, 2009, 11:08:23 PM
Nope.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on October 27, 2009, 04:39:45 AM
Lesley,

Is it one of the mosses or associated ilk?  I can picture something, but I can't quite put my finger on it.

Also looks a bit like a star anise, but that wouldn't be particularly in closeup.  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on October 27, 2009, 08:45:10 AM
Nope.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on October 27, 2009, 10:24:32 AM
What a teaser  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 27, 2009, 11:50:46 AM
Reminded me of Caltha palustris, but too many pods.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on October 27, 2009, 12:10:27 PM
Trollius, Lesley?   ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on October 27, 2009, 07:50:44 PM
Nope. One more day then I'll have to reveal all. Think common garden.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on October 27, 2009, 09:55:24 PM
Just a wild guess....poppy seed heads?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on October 27, 2009, 10:07:46 PM
Aquilegia?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on October 27, 2009, 10:19:05 PM
I go for Sempervivum.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on October 27, 2009, 10:19:17 PM
Nope. You're on the right track though.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on October 27, 2009, 10:33:13 PM
Sedum?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 27, 2009, 10:52:09 PM
Jovibarba (i.e. Sempervivum as done by the splitters)?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on October 27, 2009, 11:07:50 PM
Last try for today: Caltha
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on October 27, 2009, 11:52:39 PM
  
I go for Sempervivum.

And right you are Luit. It seems your answer was posted just a few seconds before I said no, but yours hadn't appeared when I sent mine. :)
 
It is an old seedhead from a sempervivum and taken on a wet day. The previous day had been dry and it looked less like a seed head and more like some sort of geometric design. It was that I wanted, but missed it. Well done Luit. Sorry there's no prize. :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on October 28, 2009, 08:40:37 PM
Luit, I meant on the right track with seed heads. :) seems the answer was more puzzling than the question. ??? :D I'll let others provide the puzzles from now on. :-[
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on October 28, 2009, 08:43:55 PM
- A new puzzle -

What is it? ???
Your quotes please! :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 28, 2009, 08:46:36 PM
Lydia after a night outside because she let the mice eat your crocus.......?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on October 28, 2009, 08:49:27 PM
Armin, that is certainly a bad hair day. Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on October 28, 2009, 08:54:11 PM
A green way to wash your hair - try it  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on October 28, 2009, 08:55:13 PM
I fear I'm getting into deeper and deeper water here. Anthony I said no to Aquilegia and something else(meaning not their seedheads. It was obviously a seed head) but then as I was posting "you're on the right track though," Luit was posting "sempervivum." He posted 12 seconds before I did, but his hadn't appeared for me before I sent my post.

Now, I think I'm answering posts that have been removed because they're in my Inbox but not in the topic. ??? ??? ???

edit by maggi: I removed some of the posts which had crossed in the ether and got everyone confused  :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on October 28, 2009, 08:56:37 PM
Armin, is it a Saussurea? or an electrified cat? :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on October 28, 2009, 08:59:11 PM
Quote
I'll let others provide the puzzles from now on.

No way, your puzzle was a real brain teaser Lesley, you can't get off the band wagon now, especially as there is so much that could be puzzling from the SH  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on October 28, 2009, 09:55:23 PM
Maggi, not Lydia but picture was made after a cold night ;D
Lesley, no "Snow Lotus" and not an animal ;D
Robin, green it is - yes! ;D
Paddy, very hairy - yes! ;D

Any further ideas now?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Michael J Campbell on October 28, 2009, 10:04:01 PM
Cortederia Plume after a bad night.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 28, 2009, 10:10:29 PM
Cortederia Plume after a bad night.
I wondered that, Michael, but is the one in the pic not too "fat"? Maybe another grass head.... greatly magnified?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on October 28, 2009, 10:18:46 PM
Michael, I endorse Maggi - no it is not Pampas Gras. Hmm! :)

It is something which all of you alpine enthusiasts have certainly seen in spring... maybe nothing you would expect in autuum.
Now it should be easy. :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lori S. on October 28, 2009, 10:41:10 PM
Salix... ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on October 28, 2009, 11:04:02 PM
Lori, sorry for you - no Salix.

Maggi is getting closer "Maybe another grass head.... greatly magnified?" :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Michael J Campbell on October 28, 2009, 11:05:10 PM
Seed head of Dryas
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on October 28, 2009, 11:10:19 PM
Michael,
a very good guess :o but still no hit ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on October 28, 2009, 11:12:35 PM
Not a pulsatilla at this end of the year?

paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lori S. on October 29, 2009, 01:53:13 AM
An incredibly large, fluffy Eriophorum?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on October 29, 2009, 09:56:00 AM
Lori, sorry again - no cotton gras :-*

Paddy, congratulation for the direct hit with your 2nd quote ! ;D

Yes, it is the first bud of a Pulsatilla halleri subsp. rhodopaea. Unusual timing - as it should flower in March.
I do not know much of the distribution of this species, is it endemic to Greece ?
Seed germinated spring 2008 and was ex Karl Plaimer kindly shared by Thomas Huber. Many thanks!

Here the puzzle photo taken last week when we got the first frost and fresh photos from this morning.
I pray just for a bit of more sunshine :D

Many thanks for all who contributed to solve the puzzle - it was a great fun ::) :P ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on October 29, 2009, 10:44:03 AM
Great fun, I agree - such an extraordinary looking thing but now in context it looks even more amazing in the frost and with all that Fuzz  8)  Thanks Armin  :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 29, 2009, 11:13:52 AM
Amazing! 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 29, 2009, 11:52:31 AM
Whoa! You had me fooled there! I was thinking it was too fat and furry to be a pulsatilla seedhead.... never thought it might be a bud! :-[  That was a  very good puzzle!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on October 29, 2009, 02:23:57 PM
OH, YES, I AM BRILLIANT!!!!!!!! LOL

I thought it was a pulsatilla as soon as I saw it but then thought it couldn't be at this time of year.

Armin, the photographs with frost are beautiful.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on October 29, 2009, 02:32:26 PM
Many congratulations Armin, the frost shot is BEAUTIFUL!  Well done young Paddy!   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on October 29, 2009, 07:32:58 PM
Lovely shots of a super plant Armin. The frost effects are very lovely. And well done Paddy. :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on October 29, 2009, 08:52:14 PM
Thanks to all for the lovely comments.
I'm glad you liked my puzzle and the photos.

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 29, 2009, 11:37:41 PM
Here's one that shouldn't be too difficult?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on October 30, 2009, 12:00:16 AM
Anthony,

A cocoon of something?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on October 30, 2009, 12:31:15 AM
A baby coconut ... without nappy or dummy?   ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on October 30, 2009, 01:20:00 AM
Anthony

Do you own a rabbit? :D

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on October 30, 2009, 03:30:35 AM
Something a dung beetle dropped by the wayside?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Rogan on October 30, 2009, 07:47:17 AM
I've no idea Anthony, but perhaps it's a cocoon of some sort?

I've a puzzle of me own for you - what's this natural object (the file name should give you a clue)?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Michael J Campbell on October 30, 2009, 10:33:47 AM
Anthony, is it a ball full of spiders eggs?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on October 30, 2009, 11:00:50 AM
Rogan,

It's either an elephant with it's eye closed, or perhaps an exfoliating rock?  Or aliens.... it could always be aliens.  In fact so could Anthony's...... when no-one is looking these little legs pop out and it runs off, or something like that.....  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 30, 2009, 11:33:50 AM
I have no idea what either of these are.... but I DO LOVE this topic!!  8) ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on October 30, 2009, 11:46:23 AM
Anthony,
looks like a dung scoop of a dung beetle?

Rogan,
a dunghill from an elephant or rhino? Or a hot spring?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on October 30, 2009, 01:34:03 PM
Rogan,

I go with Paul's suggestion - an exfoliating rock, or an example, in other words, of weathering on rock, hot days, cool nights, flaking rock.

Anthony, an egg capsule of some sort?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 30, 2009, 05:57:30 PM
Mine is not of animal origin. It is about the size of a Kiwi fruit, but is not fruit nor seed.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on October 30, 2009, 06:13:42 PM
Vegetable?  If it was covered in breadcrumbs instead of hairy bits I would have said Scotch egg  :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on October 30, 2009, 06:38:31 PM
Anthony,

It is not the innards of a ball of some sort, say a cricket ball or the like?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on October 30, 2009, 06:43:58 PM
Funnily enough, Paddy, I thought it might be a bald tennis ball!

I should be cooking supper but this round fuzzy puzzle is really getting to me - too round and uniform  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on October 30, 2009, 07:07:54 PM
Inner core of a golf ball?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Martinr on October 30, 2009, 07:37:12 PM
I'd say Anthony's was a hair ball coughed up by a cat and Rogan's is 'onion' weathering in an Olivine rich rock, if I remember my Geology correctly!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 30, 2009, 09:45:21 PM
Definitely natural. Maggi will tell you. ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 30, 2009, 09:48:29 PM
Definitely natural. Maggi will tell you. ;D
Of course I'm perfectly natural, Anthony.... why would anyone want to FAKE my look? :o ;D

I'm  saying no more...only that 'tis a super puzzle  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 30, 2009, 10:22:11 PM
If Maggi doesn't, I'll reveal all tomorrow. ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on October 30, 2009, 10:31:20 PM
Is it a gall or growth from a tree?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on October 30, 2009, 10:34:38 PM
Rogan,
I'm not very familiar with SA bulbs.
Is it a basal plate of a dormant bulb/corm?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 30, 2009, 11:33:07 PM
Life's a beach! ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Martin Baxendale on October 30, 2009, 11:41:40 PM
Life's a beach! ::)

Anthony, I've seen those floating in the water off beaches in the Balearics. Someone told me what they are but I've forgotted. Some kind of seed container?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on October 31, 2009, 08:11:54 AM
Life's a beach! ::)
In that case: Posidonia oceanica
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on October 31, 2009, 08:32:13 AM
Oh, so it's a sort of loofah only rotunda  ???  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 31, 2009, 09:53:00 AM
The God of the sea is a clue from me, but this will put you out of your misery. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Posidonia_oceanica
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on October 31, 2009, 10:33:25 AM
Thank goodness - so after restless nights and puzzling days Luit was the wise one who gave us the answer  :P

Wicked puzzle Anthony  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 31, 2009, 11:26:49 AM
Thank goodness - so after restless nights and puzzling days Luit was the wise one who gave us the answer  :P

Wicked puzzle Anthony  ;)

Yes, well done to Luit. ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 31, 2009, 12:00:08 PM
The God of the sea is a clue from me, but this will put you out of your misery. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Posidonia_oceanica

 Interesting fact from the link Anthony gives is that the ball of fibre is called an "egagropili" ... isn't that a wonderful word?


I found this statement from the wiki page puzzling.....
Quote
This species is found only in the Mediterranean Sea, occupying an area about 3% of the basin (corresponding to a surface area of about 38,000 km²), representing a kind of key marine coastal ecosystem.

A sign of a nearby occurrence of Posidonia is the presence of masses of decomposing leaves on beaches. Such plant material has been used for composting, but this is currently prohibited by Italian laws that restrict the use of marine algae and plants for this purpose.

Does anyone know why the authorities have placed this ban on composting this material?  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Rogan on October 31, 2009, 12:24:15 PM
Well done!! Mine certainly is an exfoliating rock - spheroidal weathering (onion-skin) involving basalt rock in a road cutting on the Sani Pass.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 31, 2009, 12:34:14 PM
The God of the sea is a clue from me, but this will put you out of your misery. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Posidonia_oceanica

 Interesting fact from the link Anthony gives is that the ball of fibre is called an "egagropili" ... isn't that a wonderful word?


I found this statement from the wiki page puzzling.....
Quote
This species is found only in the Mediterranean Sea, occupying an area about 3% of the basin (corresponding to a surface area of about 38,000 km²), representing a kind of key marine coastal ecosystem.

A sign of a nearby occurrence of Posidonia is the presence of masses of decomposing leaves on beaches. Such plant material has been used for composting, but this is currently prohibited by Italian laws that restrict the use of marine algae and plants for this purpose.

Does anyone know why the authorities have placed this ban on composting this material?  ???

Not heard of that one Maggi! Here is the Mallorcan take on it.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 31, 2009, 01:32:33 PM
Well done!! Mine certainly is an exfoliating rock - spheroidal weathering (onion-skin) involving basalt rock in a road cutting on the Sani Pass.
Fascinating to learn this.....I did like the Elephant's eye theory, though!  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on October 31, 2009, 01:36:37 PM
Does anyone know why the authorities have placed this ban on composting this material?  ???
Is there anyone who understand authorities? ::) ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 31, 2009, 01:46:58 PM
Does anyone know why the authorities have placed this ban on composting this material?  ???
Is there anyone who understand authorities? ::) ::)
   

Ah, well, you have perhaps got the whole answer there, Luit!

Reading the sign shown by Anthony, I wonder if the Italian rules are to protect the sands from excess erosion by the removal of the foliage? My initial thought was that it was a prohibition on the composting, but pwerhaps the target is the prevention of the removal of the materials?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on October 31, 2009, 01:48:11 PM
Does anyone know why the authorities have placed this ban on composting this material?  ???
Is there anyone who understand authorities? ::) ::)

Being married to a Lancashire lass ... no!!   ;D   Ouch!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 31, 2009, 01:56:59 PM
Does anyone know why the authorities have placed this ban on composting this material?  ???
Is there anyone who understand authorities? ::) ::)
   

Ah, well, you have perhaps got the whole answer there, Luit!

Reading the sign shown by Anthony, I wonder if the Italian rules are to protect the sands from excess erosion by the removal of the foliage? My initial thought was that it was a prohibition on the composting, but pwerhaps the target is the prevention of the removal of the materials?
Whilst we were in Mallorca, the winds brought in lots of sea grass (that in the picture is loose and washed up near the harbour) onto the tourist beaches. It was made into huge hay-stack sized piles.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on October 31, 2009, 01:58:00 PM
I have one of those balls that was washed up on a Donegal beach
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on October 31, 2009, 06:26:59 PM
While having no idea at all why the Italian authorities might forbid the composting of the seagrass balls or foliage, it is interesting (and probably not connected) that a couple of months ago several dogs died or were sick and childeren were thought to be in danger, after walking and playing on a few Auckland beaches. I'm not sure if the exact cause has been established yet but it was generally thought by the medical and scientific community that the cause was probably toxic marine algae on the beach. Possibly in Italy something similar is feared?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 31, 2009, 06:33:31 PM
Possible, Lesley. I have  certainly heard of cases of toxic algae in Scottish lochs which have proved fatal to dogs and I think there may have been instances of a marine algae with similar toxicity.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 31, 2009, 07:16:19 PM
Only this is not toxic, nor is it algae, according to the notice. I suppose it is to stop people harvesting the living plants, but I think the majority would become very vocal it it was left on the beach and started to rot!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on October 31, 2009, 07:48:32 PM
Well done!! Mine certainly is an exfoliating rock - spheroidal weathering (onion-skin) involving basalt rock in a road cutting on the Sani Pass.

Exfoliating rock? Rock losing its leaves? Thought you might be losing your marbles Rogan. ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 31, 2009, 08:33:07 PM
Well done!! Mine certainly is an exfoliating rock - spheroidal weathering (onion-skin) involving basalt rock in a road cutting on the Sani Pass.
Extraordinary.... never seen such a thing, so my thought was that it must be a petrified/fossilised bubbling hot mud pool  :P :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 10:02:50 AM
My puzzle for a wet Sunday morning here in East Lancashire ...    ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on November 01, 2009, 10:06:11 AM
Quill (as in pen)?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on November 01, 2009, 10:12:56 AM
Good morning, Cliff.

Is it an insect sting? or an ovipositor? or perhaps an insect leg?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 10:14:23 AM
David - Nil (as in no)   :D

Paddy - my apologies - your answer must have been posted at the same time as this reply to David - but your super guesses aren't correct.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 10:48:07 AM
Not related to puzzle One ... here is puzzle Two.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on November 01, 2009, 11:02:37 AM
Very arty images, Cliff.
Is the first some kind of seedpod?   Number 2 -  crocodile ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 12:38:44 PM
Congratulations Gunilla ... one out of two.

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 01, 2009, 02:03:22 PM
Quill from a mammal?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 02:09:46 PM
Sorry Mark ... no!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 01, 2009, 03:15:05 PM
My puzzle for a wet Sunday morning here in East Lancashire ...    ???
Just a guess: Physoplexis comosa  ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 03:29:39 PM
Afraid not, Luit.

A clue tomorrow if needed.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 01, 2009, 03:49:23 PM
This is like the game animal, vegetable, mineral
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on November 01, 2009, 03:53:40 PM
A blackthorn spike?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 04:18:12 PM
Sorry Robin, not right this time.

It's certainly one of those three, Mark!   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 01, 2009, 04:23:59 PM


It's certainly one of those three, Mark!   :D

 That's a relief!  :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 01, 2009, 07:43:57 PM
wet? rib of an umbrella?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on November 01, 2009, 07:56:56 PM
Cliff, is it a sting of a bee or wasp?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 08:02:00 PM
Sorry Luit.  I will have to rain on your latest guess.

Armin, it pains me to say; 'No'.


Clue time : The image was captured at Rodney Bay (?).  ;) :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 01, 2009, 08:06:40 PM
Cliff, is it a sting of a bee or wasp?
Good grief! I hope not.... the beast would be huge, wouldn't it? :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 01, 2009, 08:08:24 PM



Clue time : The image was captured at Rodney Bay (?).  ;) :D

In St. Lucia? where crazy friends of mine go to play golf??????? :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 08:18:28 PM
The very place, Maggi ... but on the huge natural bunker by the waves.  :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on November 01, 2009, 08:23:04 PM
Something from a stingray? or fish then? Whatever, it looks as if it could inflict severe pain. :'(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on November 01, 2009, 08:56:04 PM
Cliff,
ahh - a spike of a see urchin instead?
I had a bad experience with see urchins once in Côte d’Azur >:(
More then 50 spikes in my plantar :'(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 09:00:04 PM
Sorry Lesley and Armin,
This hasn't come out of the ocean!  ???  :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 01, 2009, 09:05:32 PM
bill tip of a wader
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on November 01, 2009, 09:16:32 PM
Cliff,
hmm -caribic - big game fishing - a tip of a fish hook?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 09:22:19 PM
Mark is getting VERY close!

Sorry, Aemin.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on November 01, 2009, 09:25:44 PM
It belongs to a bird - quill or a claw?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 01, 2009, 09:48:38 PM
Mmm. Perhaps the tip of a hummingbird beak?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 10:11:21 PM
There is no kidding you, Mr Darby!  Congratulations!

This poor deceased hummingbird was lying on the sand beneath the palm trees alongside an equally deceased bat.

I couldn't resist photographing them both.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 01, 2009, 10:13:36 PM
Extraordinary! A great puzzle!! Unfortunate bird, but an opportunity for us to see it at close quarters.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on November 01, 2009, 10:16:14 PM
A sad picture behind the puzzle :(
But that's wild life - merciless.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 10:18:53 PM
Thanks folks!

The bat and the bird
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 01, 2009, 10:27:28 PM
Did it have a patch of violet-blue feathers on its breast Cliff?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on November 01, 2009, 10:35:53 PM
Glorious colour on the hummingbird, Cliff.  Makes you wonder why there were fresh corpses of the two of them under the same tree at the same time. Hopefully just a coincidence.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 01, 2009, 11:33:47 PM


The bat and the bird
Is the bat a Horseshoe Bat, Anthony?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on November 01, 2009, 11:39:12 PM
Sad yes, but a good puzzle.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 01, 2009, 11:49:14 PM
Did it have a patch of violet-blue feathers on its breast Cliff?

Sorry Anthony - too long ago to remember.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 02, 2009, 05:52:27 AM
Great puzzle Cliff!
But hard to expect this sort of birds in Lancashire on a wet Sunday morning ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on November 02, 2009, 08:23:33 AM
Such a wide range of suggestions - I would never have guessed it!  A great presentation of a puzzle Cliff and even though sad the iridescence on the hummingbird feathers is wonderful to see close up.  Well done to Anthony for guessing it  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 02, 2009, 09:01:06 AM
Many thanks, Robin.

Next puzzle ...

PUZZLE 3
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 02, 2009, 09:02:26 AM
Great puzzle Cliff!
But hard to expect this sort of birds in Lancashire on a wet Sunday morning ;)

You are correct, Luit ... usually Thursday!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on November 02, 2009, 09:05:44 AM
Puzzle 3...a meercat's claw  :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 02, 2009, 09:19:08 AM
Well, there goes the record for puzzle solving on this forum!!!

Congratulations Robin!   (Reminder to self ... must try harder)!   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on November 02, 2009, 09:37:30 AM
 :o   8)   ;)  A mere chance, Cliff, your puzzle was the catalyst  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 02, 2009, 09:40:28 AM
:o   8)   ;)  A mere chance, Cliff, your puzzle was the catalyst  ;D

Maggi ... please call out the pun patrol - we have a violation!   :)

Hope you have survived the dreadful weather that has inflicted Aberdeen and surroundings over the weekend?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 02, 2009, 11:02:57 AM
Glug....glug....gloop......gloop.......uuurrrgh!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on November 02, 2009, 12:11:36 PM
Thanks folks!

The bat and the bird

Of course, you will all know the connection between the deceased Hummingbird and James Bond....

I honeymooned once in Rodney Bay where I remember seeing hummingbirds for the first time and learning the answer to the above..
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 02, 2009, 12:17:34 PM
An enigma within a puzzle?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on November 02, 2009, 01:59:22 PM
Arty puzzle - real or fake?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 02, 2009, 02:22:48 PM

I honeymooned once in Rodney Bay where I remember seeing hummingbirds for the first time and learning the answer to the above..

I read as meaning a first honeymoon.... had to ask how many other honeymoons you've had, Stephen? ::)
...that beard of yours isn't blue, is it? :o ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 02, 2009, 02:29:17 PM
Arty puzzle - real or fake?

That's an easy one, Robin .... Yes!    :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on November 02, 2009, 02:31:00 PM
Robin,

Eryngium?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on November 02, 2009, 03:51:22 PM
Here is a puzzle from me :

What is this ?

Hans 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 02, 2009, 04:12:30 PM
Cliffs bat looks like one of the spear-nosed bats

A list of bat species on my web site
http://www.batdetective.com/botw.htm (http://www.batdetective.com/botw.htm)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on November 02, 2009, 04:14:19 PM

I read as meaning a first honeymoon.... had to ask how many other honeymoons you've had, Stephen? ::)
...that beard of yours isn't blue, is it? :o ;)

Honeymoons? That would be telling....

Beard? Well, it used to be blue - I was known in these parts as Stephen "Blåskjegg"...and before you get any ideas, I'm not wealthy and don't live in a Chateau (don't have them here)!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 02, 2009, 04:36:40 PM
Here is a puzzle from me :

What is this ?

Hans 8)
Black Truffle?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on November 02, 2009, 04:41:41 PM
Hans,

Chamaecyparis seed?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on November 02, 2009, 05:57:08 PM
Robin,

Eryngium?

Paddy

Yes, Paddy, a very attractive one to me and the bees - I took a photo of it a couple of years ago in the Botanical Gardens at Champex Lac
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on November 02, 2009, 06:58:19 PM
A lovely plant, Robin

The spiky leaves gave it away for me.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on November 02, 2009, 07:25:09 PM
Quote
Black Truffle?
         


Yes Anthony  ;D ;D ;D

this is a Tuber melanosporum !

Hans
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 02, 2009, 08:15:09 PM
Quote
Black Truffle?
       


Yes Anthony  ;D ;D ;D

this is a Tuber melanosporum !

Hans
I have said before that Barbara is a very experienced  and clever Fungus hunter!  8) 8) :) ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on November 02, 2009, 08:18:24 PM
 ;D Maggi ,

no chance to find here "Tartuffo" ......we buy it always in this time from a italian restaurant  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 02, 2009, 11:14:31 PM
Did it have a patch of violet-blue feathers on its breast Cliff?

Sorry Anthony - too long ago to remember.
Probably the Green Doctor Bird (Sericotes holoserieus), as that is the only green hummingbird (according to James Bond) that is found on St. Lucia
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 02, 2009, 11:25:06 PM
Puzzle 3...a meercat's claw  :-\
This is the closest I've been to a meercat this year!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on November 03, 2009, 12:55:33 PM
Probably the Green Doctor Bird (Sericotes holoserieus), as that is the only green hummingbird (according to James Bond) that is found on St. Lucia

Well done, Anthony!!  On my visit to St. Lucia I bought a copy of Birds of St. Lucia by James Bond.  Creator of 007, Ian Fleming, a keen birdwatcher, adopted the name James Bond from a book on Birds of the Caribbean....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 03, 2009, 09:35:59 PM
Probably the Green Doctor Bird (Sericotes holoserieus), as that is the only green hummingbird (according to James Bond) that is found on St. Lucia

Well done, Anthony!!  On my visit to St. Lucia I bought a copy of Birds of St. Lucia by James Bond.  Creator of 007, Ian Fleming, a keen birdwatcher, adopted the name James Bond from a book on Birds of the Caribbean....
I have the very book ('Birds of the Caribbean' by James Bond), which I bought in 1992 for a holiday in Jamaica.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 11, 2009, 07:17:49 PM
Time for a new puzzle.
When fixing a part of our many pictures, made during our trip to Britain last month I found this flower.
I think it's not too difficult for many Forumists?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lori S. on November 11, 2009, 07:30:31 PM
Osteospermum.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on November 11, 2009, 08:04:09 PM
Ditto
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 11, 2009, 10:07:47 PM
Well done Lori and Paddy.
I knew it was an easy one :) So have to try harder next time.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Michael J Campbell on November 13, 2009, 02:20:56 PM
Anyone know what this plant is, it should be easy. Sorry for the bad pic.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on November 13, 2009, 02:38:00 PM
Have looked at it for a few  minutes, Michael, and haven't a clue.



For the lovers of truffles:
A woman smells a 750-gram white truffle sold for €100,000 during an auction in Grinzane Cavour during the 79th White Truffle Festival of Alba. The Piedmont region, where Alba is located, is considered to have the best 'tartufo bianco' (white truffles) in the world. Photo: Getty Images



Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on November 13, 2009, 05:32:03 PM
What a piggy - oops biggy  :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 13, 2009, 05:43:12 PM
Anyone know what this plant is, it should be easy.

This is a puzzle! So, it is a "plant", not a pile of seed capsules? ??? ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Michael J Campbell on November 13, 2009, 05:55:58 PM
Yes Maggi,it is a plant,a good plant for beginners, the reason will become clear when the answer is given
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on November 13, 2009, 06:42:36 PM
Still no idea, Michael. It's a twiggy looking thing. Any hints?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on November 13, 2009, 06:52:37 PM
I haven't the faintest idea Michael?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Michael J Campbell on November 13, 2009, 07:02:11 PM
It is a plant from a very dry area :) Doesn't need much water.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 13, 2009, 08:03:46 PM
Resurrection plant?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Michael J Campbell on November 13, 2009, 08:06:56 PM
Yes mark, you got it.

Rose of Jericho = Anastatica hierochuntica
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 13, 2009, 08:11:17 PM
Do you still have it?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Michael J Campbell on November 13, 2009, 08:15:46 PM
Yes mark, I bring it out and put in a bowl of water once a year, it opens out fully overnight. When I take it out of the water it goes to sleep again
in about 24 hours.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Michael J Campbell on November 13, 2009, 08:18:05 PM
I must remember to take a pic when it is open.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 13, 2009, 08:39:00 PM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anastatica (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anastatica) Your plant has seeds.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 13, 2009, 10:27:42 PM
Would never have got that one. :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on November 14, 2009, 03:56:42 AM
Fascinating!!  :o  Yes, according to the link your plant has seed (which is why it is curled up and "dead").  In your pic it looks like you can see some.  By the link the seeds will germinate quite readily if there is enough water, so you can grow yourself some live ones and make some more little dead balls to play with.  ;D  What an unusual little beatie.  Thanks Michael.  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on November 14, 2009, 07:39:35 AM
Michael, now I have read the Wiki link about your puzzle plant it is quite fascinating how it grows and seeds itself against the odds in the desert - I had noticed the spoon-shaped cups where the seeds sit but had no idea at all about what plant it was - thank you to you and Mark for showing another wonder in the plant kingdom  :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 14, 2009, 08:55:58 AM
Robin I only guessed correctly. I came in late. I hadnt looked at this thread for a while. I used to have one but it died. :'( Honest!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on November 14, 2009, 09:23:46 AM
Michael  amazing 8), thanks for showing, would like to see a picture when it is open.

Mark- thanks for the link its amazing what you come up with you must be a whizz kid on computers.
Thanks Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 14, 2009, 09:29:44 AM
Angie it's more like I spend way too much time online
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 14, 2009, 09:51:05 AM
Angie it's more like I spend way too much time online
??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ???

click
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on November 14, 2009, 10:05:09 AM
 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 14, 2009, 10:07:43 AM
Yes that would be me.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 18, 2009, 07:24:51 PM
This Monday I saw these berries at the Weekly Lisse Flowershow.
One kind are from a shrub and the other ones are from a bulbous plant... anybody knows them??
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on November 18, 2009, 07:30:39 PM
I don't know Luit, but I like the plate very much ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lori S. on November 18, 2009, 08:16:32 PM
The red ones look like Iris foetidissima (except for the one that appears to be a cherry(?)):
http://www.google.ca/imgres?imgurl=http://www.kevockgarden.co.uk/plantlist/media/iris_foetidissima_seeds.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.kevockgarden.co.uk/plantlist/iris_foetidissima.htm&h=292&w=323&sz=14&tbnid=NX3Vc6Q0BfRAzM:&tbnh=107&tbnw=118&prev=/images%3Fq%3Diris%2Bfoetidissima&hl=en&usg=__viNo5IK8oXgCCRfQoZPHhJ3Kz6w=&ei=3lUES7vcDoWuswOk9qTEDg&sa=X&oi=image_result&resnum=3&ct=image&ved=0CAsQ9QEwAg
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Roma on November 18, 2009, 08:23:42 PM
Are the red seeds Littonia modesta?  I'm sure I've seen the brown ones too but can't think of a name.  Bladder nut comes to mind.  Staphyllea?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on November 18, 2009, 10:48:47 PM
I'm with Lori - Iris foetidissima with the red seeds. No idea what the brown ones are. And the large red - maybe a crabapple?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 18, 2009, 11:49:03 PM
If they had been yellower I would have said sea buckthorn?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on November 19, 2009, 09:07:17 AM
A guess: could be Viburnum opulus Xanthocarpum (Yellow-berried Guelder Rose).
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 19, 2009, 09:24:31 AM
No wonder you came to Scotland for good food, Luit!   ;D

Do you have custard on them?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 19, 2009, 10:28:48 AM
No wonder you came to Scotland for good food, Luit!   ;D

Do you have custard on them?
Jummie!!   :D :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 19, 2009, 10:30:03 AM
Lori and Paddy, you are on the same wrong trail as most people in the Show Hall, but Roma has the right solution.
Roma, you do surprise many times with your enormous knowledge. Staphylea are the other berries.
You may have a look at the Weekly Lisse Show where I put the names to the berries.

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on November 19, 2009, 11:49:29 AM
Not an iris - a paeonia then?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 19, 2009, 12:00:23 PM
Not an iris - a paeonia then?

Paddy

Paddy, Roma solved the whole puzzle.... Littonia pods with the red berries and Staphylea for the brown.
She's one smart cookie, is Roma!  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on November 19, 2009, 12:05:39 PM
Not an iris - a paeonia then?

Paddy

She's one smart cookie, is Roma!  8)

A chocolate chip one at that!!!  :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on November 19, 2009, 12:25:46 PM
Ah, I  must be asleep here this morning. Certainly not able to do much as we are unable to get out at all - gales and torrential rain and our road is flooded so we couldn't get out to do our grocery shopping.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 19, 2009, 04:01:17 PM
Quote
No wonder you came to Scotland for good food, Luit!   

Do you have custard on them?
Quote
[She's one smart cookie, is Roma!
Quote
A chocolate chip one at that!!! 


Scottish food with custard, smart cookies and chocolate chips. No wonder that I love this Forum  ;D ;D ;D


Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Roma on November 19, 2009, 08:31:26 PM
I surprise myself sometimes!  I have a superficial knowledge of a wide range of plants.  I've been studying plant and seed catalogues since my teens.  There is a wide selection of hardy plants in the Cruickshank Garden and there used to be quite a variety in the greenhouses.  I tried growing lots of plants from seed so I often know I have seen a plant at some time but remembering the name is a different matter.  It took a while to track down the latin name of the bladder nut but found it eventually in The Hillier Colour Dictionary of Shrubs and Trees (1981).
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on November 20, 2009, 02:26:50 AM
Quite apart from the puzzle itself, what a beautiful plateful it is. A lovely table decoration for the end of the year.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 25, 2009, 03:47:00 PM
?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: maggiepie on November 25, 2009, 03:52:43 PM
?


Alstroemeria tubers?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 25, 2009, 04:02:58 PM
X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Michael J Campbell on November 25, 2009, 04:23:26 PM
Dactylorhiza O'Kellyii. ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 25, 2009, 04:37:13 PM
X

Michael the roots of okellyi are too tangled. Remind me next summer.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: KentGardener on November 25, 2009, 04:37:39 PM
Roscoea  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 25, 2009, 05:18:57 PM
Ding!
Well done. R. humeana with a dirty brownish purple flower.
I dug it out of the garden yesterday because every year its flowering time happens when we get a period of sunny weather. The flowers only last a day or two. It took me a couple of hours to seperate out 10 plants. I did break off and crack a few fingers.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Roma on November 25, 2009, 05:32:36 PM
Ding!
Well done. R. humeana with a dirty brownish purple flower.
I dug it out of the garden yesterday because every year its flowering time happens when we get a period of sunny weather. The flowers on last a day or two. It took me a couple of hours to seperate out 10 plants. I did break off and crack a few fingers.

Your's or the Roscoea's?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 25, 2009, 05:43:48 PM
Nearly mine too because I was using a nail to try and move fingers apart. What are the fingers called anyway?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 25, 2009, 05:58:30 PM
Nearly mine too because I was using a nail to try and move fingers apart. What are the fingers called anyway?

 Digits?  :D

You might have broken a nail, Mark, that can ruin the look of the fingers........... ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on November 25, 2009, 06:16:08 PM
ming-ging Mark still has dirt under his nils  :o ::). Now that I have them seperated I dont have anywhere to plant them. If only it was yesterday Maggi  ;) :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on November 25, 2009, 07:33:48 PM
It could equally be the root mass of a well-established Weldenia candida.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on December 17, 2009, 05:49:15 PM
See this page for another picture puzzle from this week's Bulb Log........

http://www.srgc.org.uk/smf/index.php?topic=4690.msg126224#msg126224
 :D
 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on December 29, 2009, 10:43:44 AM
Help needed: This photograph is part of a newspaper quiz here in Ireland - can you identify the garden?

It is the last of the 40 questions and the only one which has stumped me - and it is annoying me as the garden is familiar but I can't put a name on it.

Any keen-eyed garden visitors out there who can help?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on December 29, 2009, 10:50:29 AM
Believe it or not, after a week mulling over this photograph and then posting it here on the puzzle page of the forum, it has finally struck me which garden it is.

I'll leave it as a puzzle for a day or two but will give the hint that Ashley was the one I should have asked.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ashley on December 29, 2009, 10:52:17 AM
It's Bantry House Paddy.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on December 29, 2009, 11:35:22 AM
With the biggest wisteria circle in Ireland!

It was a question in Jane Powers' Christmas Quiz in the Irish Times Weekend Magazine.

Thanks, Ashley.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on December 29, 2009, 08:18:22 PM
I'm in the mood for a quiz.  Let's see how quickly this can be identified:
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on December 29, 2009, 08:42:09 PM
Is it a pic of the little rosettes that sometimes form on a stem of encrusted saxifrage flowers?
No, it's not.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on December 29, 2009, 08:48:44 PM
Is it a pic of the little rosettes that sometimes form on a stem of encrusted saxifrage flowers?  
No

Quote
No, it's not.
Correct, no, it's not

(I was wondering who would be first with the right answer - Lesley I thought, if she's up yet)
There's a challenge for you Lesley  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on December 29, 2009, 09:01:35 PM
Aeonium?


Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on December 29, 2009, 09:11:11 PM
Well I'm up all right (it's 10 past 10am on the 30th Dec at present) but not up to it, obviously. The brain isn't working properly yet. :(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on December 29, 2009, 09:16:26 PM
Aeonium?   Paddy 

No Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on December 29, 2009, 09:16:38 PM
I've been sitting gazing at it for a full 5 minutes and NOTHING springs to mind. Help me here Maggi, slip me the answer under the desk. :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on December 29, 2009, 09:18:01 PM
Well I'm up all right (it's 10 past 10am on the 30th Dec at present) but not up to it, obviously. The brain isn't working properly yet. :(

How can you be 13 hours ahead of us (it's 21.10 here) ?? do you have summer time?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on December 29, 2009, 09:18:54 PM
Fat chance, Lesley! I feel I have seen something like this very recently... but have no idea WHERE! Can't have been the sea slug site, surely??? ::) :-\ :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on December 29, 2009, 10:02:03 PM
Some sort of Kalanchoe?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on December 29, 2009, 10:11:56 PM
Some sort of Kalanchoe? 

No, forget all Crassulaceae
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on December 29, 2009, 10:19:00 PM
One of those weird variants of Plantago ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on December 29, 2009, 10:48:30 PM
I would have cheerfully suggested rosulate viola (see the floral remains bottom right) until I spotted the humungous leaves in the background  :-\ ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on December 29, 2009, 10:57:25 PM
I would have cheerfully suggested rosulate viola :-\ ???

If only  ;D  ;D

Tony gets the prize for inventiveness, but Giles gets the prize for skill!  Well done, it's Plantago rosularis Bowles Variety.  
I was thinking of some contorted clue with a Bowles connection, but didn't need it.

Giles, your turn to set a puzzle  ...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on December 29, 2009, 11:03:59 PM
Quote
Plantago rosularis Bowles Variety
You mean people GROW that ? Now that is a REAL puzzle!  :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on December 29, 2009, 11:11:19 PM
Quote
Plantago rosularis Bowles Variety
You mean people GROW that ? Now that is a REAL puzzle!  :P   

Oh no, it GROWS itself  ;D  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on December 29, 2009, 11:16:04 PM
Very interesting. It would serve several purposes in my garden: tortoise food; caterpillar food (certain small fritillaries) and a fascinating looking plant.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on December 29, 2009, 11:20:56 PM
Quote
Plantago rosularis Bowles Variety
You mean people GROW that ? Now that is a REAL puzzle!  :P
After several early lessons learned the hard way I now have a mantra .... 'Easy from seed makes it a weed'
Seems like this is the difference between plantago and rosulate viola. :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on December 29, 2009, 11:22:59 PM
After several early lessons learned the hard way I now have a mantra .... 'Easy from seed makes it a weed'
Seems like this is the difference between plantago and rosulate viola. :)   

But a rosulate viola is easy from seed (with GA) it's the next bit that's the problem   ;)  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on December 29, 2009, 11:41:23 PM
Quote
Plantago rosularis Bowles Variety
You mean people GROW that ? Now that is a REAL puzzle!  :P   

Oh no, it GROWS itself  ;D  ;D

 Well, to be honest, they ALL do, don't they? Or not ,as the case may be! We just like to think we have a hand in it! ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on December 30, 2009, 07:57:40 AM
I'll leave you with this one, then....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on December 30, 2009, 08:54:01 AM
I think I know this one!!  Is it Australian?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Luc Gilgemyn on December 30, 2009, 09:07:58 AM
My guess is for a number of leaves caught in some ice..  :-\
(if I'm right, definitely not Australian Paul...  ;D )
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on December 30, 2009, 09:23:34 AM
Oh blast, Paul, I had assumed you were in bed and I would get away with this one, for indeed, it is Australian.
But should we keep it a secret from the others?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on December 30, 2009, 09:36:28 AM
Giles,

I ummed and aaahed as to whether to say anything in the first place.  I shouldn't have posted at all.

And you're time scale is WAY off.  It is currently only 8:35pm here, so way before bedtime.   ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Luc Gilgemyn on December 30, 2009, 09:58:41 AM
mmm I guess I was wrong then...  :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on December 30, 2009, 09:59:22 AM
I scratch my head (no wonder there is so little hair left) and drag from the depths the idea that it is a seed pod of a tree...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on December 30, 2009, 10:06:56 AM
Yes, getting there...
Cone of an Australian Plant.
In this case a trashy trinket made from the above.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on December 30, 2009, 10:13:15 AM
Yes, somewhat polished.  ;D  Not quite as big and bad as it's natural form. 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on December 30, 2009, 10:17:55 AM
Not Banksia is it?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ashley on December 30, 2009, 10:53:09 AM
I second Brian.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on December 30, 2009, 10:56:48 AM
I'm impressed!
I bought a pot at Kew made from a Banksia cone a few years ago; here it is:
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ashley on December 30, 2009, 11:12:06 AM
Wonderful structures aren't they?  Distinctive too ;)
Thanks Giles.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on December 30, 2009, 11:21:58 AM
Great cones, those Banksias.....very decorative...... Ian was given one a few years ago, adapted to be a pen holder but the pen it came with soon disintegrated and we've never found another which fits the blooming thing! :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on December 30, 2009, 11:57:13 AM
Very impressive cones, most attractive, thank God the little grey cells are still there!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on December 30, 2009, 12:22:28 PM
Tony gets the prize for inventiveness, but Giles gets the prize for skill!  Well done, it's Plantago rosularis Bowles Variety.  
I was thinking of some contorted clue with a Bowles connection, but didn't need it.

Sorry, a bit late reading this thread.

This is quite commonly grown over here, but I've only ever heard it called Plantago major "Rosularis" (googling Bowles variety, I see it's a synonym). However, it was known long before Bowles' time - I discovered to my astonishment that it was cultivated as long ago as 1629!. See the picture below taken in Chelsea Physic Garden in London! I have a little thing for this species and have 7 or 8 of them (well, they are edible!)

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on December 30, 2009, 02:42:39 PM
If that one was too easy, I'll leave you with this:
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on December 30, 2009, 03:06:24 PM

At this time of year that IS easy.... it's one of Santa's reindeers' horns! ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on December 30, 2009, 04:32:07 PM
Definitely a plant  8)
Some older wood.
(It's a branching pattern-thing).
Can tie it in knots.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on December 30, 2009, 04:43:42 PM
Some sort of vine?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on December 30, 2009, 04:49:41 PM
No, Anthony - a free standing shrub.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on December 30, 2009, 04:52:49 PM
Usually yellow flowers, but a red flowered cultivar is available.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on December 30, 2009, 06:23:49 PM
Then it must be Edgeworthia - hope mine has survived!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on December 30, 2009, 06:37:34 PM
 ;)
(I don't know anything else with that pattern of branching; I think I need a lie down now  8) )
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 30, 2009, 06:38:08 PM
Then it must be Edgeworthia - hope mine has survived!

Brian - That's what I was thinking.  Saw this great one on Long Island a year ago and was surprised to see it growing that far north and looking so good. I hear Akebono is much less hardy.

johnw - frigid here (-8c)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on December 30, 2009, 10:11:55 PM
Diane, we do have summer time here and while we have it, we are 13 hours ahead of you and while you have it, we are 11 hours ahead. There's a 2 or 3 week period in autumn and spring when we're 12 hours ahead, when you've started and we haven't or vice versa. We seem to have a bit more now, maybe 7 full months. Great for gardeners and tennis players but dairy farmers don't like it.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on December 30, 2009, 10:33:55 PM
Quote
I hear Akebono is much less hardy.

Well I have E.grandiflora, a young bush so I hope it will cope with this weather, I had hoped for a 'Red Dragon' but it was sold out.  The scent is wonderful.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on December 30, 2009, 11:51:02 PM
A new one on me. :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on December 31, 2009, 09:55:34 AM
This is possibly why Anthony

‣ Frost hardy to Frost tender - Plant can withstand temperatures to -5°C (23°F) but might only tolerate as low 5°C (41°F)

Hence my concern!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 31, 2009, 01:54:06 PM
This is possibly why Anthony

‣ Frost hardy to Frost tender - Plant can withstand temperatures to -5°C (23°F) but might only tolerate as low 5°C (41°F)

Hence my concern!!

Brian - The Long Island plant would surely have seen -12c to -15c if it's been out for 3 years or more, possibly even -17c.  I can check with friends living nearby who could tell me the lows they have experienced. It is milder there than much of the nearby east coast and they do get alot of summer heat which may help ripening.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 31, 2009, 05:06:39 PM
Brian - This may be good news for your Edgeworthia. Just in from a friend near Planting Fields Arbotretum on Long Island:

"John,- Last winter was the coldest we had in several years and we just touched -17C  here. The previous two winters were more in the range of -12 to -15C which is more
typical of our average winter lows. Oyster Bay, where Planting Fields Arboretum is and where we saw the Edgeworthia, might be a degree or two warmer, they are in a more urbanized area of L.I., down wind and much closer to NY city, which has giant heat dome over it from air pollution. You can get a good indication of that effect by observing when the ubiquitous Forthysia start to bloom, they are about
one week to 10 days ahead of us."

Dirr says E. papyrifera died to the root tips at -3F (-19c) in Georgia,  E. chrysantha and gardenii he rates at Zone 7.  He notes Red Dragon is more tender so lucky you went with Grandiflora.

Good to do a bit of research as I thought the genus had but one species.

johnw - up to -8c at 1:30 pm after -12c last night and on our way to -5c this afternoon.  25mm of rain tomorrow followed by 25cm of snow.  >:(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on December 31, 2009, 05:31:17 PM
Cheers John, I am hopeful but it doesn't look too happy at the moment, perhaps warmer weather will perk it up!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 31, 2009, 05:33:44 PM
Cheers John, I am hopeful but it doesn't look too happy at the moment, perhaps warmer weather will perk it up!

Brian - Is this because the leaves are damaged or bark is split?  I always assumed it was deciduous.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on December 31, 2009, 06:28:32 PM
Maybe Edgeworthia really is a puzzle.....
...I don't know if it's one of those things where there have been multiple introductions from different parts of its range, and these introductions differ in their hardiness.
Bean says it didn't prove hardy at Kew, but they have several well established plants, both as a wall shrub and in an open bed at Wisley.
My biggest plant is in a pot, and I put it in a frost free greenhouse at night if its going to be cold, as it browns quite badly, yet I have several seedlings, which are kept in the greenhouse all of the time, which are still in full leaf.
It's a puzzle  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 31, 2009, 07:01:05 PM
Maybe Edgeworthia really is a puzzle.....
...I don't know if it's one of those things where there have been multiple introductions from different parts of its range, and these introductions differ in their hardiness.
Bean says it didn't prove hardy at Kew, but they have several well established plants, both as a wall shrub and in an open bed at Wisley.
My biggest plant is in a pot, and I put it in a frost free greenhouse at night if its going to be cold, as it browns quite badly, yet I have several seedlings, which are kept in the greenhouse all of the time, which are still in full leaf.
It's a puzzle  ;)

Giles - Thinking back I recall seeing an Edgeworthia in flower at Tony Avent's nursery in North Carolina about 10 years ago. Of course it was deciduous and it was the typical yellow which at the time I assumed was chrysantha.  Surely it must have taken some cold there, probably more than you'd experience. Also a friend tells me it survived in Vancouver after last winter with no damage.  Does it not grow out in wide open grasslands in China?  Maybe it does get some summer heat and a long summer dry stretch.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on December 31, 2009, 08:01:27 PM
Maybe Edgeworthia really is a puzzle.....
...I don't know if it's one of those things where there have been multiple introductions from different parts of its range, and these introductions differ in their hardiness.
Bean says it didn't prove hardy at Kew, but they have several well established plants, both as a wall shrub and in an open bed at Wisley.
My biggest plant is in a pot, and I put it in a frost free greenhouse at night if its going to be cold, as it browns quite badly, yet I have several seedlings, which are kept in the greenhouse all of the time, which are still in full leaf.
It's a puzzle  ;)

 I can't speak to Edgworthia, but lots of smaller plants and bulbs seeem to have seedlings which are much hardier than their parents.Another of life's mysteries!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on December 31, 2009, 09:16:38 PM
Maybe just a matter of the progeny, having been born in situ, being better suited to the prevailing conditions than the parents which may have come from warmer climes.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 31, 2009, 11:29:32 PM
Maybe Edgeworthia really is a puzzle.....
...I don't know if it's one of those things where there have been multiple introductions from different parts of its range, and these introductions differ in their hardiness.
Bean says it didn't prove hardy at Kew, but they have several well established plants, both as a wall shrub and in an open bed at Wisley.
My biggest plant is in a pot, and I put it in a frost free greenhouse at night if its going to be cold, as it browns quite badly, yet I have several seedlings, which are kept in the greenhouse all of the time, which are still in full leaf.
It's a puzzle  ;)

 I can't speak to Edgworthia, but lots of smaller plants and bulbs seeem to have seedlings which are much hardier than their parents.Another of life's mysteries!

And I guess the sloppier one is about growing things from seeds the better the chance of getting good-doers.  To bad it doesn't seem to work with Meconopsis and Asiatic Primulae!   ;D  It would be nice to have some rampant ones.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on January 01, 2010, 03:08:27 PM

 I can't speak to Edgworthia, but lots of smaller plants and bulbs seeem to have seedlings which are much hardier than their parents.Another of life's mysteries!
Genetic variation which allows species to adapt to changes in the environment.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on January 02, 2010, 10:57:31 AM
Quote
Brian - Is this because the leaves are damaged or bark is split?

Sorry John, only just seen this as we had Ann B for lunch yesterday and I didn't get on the computer for long - lot's of snowdrop talk of course!  The leaves seem to have taken a fright, but hopefully it will do it's thing for me nonetheless.  Last year was it's first year in the ground and it was covered with fleece, but this year it had to fend for itself ... I'll keep you posted if it perks up.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on January 02, 2010, 03:05:48 PM
You are the brave one, Brian. They are a bit on the tender side.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on January 14, 2010, 11:38:38 AM
This should be an easy one. What's this plant?

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on January 14, 2010, 12:08:07 PM
Oh... it's a plant? Not a bunch of babies in frilly bonnets?  :o ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Casalima on January 14, 2010, 02:39:12 PM
A friend has used his best botanical knowledge and research skills to arrive at a Coriandrum sativum flower.

If so, very Portuguese (though not so much my part of Portugal ...).

Are we right?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on January 14, 2010, 02:46:39 PM
He is a very clever chap, Chloe ... congratulations!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on January 14, 2010, 06:02:39 PM
A friend has used his best botanical knowledge and research skills to arrive at a Coriandrum sativum flower.

If so, very Portuguese (though not so much my part of Portugal ...).

Are we right?

Very good try, Chloe, but it's wrong I'm afraid...

As for Maggie's attempt, well I see where you're going, but sorry also wrong... :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Casalima on January 14, 2010, 06:17:05 PM
A friend has used his best botanical knowledge and research skills to arrive at a Coriandrum sativum flower.
If so, very Portuguese (though not so much my part of Portugal ...).
Are we right?
Very good try, Chloe, but it's wrong I'm afraid...
As for Maggie's attempt, well I see where you're going, but sorry also wrong... :D
We thought it might be a bit too white for coriander ....
Thinking caps on again ...
(Is it edible?   ::) )
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on January 14, 2010, 07:02:00 PM
Yes, but I don't think that will help you....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on January 14, 2010, 07:04:39 PM
Reminds me of Burnet Saxifrage. No size reference, so could just be Hog weed  (Heracleum sphondylium)?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on January 14, 2010, 08:03:39 PM
Reminds me of Burnet Saxifrage.

No, not salad burnet
No, not saxifrage
No, not burnet saxifrage (good try)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on January 14, 2010, 09:34:58 PM
Wild parsley  ???   But not sure if it's edible.   Ed. No it's definitely not.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on January 14, 2010, 09:54:28 PM
Perhaps Giant Hogweed?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on January 14, 2010, 10:20:01 PM
Reminds me of Burnet Saxifrage. No size reference, so could just be Hog weed  (Heracleum sphondylium)?

Anthony: You must have added the Hogweed bit whilst I was answering! Common old (but rather splendid) Hogweed, Heracleum sphondylium is indeed the correct answer! Congratulations! Picture taken in Hampshire last summer. Apart from Maggie who had the totally wrong branch of the tree of life, all had the correct family!

...yes, it is edible - at least it's included as an excellent spring green in Roger Phillips Wild Food and various Heracleum species have been traditional important food plants in northern regions (North America, Europe to the Far East), fermented like sauerkraut in some areas. However, it does contain some dubious carcinogens.....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on January 14, 2010, 10:59:08 PM
Quote
Apart from Maggie who had the totally wrong branch of the tree of life, all had the correct family!
stuff and nonsense....now Stephen showed the white form

[attach=1]  
 but look.... here is the tessellated version.....
 [attach=2]

......it's a baby I tell you!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on January 15, 2010, 04:44:19 AM
I was thinking along the lines of Hesperis this morning but the name eluded me . Just as well.

I delightful baby Maggi, whose is she?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on January 15, 2010, 07:40:49 AM
Quote
Apart from Maggie who had the totally wrong branch of the tree of life, all had the correct family!
stuff and nonsense....now Stephen showed the white form

......it's a baby I tell you!


Apologies! That really is an astonishing likeness...

So what is the evolutionary advantage of developing such appendages (sorry, tesselations)? More likelihood of being fed nektar perhaps? Interestingly, the honeycomb (bees, nektar) is a tesselated structure...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on January 15, 2010, 12:46:59 PM
An anonymous baby, Lesley, chosen merely to illustrate my theory. Such creatures abound!

In this species, the tessellation is caused by the use of colour in the warp threads only, resulting in these attractive markings; so, here it is the result of a mechanical application, rather than a genetic modification. All rather interesting, though, I'm sure you will agree!  



 ::) ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: vivienr on January 16, 2010, 10:08:37 PM
I was sorting through some old photos that we had managed to recover after a computer crash last year. There are hundreds of photos which have all been shuffled like a pack of cards so it is very difficult to find things.

I came across a picture of this Scottish garden we went to a few years ago and wondered if anyone could recognise it???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on January 16, 2010, 10:31:51 PM
Of course I don't, but I'd give a fair bit for the walls. ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: vivienr on January 17, 2010, 10:05:34 PM
This is a garden that is known by millions but probably visited by very few.

This is the view from the front garden.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on January 17, 2010, 10:39:52 PM
Vivien, famous garden, (far away for many of us) this could be Inverewe Garden, which I hope to visit once?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on January 18, 2010, 04:22:04 AM
If it's Inverewe, I SHOULD know it, as I visited in 1981, but that is, after all, 29 years ago. ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on January 18, 2010, 10:33:31 AM
More clues please
Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: vivienr on January 18, 2010, 12:43:08 PM
Good try Luit, but it is not Inverewe - that gets many visitors. It is a bit further south and on the shore of a loch rather than the sea. It is perhaps more famous by a fictional name rather than its real one.

Unfortunately, the rest my pictures of the garden have been lost but this was taken just outside - I think this is where all that stone for the walls came from, Lesley.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: vivienr on January 19, 2010, 10:36:05 AM
It seems this garden is less well known than I thought! It is only open one afternoon a year (Scottish Gardens Scheme?) but people flock there, particularly fans of a BBC TV series ......

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on January 19, 2010, 10:45:30 AM
Vivien, I never found the garden after much searching yesterday around Loch Lomond but had a whale of a time discovering and rediscovering places.  I thought it was the BBC TV series around 'You tak the high road...' but also was interested that 'Tin Tin' had connections there near Luss too.  The trouble with Scottish Gardens Scheme is that they don't show images of gardens so still in the dark like the Loch Ness Monster!
All very puzzling  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on January 19, 2010, 10:51:05 AM
Ardverikie House, not that I've ever seen the TV program...

Is the garden worth a visit?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: vivienr on January 19, 2010, 11:14:08 AM
Ardverikie House

Well done, Stephen. Ardverikie House aka Glenbogle in the series 'Monarch of the Glen'. We just happened to be staying nearby on its open day.
The garden is quite small but in the most beautiful setting on Loch Laggan. It opens with another small garden on the other side of the loch which provides refreshments. Horticulturally, it is nothing special, but for fans of the programme (or anyone in the area at the time) it is a treat of an afternoon out - I was sooooo excited ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on January 19, 2010, 12:17:01 PM
Take your midgie repellent!  :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on January 19, 2010, 01:33:45 PM
Never watched Monarch of the Glen, so that wouldn't have helped anyway. Still one to mark in the map.
I had a look in my book on Scotlands gardens and its not that far from Aberdeen, so will make a nice day out.
Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on January 19, 2010, 08:53:24 PM
Is "Monarch of the Glen" still on in the UK? We used to get it here but I think the last series was the one in which Lexie married whatsisname and we haven't had it for 3 or 4 years at least. Instead we get the most boring and wooden American garbage such as "Cold Case," 'Without a Trace" and "Criminal Minds." This last is exceptionally violent and unpleasant and I've boycotted the lot of them.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on January 19, 2010, 09:35:48 PM
Darn that's the place I was thinking of but couldn't remember the name of the show.  I think we saw it driving west on the south side of Loch Ness, on the left.  What scenery!

johnw

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: vivienr on January 19, 2010, 11:13:36 PM
John, Loch Laggan is just south of Loch Ness, so you must have seen another Scottish Baronial style house - I think that style was very popular. Strangely enough, while Googling to check how to spell Ardverikie, I discovered that the man who built the house was Sir John William Ramsden who also owned most of Huddersfield including the plot of land that my house was built on.

Lesley, there were 7 series all together finishing in 2005. They have been rerun recently on ITV3 but are all out on DVD. I think the later series were not as popular as there were a lot of changes in cast members, but as my favourite cast member was the scenery, I didn't mind :)

If you Google 'Monarch of the Glen' you can find sites giving details of locations used in the programme and you can even rent a holiday cottage on the estate if you want!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on January 20, 2010, 03:59:09 AM
John, Loch Laggan is just south of Loch Ness, so you must have seen another Scottish Baronial style house - I think that style was very popular. Strangely enough, while Googling to check how to spell Ardverikie, I discovered that the man who built the house was Sir John William Ramsden who also owned most of Huddersfield including the plot of land that my house was built on.

Lesley, there were 7 series all together finishing in 2005. They have been rerun recently on ITV3 but are all out on DVD. I think the later series were not as popular as there were a lot of changes in cast members, but as my favourite cast member was the scenery, I didn't mind :)

If you Google 'Monarch of the Glen' you can find sites giving details of locations used in the programme and you can even rent a holiday cottage on the estate if you want!

Vivien - Sorry we were on the A86 coming from Perth - just checked the map, having turned west at Dalwhinnie.   Does that sound like the right area?

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: vivienr on January 20, 2010, 09:05:30 AM
we were on the A86 come from Perth and having turned west at Dalwhinnie.   Does that sound like the right area?

That's right, you'ld get a great view from that road of the house on the oppossite side of the loch with the hills behind it.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on January 21, 2010, 09:14:37 AM
Easy to identify for some ... difficult for others ...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on January 23, 2010, 12:02:09 PM
Franz, where are you ... I expected you to respond very quickly?   ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on January 23, 2010, 05:46:39 PM
Hmm ...  Saxifraga bryoides or Gentiana (terguoulensis var) schleicheri.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on January 23, 2010, 06:03:27 PM
Tony, I refer you to Franz' post here : http://www.srgc.org.uk/smf/index.php?topic=3888.msg104214#msg104214  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on January 23, 2010, 06:35:12 PM
I'll delete the Sax option then ;D

And Maggi, how did you remember that pic in that thread?  I just relied on my memory of having seen it in the mountains somewhere ... and worked out where.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on January 23, 2010, 06:51:24 PM
Quote
And Maggi, how did you remember that pic in that thread?

I took a long way round.....
I was looking at Franz' site for another gentian photo altogether  the other day and saw that one ( the G. terguloulensis) .. remembered Cliff's  picture, came back for a look......saw Cliff's reference to Franz and put two and two together.....then I  thought I remembered the terguoulensis versus schleicheri comment and searched it.   
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on January 23, 2010, 07:36:59 PM
I am SERIOUSLY impressed Maggi ... by your investigative abilities, your powers of recall and your gentle acceptance of some of Tony's glory!!!   ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D    Very well done to both of you!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on January 23, 2010, 08:03:30 PM
Great puzzle, Cliff, with the idea of a puzzle within another thread and well done to Tony & Maggi - Maggi's Avatar states "There's often a clue"  :)

I went through the Dolomite thread photos searching but missed it - still great to revisit the trip  :-[ :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on January 23, 2010, 08:21:03 PM
...... by your investigative abilities, your powers of recall .....
It's a sign of a convoluted mind , Cliff.  :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on January 23, 2010, 08:41:14 PM
I think we both have too much time on our hands - at least when at work in my case ;)

Here is a nice easy one for you!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on January 23, 2010, 09:36:23 PM
Eritrichium nanum?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on January 24, 2010, 06:20:05 PM
I'll keep the king of the mountains for another day Lesley.  But you have hit the right level, on more than one front.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Michael J Campbell on January 24, 2010, 06:48:27 PM
Haastia pulvinaris ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on January 24, 2010, 08:16:20 PM
I wondered about Myosotis pulvinaris but I don't think the rosettes are the right shape. Maybe an American Eritrichium?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on January 24, 2010, 11:30:23 PM
Veronica caespitosa?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on January 25, 2010, 12:46:51 AM
Nice guesses but not on target yet.  My mountain flower holidays (as reported elsewhere on the forum) have been restricted to one country for the last 10 years.  This should be a good clue for the name of the plant. 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on January 25, 2010, 06:41:26 AM
Three week old Gruyere?   :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on January 25, 2010, 07:45:30 AM
Quote
"Needs to keep warm"

Is this to do with the hairiness or sunlight   ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on January 25, 2010, 10:24:05 AM
Needs to keep warm growing so high up.

Cliff - Gruyere is not a green cheese ... even when 3 weeks old!  I did not expect you to have trouble identifying such a special and swiss plant ;) 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on January 25, 2010, 10:37:28 AM
Needs to keep warm growing so high up.

Cliff - Gruyere is not a green cheese ... even when 3 weeks old!  I did not expect you to have trouble identifying such a special and swiss plant ;) 

Now Tony, surely you aren't going to tell me that that is Androsace helvetica?  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on January 25, 2010, 12:12:33 PM
I made it too easy with that last clue :D

Tucked into a rock crevice atop the Schilthorn.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on January 25, 2010, 02:46:42 PM
This shouldn't be too hard, it was shown once before on SRGC Forum.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on February 05, 2010, 04:02:14 AM
My mystery plant seems to have been the kiss of death on this otherwise active thread.  Need clues?  The plant isn't interesting?  It's a great plant with milky white flowers and not the slightest bit weedy. ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: samsgarden on February 05, 2010, 06:18:54 AM
The leaves appeared familiar... an Amsonia?  I looked around and found a white flowered form of Amsonia elliptica.  The flowers from both your puzzle pic and the Japanese plant look very much alike as do the leaves. Or am I wishful thinking?  I do wish your mystery plant was in my garden!
Sharon
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on February 05, 2010, 11:05:08 AM
Sharon, Mark,

Yes, I grew Amsonia some years ago and this photographs certainly reminds me of it.

Well, Mark, is Sharon correct?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on February 05, 2010, 04:48:50 PM
Sharon, Mark,
Yes, I grew Amsonia some years ago and this photographs certainly reminds me of it.
Well, Mark, is Sharon correct?
Paddy

No, it is not an Amsonia (although it grows right next to one in my garden).  Good guess though.
I repeat my description because it is a clue, there's always a clue... now where have I heard that before?
"It's a great plant with milky white flowers and not the slightest bit weedy."
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on February 05, 2010, 05:12:23 PM
Well, it couldn't possibly be an Asclepias could it Mark?   ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on February 05, 2010, 06:20:14 PM
Well, it couldn't possibly be an Asclepias could it Mark?   ::)

No, but you're getting warmer  :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on February 05, 2010, 06:59:21 PM
So, it's not a Vincetoxicum (=weedy)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on February 05, 2010, 07:09:32 PM
So, it's not a Vincetoxicum (=weedy)

"It's a great plant with milky white flowers and not the slightest bit weedy."

It sometimes goes by that genus (as a synonym).  It is indeed a very weedy genus, some are noxious weeds, but this beauty makes no seed and is a well-behaved perennial.  So do you know the genus and species name?  (clue - can search SRGC forum for the answer).
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on February 05, 2010, 07:14:49 PM
Cynanchum ascyrifolium

I was searching for Cynanthum and, of course, it didn't come up
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on February 05, 2010, 07:27:02 PM
Cynanchum ascyrifolium

I was searching for Cynanthum and, of course, it didn't come up

Yes, it is Cynanchum ascyrifolium, well done Stephen.  Six years ago a friend visiting my garden brought this plant, had no idea about what it was.  It has since become one of my very favorite perennial plants, always neat and attractive, nothing bothers the trim foliage.  Starts flowering in May, continuous bloom through June and into July, then a second flush of flowering later in summer.  As others have reported (like forum member Kristl Walek), it sets no seed, so I never have any seedlings.  Must divide or propagate from cuttings this year.  Interesting too, is that the ends of the terminal shoots do tend to weakly twine.  Here are a few photos, with Amsonia rigida growing beside it.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on February 06, 2010, 07:14:44 PM
And there was I thinking it as Galaplantus nonweediformus ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on February 06, 2010, 11:03:59 PM
A masked puzzle revealing only part of the picture what is the whole?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on February 06, 2010, 11:20:59 PM
Part of a bird-feeder? 

Well - you have not posted any plant pics lately :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on February 06, 2010, 11:46:10 PM
Good try but .......you're still in the dark  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on February 07, 2010, 10:12:16 AM
A little more enlightenment perhaps  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on February 07, 2010, 06:58:26 PM
Feels like I am looking over the edge of a bridge ... and its a long way down to the ice and water.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on February 07, 2010, 07:08:48 PM
Getting warmer but.... not over a bridge....there is ice....it's above...you could suffer from vertigo here but.....not if you look ahead...more will be revealed :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on February 07, 2010, 07:12:07 PM
I am not sure if my feet are still on solid ground .... you're not just taking us for a ride are you ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on February 07, 2010, 07:14:37 PM
 ;D ;D ;D - not exactly  :-*
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on February 07, 2010, 07:29:57 PM
I was all set to post a reply, 3 newer messages came in, so I cancelled my previous, glad I did as I would've embarrassed myself :-[  Still stumped here.  Although I can say with honesty, I thought it had to do with some lunar theme.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on February 07, 2010, 07:37:17 PM
I was thinking a google map.... but the other clues rule that out...... ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lori S. on February 07, 2010, 07:38:30 PM
A railroad tunnel... ?  Avalanche shed over a highway?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on February 07, 2010, 07:41:32 PM
This is fiendish but while the ice may not be melting I think I begin to get the picture. 

And talking of pictures Markonions I just love the series of new avatars.  Having recently drawn a collective hiss of disapproval from an audience in a crocus talk when I made a snide comment about the green markings on snowdrops moving about at night and from year to year .... ;D ;D ;D  (The rest of the audience took a deep intake of breath while I checked for emergency exits backstage   ::))

Robin this path is getting rocky, I may be gone some time :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on February 07, 2010, 07:46:38 PM
Robin, I'm guessing there's a waterfall in there. Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on February 07, 2010, 07:52:10 PM
And talking of pictures Markonions I just love the series of new avatars.  Having recently drawn a collective hiss of disapproval from an audience in a crocus talk when I made a snide comment about the green markings on snowdrops moving about at night and from year to year .... ;D ;D ;D  (The rest of the audience took a deep intake of breath while I checked for emergency exits backstage   ::))

Thanks Tony, your message made me smile.  :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on February 07, 2010, 07:54:42 PM
A railroad tunnel... ?  Avalanche shed over a highway?

Mark, the full moon helps at night here  ;)

Maggi, no amount of oogling could zoom into a google map :P

Lori, you're close but...... not close enough :D

Tony, it's fiendish in the freeze  :o

Paddy, there's no waterfall in it  :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on February 07, 2010, 07:58:01 PM
Not so much taken for a ride as for a walk I suspect.  You've shown us some fabulous icicles early in January but this doesn't look like any of those pics ..... I suppose I'll have to get back on the trail and keep looking ???

Marko - Good, I like to do that :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on February 07, 2010, 08:25:43 PM
Even in daylight take a torch....on a walk....?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lori S. on February 07, 2010, 08:27:32 PM
Errr, well, a tunnel, cave or ice cave... ????
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on February 07, 2010, 08:38:37 PM
River in ravine?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on February 07, 2010, 09:11:02 PM
I have a strong suspicion that this is in connection with a glacier- a view in an ice cave with stairs (glacier cave)-  a cable car or alpine railway nearby  somewhere in the alps, probably not too far away from our Ragged Robin (Valais). Probably totally wrong, but lets's have a go anyway....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on February 07, 2010, 09:18:58 PM
Errr, well, a tunnel, cave or ice cave... ????

Lori, well guessed - it's a very small tunnel, one of two, only big enough for one car at a time and if you walk through it is quite eerie because the tunnels are so dark and water dripping produces long icicles in winter  ::)  I always think it would be a perfect setting for Hercules Poirot to discover something sinister with the icicle being the weapon that melts away  :o :o :o

the

Quote
River in ravine?

as Paddy suggests, is just close by over the vertical edge at the side of this dead  :o  end road!!!!!!

Thanks for unmasking the scene everyone!!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on February 07, 2010, 09:27:59 PM
Great puzzle, Robin! 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on February 07, 2010, 09:30:12 PM
I have a strong suspicion that this is in connection with a glacier- a view in an ice cave with stairs (glacier cave)-  a cable car or alpine railway nearby  somewhere in the alps, probably not too far away from our Ragged Robin (Valais). Probably totally wrong, but lets's have a go anyway....

All those close by Stephen   8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on February 07, 2010, 09:32:10 PM
Thanks Maggi, glad you enjoyed it  :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on February 07, 2010, 09:41:34 PM
Wicked puzzle Robin - Jacinta did think I was quite mad to be bothered with it when she saw the first mask!  We did end up on foot even if I couldn't see where we were going 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on February 07, 2010, 09:44:08 PM
Good one, Robin; a complete tease, almost impossible to figure it out.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lori S. on February 07, 2010, 09:51:12 PM
It seems there's a puzzle within a puzzle then... why blast through a mountain to make a dead-end road... ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on February 07, 2010, 09:52:17 PM
Can I start a new puzzle?

This is also a puzzle for me and I don't have the answer.

The Greatorex doubles were named, almost completely, after characters from the writings of William Shakespeare. However, there is one Greatorex double named, "White Swan", certainly not one of the well-known Shakespearean characters.

Can anybody shed any light on this name?

I know there is an hotel in Stratford-on-Avon called "The White Swan" and it occupies a building which was extant during Shakespeare's lifetime though, apparently, used as a bakery at that time.

Perhaps, students of literature might be able to shed light on this choice of name by Mr. Greatorex.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on February 07, 2010, 09:53:38 PM
Never saw through that one, Robin!  Probably tunnel vision!  Excellent puzzle.

So that you have a way back, Lori!!  ??? ::) ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: tonyg on February 07, 2010, 10:01:59 PM
It seems there's a puzzle within a puzzle then... why blast through a mountain to make a dead-end road... ???
I once found a dead end road near Benasqe in the Spanish Pyrenees.  The highway just stopped at the bottom of a mountain.  I later discovered that the plan was to bore a tunnel through to France, making it much quicker and easier to cross the border.  However one side withdrew their support ... I think it was the French, worried that the much lower prices in Spain at the time would see all the natives crossing the border undermining the local economy on the french side ...   
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on February 07, 2010, 10:54:46 PM
It seems there's a puzzle within a puzzle then... why blast through a mountain to make a dead-end road... ???
Lori, beyond the tunnels a deep valley with a river opens out and there is a very old village up there and Alpine meadows that used to be cut off completely in the winter, above that Lake Salanfe.......
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lori S. on February 07, 2010, 11:05:42 PM
So that you have a way back, Lori!!  ??? ::) ;D
If there's an Army Corp of Engineers over there, I might believe it...  ;D

Lori, beyond the tunnels a deep valley with a river opens out and there is a very old village up there and Alpine meadows that used to be cut off completely in the winter, above that Lake Salanfe.......
Ah, then it is only driveable to a certain point but continues as a trail...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on February 07, 2010, 11:25:47 PM
Can I start a new puzzle?

This is also a puzzle for me and I don't have the answer.

The Greatorex doubles were named, almost completely, after characters from the writings of William Shakespeare. However, there is one Greatorex double named, "White Swan", certainly not one of the well-known Shakespearean characters.

Can anybody shed any light on this name?

I know there is an hotel in Stratford-on-Avon called "The White Swan" and it occupies a building which was extant during Shakespeare's lifetime though, apparently, used as a bakery at that time.Paddy
Perhaps, students of literature might be able to shed light on this choice of name by Mr. Greatorex.

No idea really Paddy but have learnt a lot in my search for Greatorex doubles naming - here is a link to an article about Margery Fish in East Lambrook that could be the link with wings?

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/gardening/gardeningequipment/3346158/Snowdrops-White-magic.html

"Doubles are also delightful," she wrote, and 'Ophelia', from a group known as Greatorex doubles, is admired for its "engaging habit of lifting its outer petals… so that they look like wings." It's worth remembering that the extra petals on doubles keep the flowers open on dull days, whereas singles tend to remain tightly shu



Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on February 08, 2010, 10:19:10 AM
Can I start a new puzzle?

This is also a puzzle for me and I don't have the answer.

The Greatorex doubles were named, almost completely, after characters from the writings of William Shakespeare. However, there is one Greatorex double named, "White Swan", certainly not one of the well-known Shakespearean characters.

Can anybody shed any light on this name?

I know there is an hotel in Stratford-on-Avon called "The White Swan" and it occupies a building which was extant during Shakespeare's lifetime though, apparently, used as a bakery at that time.

Perhaps, students of literature might be able to shed light on this choice of name by Mr. Greatorex.

Paddy

I may well see Richard Hobbs tomorrow evening at a meeting and I will ask him for you Paddy.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on February 08, 2010, 11:30:11 AM
Can I start a new puzzle?

This is also a puzzle for me and I don't have the answer.

The Greatorex doubles were named, almost completely, after characters from the writings of William Shakespeare. However, there is one Greatorex double named, "White Swan", certainly not one of the well-known Shakespearean characters.

Can anybody shed any light on this name?

I know there is an hotel in Stratford-on-Avon called "The White Swan" and it occupies a building which was extant during Shakespeare's lifetime though, apparently, used as a bakery at that time.

Perhaps, students of literature might be able to shed light on this choice of name by Mr. Greatorex.

Paddy

I may well see Richard Hobbs tomorrow evening at a meeting and I will ask him for you Paddy.

It would be interesting to find out why the name was applied both from the, apparent, move from Shakespearean characters and the fact that it is anything but very white. It has strong green markings on the inner segments. Just one of those puzzles.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on February 10, 2010, 04:37:45 PM
The Greatorex doubles were named, almost completely, after characters from the writings of William Shakespeare. However, there is one Greatorex double named, "White Swan", certainly not one of the well-known Shakespearean characters.

Paddy

The answer is fairly simple Paddy, this has just arrived from Richard:
"White Swan was not named by Greatorex but by his wife 8 or 9 years after his
death.'

So it wasn't named by Heyrick Greatorex at all, hence the discrepancy.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on February 10, 2010, 05:52:39 PM
Well, that explains it.

Many thanks, Brian.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on February 18, 2010, 07:23:24 PM
Did no-one notice Tony's beautiful pun in Reply#47? well I didn't myself, at the time. :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on February 18, 2010, 07:33:27 PM
Did no-one notice Tony's beautiful pun in Reply#47? well I didn't myself, at the time. :D
I thought, "reply 47... in a thread this long.??...a mistake, or else Lesley's been catching up again! "

It's  true.... reply 47 page 3 ;http://www.srgc.org.uk/smf/index.php?topic=3289.msg84231#msg84231            .....very nice pun....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on February 18, 2010, 08:17:16 PM
I was looking for Robin's pics of Jazzy linked from where? Wildlife 2010? (As you see my short term memory is fast failing, a sure first sign of A's D I'm told.) Thought I'd missed them but remembered when I saw them again. Also enjoyed the half and half goat again. :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on March 21, 2010, 02:23:08 PM
It seems this Topic has been inactive for far too long.  This shot just arrived from Philip MacDougall, who by the way is long overdue to do some postings.

Anyone care to identify this plant with a priceless name.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ruweiss on March 21, 2010, 09:17:20 PM
Maybe Sempervivum Oddity?

Rudi
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on March 21, 2010, 09:44:33 PM
Certainly not a money plant, nor is it a mint.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on March 23, 2010, 11:25:51 PM
Maybe Sempervivum Oddity?

Rudi

Okay Rudi, you were close.

Sempervivum 'Troll Toes'.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on March 23, 2010, 11:46:35 PM

Okay Rudi, you were close.

Sempervivum 'Troll Toes'.

johnw

I'm a semp fan, but I've not heard of this aptly named oddity.  What can you tell us about it?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on March 24, 2010, 12:15:07 AM
Sempervivum 'Troll Toes'.

I'm a semp fan, but I've not heard of this aptly named oddity.  What can you tell us about it?

Mark - Unfortunately I can't tell you a thing. The photo came from Philip MacDougall. No doubt he picked it up in Oregon a couple of weeks ago and I'd bet it was at Cistus.

I was sure it was a Faucaria until I spied that Sempervivum leaf to the left.

I'll quiz Philip on it.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on March 24, 2010, 09:47:33 AM
Quote
The photo came from Philip MacDougall.

Puzzles by proxy ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on April 07, 2010, 06:41:21 PM
Time for a puzzle.......
Ivy with a problem?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Roma on April 07, 2010, 08:26:17 PM
Eaten by roe deer?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on April 07, 2010, 08:30:14 PM
No, it's too bizarre to guess, really.
The sheep climb on to the walls, then walk along the top grazing the ivy.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 08, 2010, 08:52:16 AM
How amazing!  I always thought ivy was poisonous  :o 

 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on April 08, 2010, 09:20:36 PM
I thought so too. Perhaps it's only poison ivy, which I believe is a Rhus species?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on April 09, 2010, 12:06:24 AM
I thought so too. Perhaps it's only poison ivy, which I believe is a Rhus species?

Poison Ivy is Toxicodendron radicans (older synonyms Rhus toxicodendron, Rhus radicans).  Doing garden cleanup, there are always a billion chokecherry tree seedlings (Prunus virginiana >:() that germinate under large trees, presumably from bird droppings when resting in the large overstory trees.  Well, the same is true of poison ivy.  I have eradicated all of it in my property, but it remains a constant battle, with lots and lots of woody 1yr seedlings spread by bird droppings after they eat the white berries.  The trouble with yanking out the little stick-like seedlings (mostly the darned chokecherry), some are poison ivy seedlings, impossible to tell before anything leafs out, and I get poison ivy breakouts on my hands (don't like using groves), all parts of the plant, woody bark as well, have the volatile irritating oil, not just the leaves.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 20, 2010, 05:36:07 PM
On a walk, just after the rain, and looking up above just couldn't believe my eyes :o

A spider in the sky - I wonder why  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 20, 2010, 05:46:31 PM
Girocopter?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 20, 2010, 06:19:05 PM
Not sure they would allow girocopters in this part of Switzerland - helicopters yes.....but it's not that either   ;)

I thought you would have got this one straight away Anthony  :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 21, 2010, 10:32:57 PM
I have seen them using helicopters to dump fertilizer on conifer plantations in Glen Lochy.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 21, 2010, 11:14:59 PM
Amazing what helicopters can do......

This helicopter was transporting planks of wood to construct the next phase on a a stairway up a rock face, dangerous work balancing on the edge.  It has a clue attached to it and was used as a method to get from A to B which is relevant to the puzzle  :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 21, 2010, 11:39:54 PM
I'm afraid my climbing friends would be horrified. Almost as bad as to "bolted" climbing routes in the Costas in Spain, they would say. I'm sure this is for a reason Robin.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 22, 2010, 10:17:30 AM
The local Swiss are very safety conscious and are, in fact, wearing all the gear, they are used to working in small spaces on rock and this is a staircase that is being extended up the rock face to join a bridge at the top, which is a viewing spot for the waterfall below so people can climb from A to B....and this is what the spider in the puzzle is doing, but how?

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 22, 2010, 11:54:27 AM
Spiders can span gaps two ways: 1) the long way, down, across and up dragging a thread which is then pulled to create a thread spanning the gap or 2) pulling out a loose thread which catches the wind and is blown until it snags a twig on the other side of the gap and is then pulled taught.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 22, 2010, 02:35:39 PM
Anthony, thanks for your answers to the teasing puzzle; that is still puzzling in itself as you can see A where the spiders thread is attached to the lamp post but there is no apparent anchor where B could be  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 22, 2010, 03:03:59 PM
Robin, spiders do what is called 'ballooning' where they climb top the top of a stalk, lift their rear end up and release a silken thread. As this gets longer wind resistance increases until the spider lets go and flies away carried by the wind-blown thread. They can travel hundreds of miles in this way. http://www.awesomestories.com/flicks/charlottes-web/ballooning-spiders
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on April 22, 2010, 03:12:49 PM
Astonishing  :o   I had no idea spiders could do that, Anthony, so thanks for this interesting info I'm off back to the spot where I saw the spider to try to determine where B is but it will e difficult as the spider was so high up  ;D

By the way, what sort of spider is it?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 22, 2010, 03:16:16 PM
Difficult to tell without seeing the body colour. Meta segmentata would just be a guess, but it's the wrong shape.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fredg on April 23, 2010, 06:54:34 PM
I think this one is dead easy but I took the photo  ;D

Big clue..... it's a plant.
It's a bit early too I think.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on April 23, 2010, 07:40:41 PM
I think this one is dead easy but I took the photo  ;D

Big clue..... it's a plant.
It's a bit early too I think.
Ah.... it's a plant, eh? Well, that rules out the slightly burned pitta bread answer then. :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fredg on April 23, 2010, 08:08:03 PM
That would have been a rum answer Maggi  ;) ;) ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on April 28, 2010, 08:18:14 PM
That would have been a rum answer Maggi  ;) ;) ;)


 Crikey, I'm losing my touch.... see the answer here:
http://www.srgc.org.uk/smf/index.php?topic=950.msg150002#msg150002
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on April 29, 2010, 11:57:27 AM
Here's a little puzzle which should be very easy. What is...?
[attachthumb=1]
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on April 29, 2010, 01:54:28 PM
Butterfly - viewed from above?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: gote on April 29, 2010, 02:53:31 PM
seed
Göte
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on April 29, 2010, 04:03:20 PM
an esoterically modern clock?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gail on April 29, 2010, 07:26:04 PM
You've given a slug a saucer of milk??
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ruweiss on April 29, 2010, 09:32:05 PM
Seed pod of a Cypripedium?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on April 29, 2010, 10:01:51 PM
I didn't think it would be too difficult. Gote is closest. It is a seed pod of Gentiana depressa, somewhat waterlogged after a day of rain and the only one on any of my 3 plants. Unfortunately, when I dried and crumbled it, there was no seed, so those two Forumists to whom I've promised some seed, will have to wait another year. I haven't forgotten though, Hans and Ian. :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fredg on May 01, 2010, 03:15:23 PM
An easy one if you're up to date on the forum  ;D

A pollinator's eye view ( if we ever find out what the pollinator is  ::))
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 02, 2010, 12:38:47 AM
An Aristolochia?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 02, 2010, 12:47:35 AM
I was going to say Saracenia. :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 02, 2010, 12:48:55 AM
Aha! Darlingtonia californica!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fredg on May 02, 2010, 05:17:12 PM
Well spotted Anthony  ;D ;D

There's a bit more of the flower.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 12, 2010, 07:03:46 PM
Here is a new puzzle ....

Knows anybody the name of this (bulb)plant ?

I'm really interestet to hear answers  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 12, 2010, 11:06:24 PM
I haven't a clue but perhaps something close to Hypoxis? Looks like a pink version of NZ native Herpolirion, which isn't a bulb of course.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 12, 2010, 11:29:53 PM
Beautiful, crystalline flowers.... unusual colouring..... is it  a South American, Hans?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carlo on May 13, 2010, 12:04:19 AM
At first blush, it reminds me of Polygonatum hookeri...but a lovely and variant form.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 13, 2010, 07:15:21 AM
Lesley : no - Hypoxis
Maggi : yes -  South American
Carlo : no - Polygonatum

 :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Alberto on May 13, 2010, 07:26:27 AM
May you show the side of the flower to see the position of the ovary?
Alberto
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Alberto on May 13, 2010, 07:28:27 AM
It could be Nothoscordum or Ipheion...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 13, 2010, 07:53:47 AM
Alberto : please wait ....we have a lot of rain today ....I will take a pic later
 ;) no Nothoscordum + Ipheion
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on May 13, 2010, 09:41:03 AM
Perhaps Tecophilaea cyanocrocus var. violaea ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 13, 2010, 09:43:04 AM
Sorry Brian ....no Tecophilea !
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gail on May 13, 2010, 10:09:41 AM
Six anthers and those crystalline looking petals makes me think Amaryllidaceae and the regular, upright flowers Zephyranthes, but not one I've seen before...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 13, 2010, 10:24:46 AM
Zephyranthes labufarosea?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 13, 2010, 10:25:39 AM
I think you are on the right track, Gail.... the flowersmust be quite young because the anthers are still undeveloped..... my first thought was that the flowers were quite small.... but I'm thinking now that that tricky Hans may be being clever with the angle of the photo, making them appear shorter and smaller than they really are.....  ::)

Just seen your post, Anthony....  that was crossing my mind....... :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 13, 2010, 10:29:14 AM
Gail .....you comes nearer :
Amaryllidaceae is right  :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 13, 2010, 10:35:54 AM
Anthony :

here are pics of Zeph. 'La Buffa Rosa'

 :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 13, 2010, 10:43:40 AM
Absolutely gorgeous Hans. 8) You certainly have a knack with these warm climate bulbs. What are the parents?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gail on May 13, 2010, 10:50:30 AM
Gail .....you comes nearer :
Amaryllidaceae is right  :D

So would it be the Haylockia andina (identified by Kew as Zephyranthes andina) featured on the Pacific Bulb Society page and photographed by a certain Hans Joschko?  http://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/Haylockia
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 13, 2010, 11:04:00 AM
 :o Gail !!!

you are the winner !!!

here are some earlier pics of my Haylockias :
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 13, 2010, 11:08:34 AM
Anthony :

here it is was written on PBS about Z.Labuffarosea :
http://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/ZephyranthesHybridsTwo#Labuffarosea
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 13, 2010, 11:12:27 AM
Hurrah!  Congratulations, Gail... that was a  tricky one!
So I was wrong with the scale, then... this has only got a short stem. Nice plant .... the deeper pink tone is very pretty .
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 13, 2010, 11:34:20 AM
Maggi : you should not think from you (tricky ) too other  :P

I was really surprised yesterday when I saw the color of the flower from this year ....thats a really deep pink ( may be a result of Phostrogen ? )
 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Alberto on May 13, 2010, 01:05:50 PM
Haylockia?
Alberto
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gail on May 13, 2010, 01:58:44 PM
:o Gail !!!

you are the winner !!!
;D

Alberto - the genus Haylockia has been around for a while - there are plants illustrated under that name in Jane Loudon's “The Ladies' Flower Garden of Ornamental Bulbous Plants” of 1849 (http://www.rare-maps.com/details.cfm?type=prints&auto_key=251632).  However most species seem to have been moved to other genera now eg. Haylockia chihuanhuaya to Clinanthus and Hans' Haylockia andina is considered synonymous with Zephyranthes andina
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carlo on May 13, 2010, 02:00:46 PM
Beautiful Hans--every one! (but I like the original puzzle species the best).
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 13, 2010, 02:23:07 PM
Gail ,

I know under Kew is listet Haylockia in Zephyranthes ....but here :
http://www.amaryllidaceae.org/Habranthus/index.htm
is it under Habranthus ....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gail on May 13, 2010, 05:38:46 PM
Gail ,

I know under Kew is listet Haylockia in Zephyranthes ....but here :
http://www.amaryllidaceae.org/Habranthus/index.htm
is it under Habranthus ....

You were obviously right to put this one under puzzles....  I do find the whole group fairly puzzling; they say that Habranthus is distinguished from Zephyranthes in having flowers held at an angle and less symmetrical flowers but to me many Habranthus look perfectly symmetrical.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 19, 2010, 11:46:24 AM
Hi all

here is a new puzzle  ;D

this pic I found in a newspaper :o

who knows it  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 19, 2010, 11:47:58 AM
 ::) ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on May 19, 2010, 12:03:32 PM
Hans,
Are these people laying out a large picture? Perhaps, an advertisement?  I imagine I can see a face appearing in the back background in the centre of your  photograph.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 19, 2010, 12:07:43 PM
What a great photo! Almost abstract until one spots the people.

I have an idea.... I'll keep it to myself so others will join in..... :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gail on May 19, 2010, 12:24:40 PM
I would guess agricultural - black plastic mulches being laid out.  The guy in the green jacket on the left looks as though he is face down, overcome with exhaustion!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 19, 2010, 12:26:06 PM
 :-X :-X :-X

Hans
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 19, 2010, 12:35:35 PM
Looks like cardboard packing material with the people added.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on May 19, 2010, 02:31:21 PM
Perhaps some repairs being carried out?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on May 19, 2010, 02:35:07 PM
People cropping Asparagus, maybe?
(How long  is it till dinner time?  Ahhhh...my kingdom for fresh "Spargel" !!!!:P)
Zephirine
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Casalima on May 19, 2010, 02:40:45 PM
Asparagus cutting was the first thing that came to mind too! Just cooked some :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 19, 2010, 03:09:12 PM
The background looks almost like a tile with the black strips peeling off in some places. I suspect the people are out of scale.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 19, 2010, 04:08:07 PM
 :D OK OK OK  :D

yes - this are fields with Asparagus ( in my area are a lot of them )
the walls with the plants are covered with black foil ...and now comes every day busses full with workers to cut

 8) Hans
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on May 19, 2010, 06:19:46 PM
Fantastic puzzle Hans - are they the white asparagus?  I have often wondered how they are grown  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 19, 2010, 06:43:24 PM
Robin - yes thats the white one  :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on May 19, 2010, 08:05:21 PM
  ;) You made me hungry, Hans!
And just to pay you back...what are those lovely fancy little marzipans? Don't you feel like grasping one of them and tasting it, softly melting in your mouth? :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on May 19, 2010, 08:22:32 PM
 ::) Zephirine :

sorry no idea ...please give us a little help  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: arisaema on May 19, 2010, 08:50:53 PM
Deinanthe?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on May 19, 2010, 09:04:03 PM
Perfectly right, Arisaema! Deinanthe Caerulea it is! Congratulations! ;)
Here is the full picture:
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 19, 2010, 09:19:28 PM
Well done indeed! That was very clever.... both the puzzle and the answer  ;D
Fascinating how taking something out of context can make it quite unrecognisable  :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on May 19, 2010, 11:33:33 PM
What is this thing?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on May 19, 2010, 11:39:51 PM
Don't know if it's called in English like this: Elfenbank, but grows on dead trees.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on May 20, 2010, 12:06:36 AM
Don't know if it's called in English like this: Elfenbank, but grows on dead trees.

Elfenbank?  Sounds like a place where one goes to obtain a small loan. ;D  Yes, this was growing on a dying portion of a sugar maple.  Realizing how massive and heavy it was after it fell, I now try and limit the amount of time I stand close to the main tree trunk, as there are several more high up on the tree.  Does anyone know what type this is?  It serves as an interesting garden artifact, with Corydalis lutea rooting into it.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on May 20, 2010, 08:28:27 AM
Bracket fungus, I think, Mark.


Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fredg on May 24, 2010, 05:58:52 PM
No one commented when I posted this so I thought it'd do as a little puzzle.

There are two insectivores in the photo, one is the plant.

(It's not that difficult) ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lori S. on May 24, 2010, 06:18:02 PM
And the other would seem to be the crab(?) spider, under the left-most petal...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fredg on May 24, 2010, 06:44:52 PM
That's the one  ;D

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on May 24, 2010, 08:58:18 PM
One for the "Muso's"  ;D

I don't want to go to Chelsea even though it's a good year for the roses. Some of them are beyond belief, almost like indoor fireworks. Security has to be good though so watch your step because accidents will happen. Still, if like me, you can't stand up for falling down, you can always rely on watching the dectives or even oliver's army with alison would be a brilliant mistake. But what's so funny about peace, love and understanding.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 24, 2010, 09:20:27 PM
One for the "Muso's"  ;D


Brilliant, David..... I love it!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ruweiss on May 24, 2010, 09:50:13 PM
Rather easy, what is this?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carlo on May 24, 2010, 10:04:32 PM
Prunus serrula (NOT serrulata)--and I would give my left eye tooth to have one here!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ruweiss on May 24, 2010, 10:41:15 PM
Carlo,
what a quick action. You are right, I photographed the stem yesterday against the evening sun.
It was always a dream for me to own such a beauty which I always admired in the botanical
gardens. At the Alpines 1991 conference we visited the beautiful Cluny House garden in Scotland
and I took the chance to obtain some seeds of this Prunus, because it was impossible to get a
mature plant in our coutry. Here is the result from the other side:
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 24, 2010, 10:56:11 PM
One for the "Muso's"  ;D

I don't want to go to Chelsea even though it's a good year for the roses. Some of them are beyond belief, almost like indoor fireworks. Security has to be good though so watch your step because accidents will happen. Still, if like me, you can't stand up for falling down, you can always rely on watching the dectives or even oliver's army with alison would be a brilliant mistake. But what's so funny about peace, love and understanding.
Is nobody taking you up on this one, David........  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 24, 2010, 11:17:11 PM
That's the one  ;D


Actually it's not a crab spider.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 24, 2010, 11:19:20 PM
What's a muso?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on May 24, 2010, 11:26:27 PM
Anthony I am glad you asked.
Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 24, 2010, 11:39:34 PM
I was thinking some kind of banana, but that's musa. ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 24, 2010, 11:59:47 PM
The word "muso" is used here for persons of a musical/music loving persuasion, but of a type that is certainly neither classical nor pop, maybe sort of folksy, better bands, the kind that in Dunedin at least are likely to play in the early hours of the morning in dark and grotty pubs and clubs. Locally written music mostly, of which there is much in Dunedin and NZ generally. Think of a sort of musical version of "Flight of the Conchords."

So David's puzzle leaves me totally bewildered, not that that's so infrequent nowadays. ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carlo on May 25, 2010, 12:03:01 AM
Rudi,

How fantastic that you grew Prunus serrula from seed! What did you do to germinate it, and how old is the plant in your photo?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on May 25, 2010, 09:04:19 AM
Cliff Booker will know!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on May 25, 2010, 09:08:59 AM
At what Costello though David?   ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on May 25, 2010, 09:13:47 AM
At what Costello though David?   ;D

Hi Cliff,

I thought you were off the planet; gone on holidays somewhere exotic; hadn't heard you for ages.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on May 25, 2010, 09:32:23 AM
Good morrow Paddy et al,
Just returned from a wonderful lecture tour of eastern North America sponsored by NARGS.  We visited New York State, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Newfoundland, Wisconsin-Illinois, Washington D.C., North Carolina and a final week back in the Hudson Valley of N.Y. State.
We experienced North American hospitality at it's very best and saw gardens, scenery and sites of utmost beauty.  Eight lectures/presentations and twelve flights in the three week period could have left us exhausted but, in fact, we came home elated and rejuvenated by a magnificent tour.  1500 images to trawl through when the jet-lag has worn off.

http://nargs.org/smf/index.php?topic=271.msg2366#new
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: vivienr on May 25, 2010, 09:47:48 AM
One for the "Muso's"  ;D

I don't want to go to Chelsea even though it's a good year for the roses. Some of them are beyond belief, almost like indoor fireworks. Security has to be good though so watch your step because accidents will happen. Still, if like me, you can't stand up for falling down, you can always rely on watching the dectives or even oliver's army with alison would be a brilliant mistake. But what's so funny about peace, love and understanding.

Was going to have a guess but not sure that my aim is true. Sounds mighty like a rose - almost blue, perhaps?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 25, 2010, 10:01:34 AM
The word "muso" is used here for persons of a musical/music loving persuasion, but of a type that is certainly neither classical nor pop, maybe sort of folksy, better bands, the kind that in Dunedin at least are likely to play in the early hours of the morning in dark and grotty pubs and clubs. Locally written music mostly, of which there is much in Dunedin and NZ generally. Think of a sort of musical version of "Flight of the Conchords."

So David's puzzle leaves me totally bewildered, not that that's so infrequent nowadays. ???

Not an English word then?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Casalima on May 25, 2010, 10:08:28 AM
One for the "Muso's"  ;D

I don't want to go to Chelsea even though it's a good year for the roses. Some of them are beyond belief, almost like indoor fireworks. Security has to be good though so watch your step because accidents will happen. Still, if like me, you can't stand up for falling down, you can always rely on watching the dectives or even oliver's army with alison would be a brilliant mistake. But what's so funny about peace, love and understanding.
Is nobody taking you up on this one, David........  ::)

Uff, I've just got it, David  :D Good one!
Does that make me old enough, young enough ...?  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 25, 2010, 10:34:21 AM
"muso" is an affectionate (?) term for a musician ....... can't believe it's unfamiliar to the English native- speakers   ::) ??? :-X
Though, of course, I have spent a lot of time around musos!

Chloe, you are ageless, of course.... it is simply the breadth of your knowledge that gives you the answer..... Bookeroo just knows cos he's a geek!! :D ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on May 25, 2010, 01:41:48 PM
"muso" is an affectionate (?) term for a musician ....... can't believe it's unfamiliar to the English native- speakers   ::) ??? :-X
Though, of course, I have spent a lot of time around musos!


Never heard the expression... I was thinking along similar lines as Anthony, that a fan of Musa (bananas) might be called a Muso, and since all runners pay homage to the most sacred of running foods with complex carbohydrates, the banana, I believe us runners might be Musos as well, particularly when wearing our iPods.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ruweiss on May 25, 2010, 09:39:17 PM
Rudi,

How fantastic that you grew Prunus serrula from seed! What did you do to germinate it, and how old is the plant in your photo?

Carlo,
I sowed the seeds immediately after delivery in 1991, kept the pot together with other alpine seeds uncovered
in the garden and brought it under glass after germination. Cannot remember how long it lasted, but there appeared
several seedlings from which I kept the most promising one.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 26, 2010, 03:53:08 AM
The word "muso" is used here for persons of a musical/music loving persuasion, but of a type that is certainly neither classical nor pop, maybe sort of folksy, better bands, the kind that in Dunedin at least are likely to play in the early hours of the morning in dark and grotty pubs and clubs. Locally written music mostly, of which there is much in Dunedin and NZ generally. Think of a sort of musical version of "Flight of the Conchords."

So David's puzzle leaves me totally bewildered, not that that's so infrequent nowadays. ???

Not an English word then?

Well just a sort of lazy or slang word for musician I think.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carlo on May 26, 2010, 01:11:15 PM
Thanks Rudi, I will HAVE to find a way to include it in my garden...it's one of my favorite trees.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on May 26, 2010, 09:57:22 PM
Glad to see there are some "Muso's" around the Forum ;D

Well done Chloe, and very well done Vivien, "Almost Blue" would be in my all time top 100 albums list. I knew The Bookeroo would get it and I also knew maggi would latch on very quickly.

My little "pastiche" was based on album tracks made by Elvis Costello (and if you haven't listened to him you should be ashamed :P  )
The tracks were:_

I don't want to go to Chelsea
Good year for the roses
Beyond Belief
Indoor Fireworks
Watch your step
Accidents will happen
I can't stand up for falling down
Watching the detectives
Oliver's Army
Alison
Brilliant Mistake
What's so funny 'bout peace love and understanding

Every one worth a listen. 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 27, 2010, 11:28:46 AM

This two-letter word in English has more meanings than any other two-letter word, and that word is 'UP'

 

It's easy to understand 'UP', meaning toward the sky, or at the top of the list;

but when we awaken in  the morning,why do we wake UP?


At a meeting, why does a topic come UP? 

Why do we speak UP? 

And why are councelors UP for election?

Why is it UP to the secretary to write UP a report?   

We call UP our friends;

brighten UP a room;

polish UP the silver;

warm UP the leftovers

and clean UP the kitchen.   

We lock UP the house;

and  fix UP the old car.


At other times this little word has real special meaning.

People stir UP trouble;
line UP for tickets;

work UP an appetite

and think UP excuses.

To be dressed is one thing - but to be dressed UP is special.
And this UP is confusing: 

A drain must be opened UP because it is blocked UP.

We open UP a store in the morning, but we also close it UP at night.

We seem to be pretty mixed UP about UP!

To be knowledgeable about the proper uses of UP, look UP the word UP in the dictionary.

In a desk-sized dictionary, it takes UP almost 1/4 of the page and can add UP to about thirty definitions.

If you are UP to it, you might try building UP a list of the many ways UP is used. It will take UP a lot of your time, but if you don't give UP, you may wind UP with a hundred or more.

When it threatens to rain, we say it is clouding UP. (Actually we don't, we say clouding OVER.) 

When the sun comes out we say it is clearing UP.

When it rains it the earth soaks it UP.

When it does not rain for a while, things dry UP.

One could go on and on, but I'll wrap it UP, for now....

My time is UP!   Oh....one more thing:

What is the first thing you do in the morning, Wake UP!  Get UP!

and the last thing you do at night? Hang UP your clothes; Pull UP the duvet.

 
Now
I'll shut UP!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on June 09, 2010, 09:48:09 PM
Here's something a little different. Name the people and the time and place, or perhaps the event, rather than the place. Should be easy for those of a certain age.

[attachthumb=1]
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on June 09, 2010, 10:13:26 PM
Such fun!

An aciphylla and a juniper, together........ :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on June 09, 2010, 10:16:06 PM
Maggi,

Surely you do not imply that our dear and darling Lesley is of prickly temperament nor her companion a sop?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on June 09, 2010, 10:30:49 PM
'tis all to do with the taxonomy.......... ::)

We can at least be sure that the lady is Lesley  :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on June 09, 2010, 10:51:04 PM
That's surely Gerd Knoche there with Lesley??
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on June 09, 2010, 11:05:15 PM
Better put things right, right away. The gentleman (I must have been thinner then) is Howard Pfeiffer (ie?) from the US of A, a charming man with some outrageously funny stories to tell. Wish I could remember them all. The event was "Alpines '81" also at Nottingham, so 29 years ago.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on June 09, 2010, 11:26:15 PM
Was the Green Panther ever caught?

Is his identity known?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on June 10, 2010, 12:53:33 AM
Mmmmmm?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on June 10, 2010, 01:07:10 AM
Better put things right, right away. The gentleman (I must have been thinner then) is Howard Pfeiffer (ie?) from the US of A, a charming man with some outrageously funny stories to tell. Wish I could remember them all. The event was "Alpines '81" also at Nottingham, so 29 years ago.

Ah yes April 1981, the month of the worst late frost here.  I thought that was Howard but hmm too obvious and how was aciph Lesley to fit in to the equation. What ever became of him, I haven't seen him in years?   He used to lead groups to Newfoundland every summer.

johnw  (dated now)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on June 10, 2010, 06:25:15 AM
I've wondered too, what happened to him or what he's now doing. Pat Seymour from Canada was another who's vanished so far as I know. Maybe Carlo B would know something of Howard. And there was Tom Stuart from NY. Where is he?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on June 10, 2010, 06:34:18 AM
Sadly, dear Howard passed away a number of years ago ... he was the subject of many a conversation during our recent NARGS tour.  Anne Spiegel was especially fond of this lovely gentle humorous man.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on June 10, 2010, 06:39:25 AM
The image must have been taken at a major conference Lesley?   You haven't changed one jot ... though Howard looks exactly as he did when I saw him lecture in the U.K.  ;)

Apologies to all ... I have only just espied your answer above, Lesley.  ::) ::) ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on June 10, 2010, 10:26:14 AM
Drat! I got that wrong....... I thought the gentleman ( never having met him!) was Jim le Compte, hence the aciphylla "clue" ..... the juniper was J. recurva coxii !!

So much for my joke.... failed again!  :P

Must say that Mr Pfeiffer has the look of the very best sort of cheery person, bless him.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on June 10, 2010, 11:43:00 AM
I've wondered too, what happened to him or what he's now doing. Pat Seymour from Canada was another who's vanished so far as I know. Maybe Carlo B would know something of Howard. And there was Tom Stuart from NY. Where is he?

Lesley

Patrick was a good friend.  Sadly he passed away last year after a couple of difficult years with his health.  He grew remarkable plants at the Devonian Gardens in Edmonton and had a great sense of humour.  Primulas were a special passion.

Sorry to hear about Howard.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on June 10, 2010, 12:52:19 PM
Drat! I got that wrong....... I thought the gentleman ( never having met him!) was Jim le Compte, hence the aciphylla "clue" ..... the juniper was J. recurva coxii !!


Some other coxii plants:
http://www.ipni.org/ipni/advPlantNameSearch.do;jsessionid=903469A993F795753BEE180BE5BA61BB?find_family=&find_genus=*&find_species=coxii&find_infrafamily=&find_infragenus=&find_infraspecies=&find_authorAbbrev=&find_includePublicationAuthors=on&find_includePublicationAuthors=off&find_includeBasionymAuthors=on&find_includeBasionymAuthors=off&find_publicationTitle=&find_isAPNIRecord=on&find_isAPNIRecord=false&find_isGCIRecord=on&find_isGCIRecord=false&find_isIKRecord=on&find_isIKRecord=false&find_rankToReturn=all&output_format=normal&find_sortByFamily=on&find_sortByFamily=off&query_type=by_query&back_page=plantsearch (http://www.ipni.org/ipni/advPlantNameSearch.do;jsessionid=903469A993F795753BEE180BE5BA61BB?find_family=&find_genus=*&find_species=coxii&find_infrafamily=&find_infragenus=&find_infraspecies=&find_authorAbbrev=&find_includePublicationAuthors=on&find_includePublicationAuthors=off&find_includeBasionymAuthors=on&find_includeBasionymAuthors=off&find_publicationTitle=&find_isAPNIRecord=on&find_isAPNIRecord=false&find_isGCIRecord=on&find_isGCIRecord=false&find_isIKRecord=on&find_isIKRecord=false&find_rankToReturn=all&output_format=normal&find_sortByFamily=on&find_sortByFamily=off&query_type=by_query&back_page=plantsearch)

Not sure if Acaena  coxii Phil. is still a valid name as it was described in the mid 1800s.  So my vote for best plant to represent Lesley is Calochortus  coxii, a true beauty ;D
http://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/CalochortusSpeciesTwo  (scroll down to find C. coxii photos)
http://www.centerforplantconservation.org/Collection/CPC_ViewProfile.asp?CPCNum=9791

I too always enjoyed Howard Pfeiffer's witty presentations, although these were not without controversy as he liked to sprinkle them with racy innuendo intended to shock the faint of heart.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on June 10, 2010, 08:53:07 PM
Thanks Cliff, for the note about Howard, though I'm sorry to hear it. Likewise John, the news of Pat S who actually offered to pinch a little bit of a plant for me, from the St Andrews Botanic Gardens. But as I was to stand watch, I got cold feet and chickened out. Just as well probably.

Maggi, the photo (a slide) was TAKEN by Jim LeComte. I had no knowledge of it - well must have at the time, but have no recollection now). The slide was given to me by Jean, Jim's widow when we were both at the 40th anniv celebration of the Ashburton Alpine Garden Society last week, Jim and I having started that society back in 1970. He too is long gone now but would have been pleased to know it was still going very strong indeed. Jim was a speaker at "Alpines '81" and it has to be said he was an excellent photographer.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on June 10, 2010, 09:07:02 PM
Thanks for the links Mark. I'd be very happy to adopt Calochortus coxii as my own. :D. It seems to be quite rare so is not likely to come my way at any time and isn't on our Bio list anyway. I've always quite liked the idea of being associated with the coffin juniper. You'd be surprised how many people over the years have asked me if I were related to Euan/Peter/Kenneth as if Cox were an uncommon name. I'm not, but in any case it would have been my husband not I who was related if there was such a relationship. He died in 1983. (Sorry, I didn't intend this to be a potted biography!)

Jim was very interested in Aciphylla and did have one named for him though whether the plant still has specific rank I'm not sure. He was very much the front of the Alouette Nursery which introduced so many fine things to local rock gardeners, especially Ericaceae such as Cassiopes, Phyllodaces, dwarf rhodos and many others. Locals however, had a pretty fair idea that it was Jean who did the propagating and had the real knowledge. She is the quietest and most retiring person imaginable and we felt it a shame she was never allowed to shine properly. Last week it was a great pleasure to meet her again after many years. She lives in Christchurch now.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on July 05, 2010, 10:40:44 PM
It's been a while ... an easy puzzle today.  Three images to identify ...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on July 05, 2010, 10:45:57 PM
C looks like a swan's beak.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on July 05, 2010, 10:49:29 PM
Middle one looks like a crested duck? Top one reminds me of the Nene? Don't Mallard ducks have green beaks?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 05, 2010, 11:00:16 PM
I see where you get the Hawaian Goose idea, Anthony..... so if all three are water fowl, then my idea for the middle one being one of those fancy chickens Gail keeps is way out.....

I was going with Giles on the swan, but some mallards are quite green about the beak.....hmm.... dunno!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on July 05, 2010, 11:13:55 PM
I don't remember swans having green beaks?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 05, 2010, 11:25:28 PM
Some swans have that sort of yellow-green, don't they?  :-\

Have we been conned by the fact the feathers are white?! ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on July 05, 2010, 11:45:20 PM
Maybe it has delusions of gander?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on July 06, 2010, 06:06:53 AM
Maybe it has delusions of gander?

Trust you to penn that one, Anthony!   :D

You are all getting mighty close folks!  Oh, darn it ... you are so close that I may as well post the answers.
All images captured at Martin Mere RSPB Reserve on Saturday.
The green beaked goose is a native of Australia.

Much harder to follow ...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gail on July 06, 2010, 10:00:02 AM
I see where you get the Hawaian Goose idea, Anthony..... so if all three are water fowl, then my idea for the middle one being one of those fancy chickens Gail keeps is way out.....
I did used to have fancy ducks too - I had a pair of Bali ducks (called Dilly and Dally) which are the crested version of an Indian runner duck, sadly the female got run over and the male succumbed to a respiratory infection.  This is Dally.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on July 06, 2010, 07:28:48 PM
Wasn't a good runner then Gail :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gail on July 06, 2010, 09:50:33 PM
Wasn't a good runner then Gail :P
There is no escape from lunatic drivers sadly!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on July 06, 2010, 10:33:57 PM
Cereopsis goose
http://www.feathersite.com/Poultry/NDG/Geese/Cereop/BRKCereop.html (http://www.feathersite.com/Poultry/NDG/Geese/Cereop/BRKCereop.html)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on July 06, 2010, 11:04:49 PM
Two out of three ain't bad? ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on July 14, 2010, 09:17:46 PM
last week I visit a Arboretum in my area and I found some interesting trees and shrubs ...I take some pics and now are here some puzzles :

Have fun  8)
Hans
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on July 14, 2010, 09:26:46 PM
a couple guesses

1.  Staphylea (bladdernut)
2.  Euonymus, many have look-alike fruits, I grow E. sachaliensis, which is fabulous when the "fruits" turn red and open to show orange seeds.
3.  don't know, but would not want to try climbing that tree :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on July 14, 2010, 11:54:54 PM
Is the third one Gleditzia triacanthos?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on July 15, 2010, 07:27:05 AM
WOW  :o

We have really good members here !

1. Staphylea pinnata
2. Euonymus latifolius
3. Gleditzia macracantha
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Mick McLoughlin on July 20, 2010, 06:00:09 PM
Picture taken this morning
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on July 20, 2010, 07:00:31 PM
Is it a laeliocattleya bud in the pouch? (if its called a pouch) or other similar orchid buds.

Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on July 20, 2010, 07:01:23 PM
Looks like the edge of Kermit's ear ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on July 20, 2010, 07:28:07 PM
Commelina bud ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Mick McLoughlin on July 20, 2010, 07:33:19 PM
Very quick Gunilla
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Mick McLoughlin on July 20, 2010, 07:35:42 PM
A picture taken tonight flower just showing Commelina dianthifolia grown from seed exchange.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on July 20, 2010, 07:41:42 PM
knows maybe anybody which tree this is  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: olegKon on July 20, 2010, 07:43:08 PM
Picea breveriana?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on July 20, 2010, 07:48:55 PM
Picea breveriana?

Sorry no
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: arisaema on July 20, 2010, 08:09:45 PM
Picea abies f. virgata?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on July 20, 2010, 08:12:42 PM
Picea abies f. virgata?

Arisamea

you are 100 % right !!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on July 20, 2010, 09:45:46 PM
Picea abies f. virgata?

I thought 'Virgata' but then decided it was far to "bushy".  Must be a very old tree.  Here's a bad shot of a slide of Virgata at Van Dusen in Vancouver.  Surely the most gaunt (or is it gauntest?) tree I've ever seen aside from a dead one. Note no laterals.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 20, 2010, 10:13:54 PM
A picture taken tonight flower just showing Commelina dianthifolia grown from seed exchange.

 Really clever puzzle that, Mick!
I thought Graham's guess was a good idea, it made me think that it was a possibility to be something like that.... well done Gunilla for getting right to the answer!
I expect there will be lots of us taking a REALLY close look at our commelina buds now, eh? !!  :) 8) 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 20, 2010, 10:15:07 PM
Fast work on Hans' tree puzzle too, eh?!! Well done!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on July 20, 2010, 10:30:36 PM
It was Graham's guess that put me on the right track.

A picture taken tonight flower just showing Commelina dianthifolia grown from seed exchange.

Lovely Commelina, the bud is very photogenic  8)


Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 20, 2010, 10:43:24 PM
It was Graham's guess that put me on the right track.

A picture taken tonight flower just showing Commelina dianthifolia grown from seed exchange.

Lovely Commelina, the bud is very photogenic  8)


Well, I've grown this plant for years- I am fond of it and I still didn't guess the answer! I love the way the flowers emerge and their colour is lovely but this aspect was a new one for me..... great to learn and SEE these things!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on July 21, 2010, 05:38:40 AM
You're all so clever..I'm amazed!!!!
Sure you'll find this one in no time...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on July 21, 2010, 06:05:52 AM
Some kind of a demented Euphorbia? :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on July 21, 2010, 06:46:08 AM
No, sorry, Lesley!  ;D
And I think you don't need that plant, anyway...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: olegKon on July 21, 2010, 03:11:04 PM
An orostachys sp.?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 21, 2010, 03:51:46 PM
post 1033.....You're all so clever..I'm amazed!!!!
Sure you'll find this one in no time...


I'll have a guess.... I think this picture is showing an unusual aspect to this flower.... taken from directly above, so  we are not seeing that the inflorescence is much longer than it seems...... ::)  I think this may be the budding head of a Kniphofia... maybe Kniphofia buchananii  ??? :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on July 21, 2010, 07:53:28 PM
No Orostachys either, Oleg, sorry!
But Maggi, you have guessed the main point: yes, the picture is taken from right above the flower! Not a Kniphofia though...and not that long either, in fact....
Noone has the right family either...
I extend the hint: Neither Lesley nor Mark will ever need that plant...nor will Oleg, Maggi or me, but to a lesser extent...
It's a species, not a cultivar.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 21, 2010, 08:06:50 PM
This is proving an intriguing puzzle... thanks, Zephirine..... I'm sure you have given us a great clue......  :-\  ??? ??? ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: arisaema on July 21, 2010, 08:30:24 PM
Poaceae? Reminds me of Phalaris canariensis...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Casalima on July 21, 2010, 08:36:40 PM
My first reaction was an Allium, and after the hints ... But which one?? If it is, impossible for me to guess!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on July 21, 2010, 08:42:06 PM
No poaceae, no Allium...sorry, folks!
The clue refers to the plant's common name, in fact, Maggi....
The genus is very well known, and the species not really unknown either!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on July 21, 2010, 09:18:21 PM
No Orostachys either, Oleg, sorry!

I extend the hint: Neither Lesley nor Mark will ever need that plant...nor will Oleg, Maggi or me, but to a lesser extent...

You call that a hint? ??? :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on July 21, 2010, 09:37:02 PM
need as in they have some already or need as in don't like it - like a double flower?
 ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on July 21, 2010, 09:49:24 PM
A variegated Sedum perhaps... :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on July 22, 2010, 04:42:45 AM
No Sedum either, Nicole!  ;)
OK, forget about that clue, Lesley... ;D ("need" because the reason why this plant was used in the old times is absent in NZ and Ireland)
Let's try something else...
It belongs to a genus of very tough plants, and most of them are spiny, but not this one...
Does that make a better clue?  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on July 22, 2010, 06:40:42 AM
Just found this and reading about the clue my first thought was some Ornithogalum or better Urginea, but this genus is not so well known I think.
But tough etc. it might be some Aloe?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on July 22, 2010, 06:53:52 AM
None of these either, sorry  8) ...not even the family...
But with you Aloe, you have something, there, about the species name....which refers to one of its cousins!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on July 22, 2010, 07:04:24 AM
Agave??
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on July 22, 2010, 07:10:49 AM
For the species name? Nope...try again: a far more common and hardy plant of the same family...undestructible, alas....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on July 22, 2010, 07:29:07 AM
For the species name? Nope...try again: a far more common and hardy plant of the same family...undestructible, alas....

I understand Zephirine. Veratrum
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on July 22, 2010, 07:45:40 AM
Eryngium agavifolium ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on July 22, 2010, 08:50:58 AM
Yes, Nicole!!! Well done! Congratulations!
It is...nearly Eryngium agavifolium! Lol
It's an eryngium, all right, but not this one! ;D
Zeph

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on July 22, 2010, 09:39:03 AM
Eryngium yuccifolium  :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on July 22, 2010, 10:03:54 AM
Eryngium maritimum is found in Ireland and E. vesiculosum is a new Zealand species. E. campestre is a rare, possibly introduced, species found in the south of England and the only other species wild in the UK.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on July 22, 2010, 10:16:54 AM
Yes!!! This time it is the perfect answer, Nicole!
Eryngium yuccifolium it is!!!
The "clue" didn't refer to the presence of Eryngium in NZ and Ireland, Anthony, but to the nickname of E. yuccifolium : "Rattlesnake Master". Its roots were used by the American Indiens to (try to) cure te effects of Rattesnakes venon.
There are no snakes at all (or so was I told) in NZ and Ireland.
And while we do have snakes in old'Urup, I don't think we have rattesnakes though...this is why I said "to a lesser extent"...since maybe Eryngium yuccifolium roots might have an effect on other venons, I don't know...
Congratulations to all for your efforts and patience!
Here are two pics of the plant, but seen from the side...lol!
Zephirine

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on July 22, 2010, 10:19:48 AM
Brilliant. ;D I like it! 8) Didn't think of the snake connection. ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on July 22, 2010, 10:21:54 AM
Wonderful first picture, Zeph  ;) As ever...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 22, 2010, 10:42:01 AM
Wonderful, wonderful puzzle!  Great photo and cleverly hinted.... well done to Zeph for making it and to Nicole for finding the answer!! 8) 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Casalima on July 22, 2010, 10:43:24 AM
Excellent puzzle and excellent plant! I'll be keeping an eye out for it!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on July 22, 2010, 12:36:44 PM
Super puzzle that kept us all guessing Zephirine .....well done for guessing it Nicole  :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on July 22, 2010, 12:44:07 PM
Thanks Maggi and Ragged Robin but I am used to Zeph's riddles  :D :D :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on July 22, 2010, 03:13:17 PM
Thank you ladies (correction: AND gentlemen!)!  :-[
Should you feel like other ones of the same type, I can provide! Except that Nicole already knows a number of my little tricks, and it is becoming more and more difficult to surprise her!... ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on July 22, 2010, 05:40:54 PM
Thank you ladies!  :-[


Ladies.....  ??? Well, o.k. 5 :3  :o :o :o

Nevertheless, great puzzle Zephirine. Rather cryptic too!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on July 22, 2010, 05:42:40 PM
Oops, I better should not have written the above message :-\ :-\  Cannot turn it back  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on July 22, 2010, 05:55:29 PM

I extend the hint: Neither Lesley nor Mark will ever need that plant...nor will Oleg, Maggi or me, but to a lesser extent...


Zephirine, I think the clue mentioning "Lesley nor Mark" led at least one forumist (and myself) to believe I was that Mark, as opposed to Mark S (of Ireland), thus the allium guess.  Good puzzle though, this one really had me scratching my head.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on July 22, 2010, 09:16:53 PM
An excellent puzzle indeed, and no, there are no snakes in New Zealand - maybe in zoos? -except of the politician kind of course. We all have those. No matter how many clues there were, I wouldn't have got it; I can't even do the crossword in the local paper. BUT - I do have Eryngium yuccifolium! ::) ::) ::). In my defence, it hasn't flowered yet. :-[ :-[ :-[
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on July 23, 2010, 05:33:20 AM
Oops...I had not realized there were several "Marks" here, lol...
And replied too fast too, gentlemen...please forgive me, I'm impressed, and not familiar enough with all the brilliant people here!
I'm glad you enjoyed it, however! Thank you!
Lesley, we also have that sort of rattlesnakes, yes, I hear their sound every time I turn the radio or TV on! A few others at the office too, lol!  ;D
While we are talking about snakes..what about this menacing hooded Cobra? Will you recognize it too?  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on July 23, 2010, 07:47:59 AM

And replied too fast too, gentlemen...please forgive me,


Done!  8)

My first and only thought is Lamium orvala Zephirine.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on July 23, 2010, 10:12:12 AM
First shot! Perfect answer!
Congratulations!
Yes, it is Lamium orvala. It always surprises me, the size of the flowers compared to other lamiums...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on July 23, 2010, 08:32:00 PM
I really like this thread so I thought I would have a go myself. This is probably easy, so how quickly can you get it.
I hope the photo is large enough.

Graham

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 23, 2010, 08:43:42 PM
My goodness, Graham... that's an easy one right enough... obviously a Zoob from the planet Zorb.... I can clearly see his little tentacles........ ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on July 23, 2010, 08:57:08 PM
My goodness, Graham... that's an easy one right enough... obviously a Zoob from the planet Zorb.... I can clearly see his little tentacles........ ::)

Darn it! Maggi you're really good I thought it might take a couple of guesses ;) ;D
Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on July 24, 2010, 02:09:12 PM
It certainly does look alien  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on July 24, 2010, 02:39:58 PM
Looks vaguely like Cosmos atrosanguinea, or else, it's a Zoob from the planet Zorb.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: arisaema on July 24, 2010, 02:45:09 PM
Must be a Veratrum, maybe V. formosanum or V. nigrum.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on July 24, 2010, 02:53:55 PM
Must be a Veratrum, maybe V. formosanum or V. nigrum.

Arisaema, I think you're on the right track, just googled Veratrum nigrum and it does indeed look like the right thing, or its a zoob.
http://www.ogrodkroton.pl/TSI/zdjecia/veratrum_nigrum.jpg

Incidentally Maggi, my two girls used to have a whole set of zoobs, an ingenious construction type toy, probably made in China instead of the planet Zorb (costs are cheaper).
http://www.google.com/images?um=1&hl=en&biw=1271&bih=828&tbs=isch%3A1&sa=1&q=zoob&aq=f&aqi=g10&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on July 24, 2010, 04:13:28 PM
Arisaema,
Spot on first time :) Well done.

Veratrum nigrum. Another of my dark coloured flowers.

Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on July 24, 2010, 04:25:40 PM
Very amazing plant... and picture  :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on July 24, 2010, 04:26:46 PM
Pity it wasn't a zoob though. Perhaps when someone discoveres a new plant they would like to call it a zoob.

Is my mind playing trick or do I remember from my childhood a sweet called zoobs or perhaps a cough lozenge. This may be giving my age away either because I remember them or that my mind is playing tricks on me :-\ ???

Just googled it but can't find anything.

Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on July 24, 2010, 04:29:49 PM
Very amazing plant... and picture  :D

Yes it is an amazing plant, but just to warn that all parts are highly toxic.

Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: arisaema on July 24, 2010, 04:33:47 PM
It really is a lovely plant! I'm still waiting for mine to start flowering, it must be closer to 10 years... :P

Here's another one that should be easy, at least for those who grow it :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on July 24, 2010, 04:39:36 PM
I have now added this (the Veratrum) to my ever-increasing "plants I must grow" list. :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on July 24, 2010, 05:21:38 PM
I have now added this (the Veratrum) to my ever-increasing "plants I must grow" list. :D

Do you want some seed Mark?
Thats if it sets seed this year.
Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on July 24, 2010, 05:26:09 PM
Just found Zoobs - should have spelt it Zubes.
Still for sale so I'm not going mad and I could be younger than I suggested you may think I am.

Zubes Original Lozenges
Size: 36 g
For relief from sore throat, cough and cold symptoms. The warming vapour of Zubes lozenges help soothe your chest and throat and clear your nose.

Graham

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on July 25, 2010, 06:57:55 PM
Very amazing plant... and picture  :D

Yes it is an amazing plant, but just to warn that all parts are highly toxic.

Graham
Yes the cows leave it untouched in the field, but here is a picture showing that you can touch it without harm  ;D ;D
But it is one of my favourite huge perennials!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on July 25, 2010, 09:21:26 PM
Luit, fantastic specimen of Veratrum nigrum.  What sort of soil and moisture conditions are best for this plant, the photo shows gravel on top, but I assume that is just a top-dressing.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on July 25, 2010, 09:50:55 PM
Arisaema griffithii (or something else really weird like it)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on July 25, 2010, 10:52:31 PM
Luit, fantastic specimen of Veratrum nigrum.  What sort of soil and moisture conditions are best for this plant, the photo shows gravel on top, but I assume that is just a top-dressing.
Mark, I grow it here in sandy soil, the same as all bulbs are cultivated here in the area. The topdressing is more for the show, but they like rooting in cool soil, I believe.
Here is a picture of a more mature plant which must be 20 years at least on the same place. It is surrounded by plants like Lysimachia punctata, which cover the surrounding soil.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on July 25, 2010, 11:17:17 PM
I think the Veratrums in general like a lot of moisture as I have several, all in dryish places (my whole garden is dry) and though they grow and flower, they are only half the height of Luit's amazing plant. :(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: arisaema on July 26, 2010, 07:19:48 AM
Arisaema griffithii (or something else really weird like it)

It is, A. dahaiense, a close relative of A. griffithii :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 26, 2010, 10:39:09 AM
Both super pix, Bjørnar..... these plants are tailor made for puzzle pictures with their weird forms and fantastic markings.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on July 26, 2010, 10:45:29 PM
Here a new one. Rather easy for those who use it ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on July 26, 2010, 11:18:54 PM
Opium?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on July 26, 2010, 11:23:39 PM
Oh yes, surely the top of a seed pod of Papaver somniferum. What is snuff made from?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on July 27, 2010, 07:03:15 AM
So that was too easy then. Yes, Papaver somniferum.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 02, 2010, 10:21:37 AM
The farmers round here have just sprayed their potato crops with some fiendish defoliant. Why? ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 02, 2010, 10:40:01 AM
The farmers round here have just sprayed their potato crops with some fiendish defoliant. Why? ???

 I believe this is done on potatoes grown as seed crops: there is some evidence that defoliation increases the number of "eyes" on the tubers, increasing their quality for use as seed potoatoes.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 02, 2010, 12:04:31 PM
The farmers round here have just sprayed their potato crops with some fiendish defoliant. Why? ???

 I believe this is done on potatoes grown as seed crops: there is some evidence that defoliation increases the number of "eyes" on the tubers, increasing their quality for use as seed potoatoes.

Hence the song title; 'The blight has a thousand eyes'?    :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on August 02, 2010, 08:00:31 PM
Cor blimey ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on August 08, 2010, 11:31:09 AM
Would you recognize that unexpectedly hairy fellow?  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 08, 2010, 02:19:47 PM
Would you recognize that unexpectedly hairy fellow?  ;)

Ermmmm.... it's not my husband; he's a hairy fellow but that is not Ian....... :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 08, 2010, 02:43:21 PM
This is gonna be sooooooo difficult and I expect the only person to get it will be the bug master

You might have to start with the game Animal, Vegetable, Mineral
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 08, 2010, 04:21:03 PM
Lesley, snuff is finely ground tobacco
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 08, 2010, 04:59:13 PM
This is gonna be sooooooo difficult and I expect the only person to get it will be the bug master

You might have to start with the game Animal, Vegetable, Mineral
Animal.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 08, 2010, 05:00:16 PM
This is gonna be sooooooo difficult and I expect the only person to get it will be the bug master

You might have to start with the game Animal, Vegetable, Mineral
Animal.
Unless they're seedpods, in which case forget my first answer!! ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ArnoldT on August 08, 2010, 06:23:38 PM
Not yet at full size. 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 08, 2010, 06:29:42 PM
That's an easy one, Arnold.... it is surely the American Football Tree!  ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ArnoldT on August 08, 2010, 06:32:06 PM
Looks more like a rugby ball.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 08, 2010, 06:34:36 PM
Yes Maggi you're correct - animal
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 08, 2010, 06:41:29 PM
Looks more like a rugby ball.
Nah, they're never green.... but I would believe anything of American ( and Australian)  football!  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on August 08, 2010, 07:49:44 PM
Would you recognize that unexpectedly hairy fellow?  ;)


Zephrine,
Is it a Penstemon?
Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on August 08, 2010, 09:47:19 PM
No, Graham, not a penstemon. But it's another well known genus where I had never seen such hair on the petals!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on August 08, 2010, 10:29:41 PM
Could it be a Dianthus ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 08, 2010, 10:45:38 PM
I think the key to Zeph's "watzit" puzzle is in the colour.......unfortunately that's as much as I do think..... :-\


 Mark: are your black "seeds" Flatworm Eggs?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on August 09, 2010, 01:21:55 AM
I'm thinking egg sacs of something anyway. I find very similar things under trays in my tunnel sometimes, but they are glossier than Mark's. Some kind of black beetle, I think.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on August 09, 2010, 05:49:35 AM
No dianthus either, Gunilla...
The colour is linked to this specific species, Maggi, yes. I'd better enlarge the watzit picture to make it easier, maybe...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 09, 2010, 12:45:52 PM
Yes Maggi you're correct - animal
Remind me of flatworm egg capsules Mark.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 09, 2010, 01:04:33 PM
I thought maybe 'Geranium'  ::)  Then clicked......

http://zephirine38.over-blog.com/

 :D

Fabulous images Zephirine!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on August 09, 2010, 01:40:19 PM
Well done Ragged Robin  ;D Mine is less hairy Zeph, I was just looking at it,  closely  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on August 09, 2010, 01:51:27 PM
ROTFL...I thought the french language would prevent you from finding it.
Well done, Robin!  ;D. And dear Fleurbleue, you were out of the game, anyway, this time! :-*
Yes, it is G. soboliferum 'Starman'.
Fleurbleue, in fact I noticed that the hair is mainly visible when the flower has just opened. I believe it falls later as the flower matures...
By the way...Would anyone know why it was called "soboliferum"? My latin dictionnary says "soboles"= suboles= shoots or offsprings..This Geranium seems to have a few new shoots sprouting around the original crown, but not more (or even less) than a number of others...and no babies dangling in the air like chlorophytum, lol...
Just wondering! (female curiosity, I guess..) ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 09, 2010, 02:14:26 PM
Could I win some seed someday  ;
Pourrais je gagne une certaine graine un jour  :-*

(Zephirine, I love the way you write in French, I could learn a lot from your blog - my french is not so creative  ;D)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on August 09, 2010, 02:38:37 PM
Wouldn't you prefer to win a "sobol" next year, dear Robin? (I'm not sure it will have time to set seeds, since it started blooming so late this year).
Congratulations on your french, anyway! Being able to read and understand my (bad) jokes certainly is an achievement!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 09, 2010, 02:43:51 PM
Thank you so much for your generous offer, Zephirine, would it grow in the Swiss Alps do you think? Wild geranium love it there.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 09, 2010, 02:46:32 PM
Mark,
is your puzzle seed of beans?
Vicia faba (schwarzsamige Puffbohne) or Phaseolus vulgaris var. nanus (Buschbohne "schwarze Kugel"; black turtle beans) ?

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on August 09, 2010, 03:11:40 PM
Mark, could it be what's left of the caviar box you treated yourself to, after "the great news"?  ;D
If I'm right, thanks for sharing!
(even if 5 caviar eggs for the number of us...but, well, better than nothing!  ;D )
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on August 09, 2010, 03:18:50 PM
Zephirine, would it grow in the Swiss Alps do you think? Wild geranium love it there.
Yes, I do! (G. soboliferum is reputed hardy to USDA zone 4)...provided you can give it enough and regular moisture. It hates it when it's dry.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 09, 2010, 05:02:38 PM
http://www.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http://www.dgsgardening.btinternet.co.uk/flatwrmegg.JPG&imgrefurl=http://www.dgsgardening.btinternet.co.uk/flatworm.htm&usg=__T6OyjMif0MHfyOUGxgsy11iVa3E=&h=254&w=426&sz=14&hl=en&start=0&tbnid=P2VxuZGgPHziAM:&tbnh=156&tbnw=181&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dnew%2Bzealand%2Bflatworm%2Beggs%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26biw%3D994%26bih%3D625%26tbs%3Disch:1&um=1&itbs=1&iact=hc&vpx=108&vpy=99&dur=904&hovh=173&hovw=291&tx=125&ty=78&ei=eiZgTMjPI5eisgakjtHHBw&oei=eiZgTMjPI5eisgakjtHHBw&esq=1&page=1&ndsp=12&ved=1t:429,r:0,s:0
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 09, 2010, 05:11:38 PM
Or here:
http://www.srgc.org.uk/bulblog/log2007/100107/log.html
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 09, 2010, 06:00:45 PM
very strange that I just added to the discussion but it hasnt arrived.

Yeo says Geranium soboliferum, I knew the answer :D, is supposed to produce runners but he has never seen any
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 09, 2010, 06:02:37 PM
my puzzle - none are correct. I'm trying to give a clue but cant think of one just now
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 09, 2010, 06:43:00 PM
Well Mark, if it's not New Zealand flat worm eggs I'm stumped!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 09, 2010, 07:46:47 PM
These are related to something I am interested in - relative doesnt mean in the same family

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 09, 2010, 08:23:13 PM
Swift fly (Crataerina pallida) pupae! Not something you want a lot of Mark.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 09, 2010, 08:49:03 PM
you're good or was the clue too easy?

The strange life cycle is the pupa becomes an adult next June and produces a larva in late July missing out the egg stage but where do the adults go?

ready to scream? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:CrataerinaPallidaKlausRoggel01.jpg (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:CrataerinaPallidaKlausRoggel01.jpg)

Scaled up and living on us they would be the size of  saucer
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on August 09, 2010, 09:31:43 PM
 :o :o :o :o  Filthy creepycrawly !!!  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 09, 2010, 10:21:26 PM
:o :o :o :o  Filthy creepycrawly !!!  ;D


 I second that!  To the power of ten!  :o :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 09, 2010, 10:56:37 PM
I once found a dying swift in Bridge of Allan. I picked it up and a dozen or so of these shot off and up my sleeve. I caught one and still have it in alcohol. Where the rest went I've no idea. I do remember trying for ages to catch a (similar) sheep ked on a young girl's tights, with her mother fretting beside me (why?) when we lived in Callander. 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 10, 2010, 11:25:21 AM
Mark,
thanks for the good puzzle.

Anthony,
I made similar experience when picking up a dying swift. The leeches are damn fast.
The infestation in Ireland with flat worms is quite interesting. Never heard before.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on August 10, 2010, 09:34:10 PM
I always feel really guilty when I hear about the problem in the UK with NZ flatworms. Not that it was anything to do with me though. They're not a problem here at all, being native and quietly going about their business and leaving earthworms alone so far as I know. What I thought were black beetle egg sacs were obviously flatworm sacs. I have quite a few here.

While the thought of proposed new regulatons on an international scale, for importing plant material is frightening, this flatworm thing is proof that something really is needed. With proper biosecurity in the UK, the problem would never have arisen.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 10, 2010, 11:23:01 PM
There is an international traveller called the flower pot snake (Ramphotyphlops braminus). It feeds on ant larvae and termites and its maximum length is 16.5 cm, so it's not big. Originally from Africa, it has been introduced to many other regions including the Americas and Australia. Guess how! ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ruweiss on August 11, 2010, 09:08:13 PM
A more pleasant puzzle picture flowering today in my garden.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gail on August 11, 2010, 09:50:31 PM
A more pleasant puzzle picture flowering today in my garden.
Agapanthus praecox 'Flore Pleno'?  (Mine is just about to open)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 11, 2010, 09:54:51 PM
very nice
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ruweiss on August 11, 2010, 10:11:03 PM
Gail, you are right; a real quick action. I did not know the exact species.
Got this plant as a small piece from an elder lady who passed away last year,
a beautiful souvenir.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 11, 2010, 10:17:08 PM
the double Agapanthus is a very soft blue, isn't it?  A gentle colour, but clear, too.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on August 11, 2010, 11:09:15 PM
There is an international traveller called the flower pot snake (Ramphotyphlops braminus). It feeds on ant larvae and termites and its maximum length is 16.5 cm, so it's not big. Originally from Africa, it has been introduced to many other regions including the Americas and Australia. Guess how! ::)

In a flower pot? :) Or in aircraft luggage?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 11:07:48 AM
who know what this is ?

Hans 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 12, 2010, 12:25:55 PM
A double thrift?  Armeria sp.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on August 12, 2010, 12:50:40 PM
Could it be a double pink Anemonopsis?  Does such a thing exist?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 12:55:14 PM
ooops - McMark  :o

I'm really surprised that you answer me ....

Sorry no Anemonopsis !
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on August 12, 2010, 02:35:26 PM
Maybe it's not that at all, but I'll try nonetheless..
Could it be the early stage of the female Larix decidua "flower"?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 02:53:19 PM
Sorry Zephirine ...no Larix !
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on August 12, 2010, 03:27:07 PM
Some pink Helycrisum, then?  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 03:41:22 PM
Sorry Zephirine ...no Helycrisum !

I'm really happy that still after 4 hours nobody knows what it is  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 12, 2010, 03:44:21 PM
Quote
ooops - McMark 

I'm really surprised that you answer me ....

Will McMark have the answer - is there an onion link?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on August 12, 2010, 04:00:21 PM
Quote
ooops - McMark 

I'm really surprised that you answer me ....

Will McMark have the answer - is there an onion link?

Nope... I don't think so, no onion link that I can see.  But maybe Zephirine was on to something, maybe the pink "petals" are bracts, with the actual flower buds in the center.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on August 12, 2010, 04:07:32 PM
May be double Delphinium flower  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ArnoldT on August 12, 2010, 04:08:19 PM



dahlia
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on August 12, 2010, 04:15:42 PM
Got a new idea!!!
Nelumbo momo-botan! ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on August 12, 2010, 04:19:43 PM
Is it a Heliconia?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on August 12, 2010, 04:21:41 PM
In any case, nice flower  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 04:21:54 PM
sorry ..but all are wrong  :'(

no Dahlia
no Nelumbo
no Delphinium
no Heliconia

any other ideas ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on August 12, 2010, 04:28:09 PM
begonia ?...  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: zephirine on August 12, 2010, 04:33:00 PM
Double aquilegia? ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 04:37:16 PM
sorry for our french members ....no point for France  :'(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ArnoldT on August 12, 2010, 05:14:03 PM
Ah, Peony
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 12, 2010, 05:27:40 PM
I'm thoroughly puzzled.... thought I'd re-post the photo here to this page ...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 05:41:31 PM
Sorry Arnold - no peony  :'(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: WimB on August 12, 2010, 05:57:07 PM
Maggi, you've given it away in the name of the pic....  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 12, 2010, 06:01:52 PM
Maggi, you've given it away in the name of the pic....  ;)

 I don't think so, Wim.... I don't know the answer but I made the title of the pic "puzzle HJ" for "puzzle by Hans Joschko" when I saved the pic to repost it! ;D

 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: WimB on August 12, 2010, 06:03:20 PM
Maggi, you've given it away in the name of the pic....  ;)

 I don't think so, Wim.... I don't know the answer but I made the title of the pic "puzzle HJ" for "puzzle by Hans Joschko" when I saved the pic to repost it! ;D

 

HJ... I thought Hepatica japonica...maybe not.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 12, 2010, 06:10:24 PM
Probably some fiendish double pink leucojum?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ArnoldT on August 12, 2010, 06:13:29 PM
I think he made it out of bits and pieces of old silk flowers!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 06:21:19 PM
come on ..I wait for the RIGHT answer  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 12, 2010, 06:21:46 PM
Probably some fiendish double pink leucojum?
Yuck... I do hope such a thing does not exist!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 12, 2010, 06:23:32 PM
come on ..I wait for the RIGHT answer  ::)
oh! Is this a clue?      :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 06:26:17 PM
some people in Italy would say it is made from wax  ;D ;D ;D

I wait now for our friends in Australia + NZ ....maybe they have a idea  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ArnoldT on August 12, 2010, 06:30:15 PM
The petals have the iridescence of a Nerine
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 06:32:59 PM
more than 30 answers later ....

Sorry Arnold - no Nerine  :'(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on August 12, 2010, 06:49:27 PM
Anemonella  ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 06:50:28 PM
Sorry Gunilla ...no Anemonella  :'(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on August 12, 2010, 06:50:42 PM
Is it a parasitic plant, akin to Monotropa or Sarcodes?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 06:53:04 PM
MyMark - no parasitics  :'(


...I give ( near ) always answers....
Hans
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on August 12, 2010, 06:56:06 PM
Maybe Calystegia? (never seen it myself, but in a catalogue)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 07:04:36 PM
Luit ....sorry but I dont know what is Calystegia ...sorry ....

I had really a lot of hope for you ....you are a most expieried plantsman ...and you see always a lot in Lisse flowershow ....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: WimB on August 12, 2010, 08:11:42 PM
Wax... Hoya??
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 12, 2010, 08:34:36 PM
I remember a posting showing a wax flower that we all thought was real but can't remember if it was from Italy  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 08:59:07 PM
Wim ...sorry ...no Hoya
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 09:01:27 PM
I remember a posting showing a wax flower that we all thought was real but can't remember if it was from Italy  ::)

Robin :

please read here :
http://www.srgc.org.uk/smf/index.php?topic=5769.msg159964#msg159964
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on August 12, 2010, 09:01:54 PM
Is it a Wrightia?
Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 09:05:07 PM
Graham ...sorry ...( but what is Wrightia ? )

it is really interesting to read which genus all should this plant ....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 12, 2010, 09:05:53 PM
Is it a Wrightia?
Graham
Dunno.... what IS a Wrightia!??

 HaHa... Hans posted the very same question at the same time!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 12, 2010, 09:08:55 PM
Maggi

I know only a cacti which is named Lobivia wrightiana ( from Peru )
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on August 12, 2010, 09:12:46 PM
I don't know either,
I was just playing with the word right in google and came up with this link and thought I would give it a go.

See link

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wrightia
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: WimB on August 12, 2010, 10:12:17 PM
Hmmm,

if it's something with the Italian word for wax in it, it should be something with "cera"  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on August 12, 2010, 10:27:38 PM
Luit ....sorry but I dont know what is Calystegia ...sorry ....

I had really a lot of hope for you ....you are a most expieried plantsman ...and you see always a lot in Lisse flowershow ....
Hans, when I might see it at the show, then a Begonia, but these are seldom shown.
Cannot think of anything else, except Curcuma maybe.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 12, 2010, 10:37:18 PM
Hepatica nobilis?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ArnoldT on August 12, 2010, 11:03:34 PM
Hepatica Tamamushi
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on August 12, 2010, 11:12:46 PM
Something made of sugar? ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on August 12, 2010, 11:13:44 PM
What it looks like is the double Galtonia candicans, called 'Moonbeam' but that is ceamy-white of course.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 12, 2010, 11:15:02 PM
I've tried "right" in several languages.... found nothing except some Rhodos with "Dexter" in their name! :-X

This is one good puzzle!  
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 12, 2010, 11:17:04 PM
Definitely, Hepatica.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 13, 2010, 07:40:44 AM
Hi all ,

I'm sorry to say ...it is not a Hepatica ....and also not made from sugar

Here is a little help - this plant grows free in my garden and is around 1,5 m high  8)

Maggi : what is with my certificate ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 13, 2010, 08:16:13 AM
Just found this - I would suggest an Althaea rosea (Hollyhock) or a Lavatera.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 13, 2010, 08:18:48 AM
Stephen - sorry no Althaea or Lavatera  :'(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: bulborum on August 13, 2010, 08:27:41 AM
Must be a Clotefonia aurantiaca
or a Slootsecantia argenteo marginata

(http://www.thesmilies.com/smilies/jumping/jumping0044.gif)

Roland
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 13, 2010, 08:32:32 AM
Sorry Roland ..... :'(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 13, 2010, 08:43:57 AM
I'm wondering if this flower is very small on a stem that is very tall growing something like T, delavayi Hewitt’s Double  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on August 13, 2010, 08:47:50 AM
Consolida ?



Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 13, 2010, 08:51:11 AM
Robin  :o :o :o

You are right : this is Thalictrum delavayii 'Hewitt's Double'
the diameter of one flower is 5 mm  :P

My compliment - you are very clever  ;)

Hans 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 13, 2010, 08:56:28 AM
OMGoodness, I am overcome with the emotion of cracking your puzzle Hans   :o :o :o :) :) :) :D :D :D ;D ;D ;D ;D 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) :P :P :-* :-* :-*

Such a good puzzle  8)

I couldn't find a good photo of it on the web but was thinking of these lovely pink flowers floating in your garden and thought of a Thalictrum  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Renate Brinkers on August 13, 2010, 08:58:21 AM
Sempervivum???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on August 13, 2010, 09:19:50 AM
Well done Ragged Robin ! Congratulations  ;D 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 13, 2010, 11:14:28 AM
Congratulations to Robin for solving this  tricky puzzle and, of course, to Hans for setting it.   Rewards are called for, I think..... but someone  :-X has eaten the chocolate intended for a prize....so as a replacement......


For Robin:


[attach=1]



For Hans:

[attach=2]
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 13, 2010, 11:42:35 AM
Maggi ,

I'm deeply touched from your award !
of course I have printet and it is now on a place for honor in our living room  ;D


Hans 8)

 >:( ...but who has eaten our chocolate  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 13, 2010, 11:53:28 AM


 >:( ...but who has eaten our chocolate  ???

 Well, of course I am aware of the identity of the chocolate thief, but for the sake of harmonious relations in the Forum I prefer not to divulge this information  :-X

[attach=1]
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 13, 2010, 11:58:00 AM
Maggi,

I will treasure this award and like Hans have printed it!  However the real prize is Han's for setting such a tricky puzzle that kept all Forumists on their toes - I think he really enjoyed outwitting us but someone had to guess in the end and it happened to be me - de Bono helped!  :D

Now where's that chocolate hidden ::) :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 13, 2010, 12:30:19 PM
Hi all ,

here are now two pics from this mystery plant  ;D

I have to say a 'thank you' to all plantfriends who are involved and also thank you to the people from Canon ( which have build this camera IXUS 870 ) - the digital macrofunction is really good !!!

Hans
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 13, 2010, 12:31:01 PM
and a second :
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on August 13, 2010, 12:50:04 PM
Hans you are a "cheat"   ;D Your Thalictrum, as mine, is blue shaded but pink in your puzzle  :-\    ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 13, 2010, 12:56:59 PM
HaHa... I see what you mean, Nicole.... but the flower is blue on the outside and shows pink in close up, from the front,  I think :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 13, 2010, 01:29:12 PM
Good puzzle, Hans, and well done, Robin.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 13, 2010, 01:45:45 PM
Hans you are a "cheat"   ;D Your Thalictrum, as mine, is blue shaded but pink in your puzzle  :-\    ;D ;D ;D

 :o oh no Nicole !!!

The first pic was made inside our house ( only rain yesterday ) with artifical light ....the both other today outside - this plants are difficould to photograph ....
I have nothing made with changing the colors !!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on August 13, 2010, 01:59:41 PM
 ;D I'm used to changing pink colour with my husband's pics of my garden plants Hans !  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 14, 2010, 12:39:09 PM
This one should take a lot shorter time to solve:

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 14, 2010, 08:43:05 PM
Stephen, I can only guess it must be something edible. (Just fishing for hints!)

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 15, 2010, 09:04:31 AM
34 views and no guesses! 

Yes, Paddy, it is "edible" - it was served at the table in the UK over 100 years ago in fact. No, no fish involved!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 15, 2010, 09:50:15 AM
Those tentacles remind me of something growing on a reef is it a water/sea vegetable Stephen?  A sort of 'fernyfrondsamphire'?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 15, 2010, 12:00:26 PM
Nope, not a sea vegetable, but there is a sea beasty with the same name as this plant.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 15, 2010, 12:20:34 PM
Sea cucumber?   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 15, 2010, 01:07:45 PM
Good guess, Cliff, but wrong  ;D

However, my plant was used in a dish that Cucumber is also used...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 15, 2010, 01:21:28 PM
Gherkin?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 15, 2010, 01:47:01 PM
No, much, much smaller (this is a rock garden forum, is it not?)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on August 15, 2010, 04:12:08 PM
It reminds me of a Calendula seed but I don't know about your clues  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 15, 2010, 04:19:23 PM
I see the likeness, but it's not a Calendula and to help you I can tell you it's not in the Asteraceae - that removes 22,750 species from the possibilities... ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on August 15, 2010, 04:23:10 PM
Thanks, that really helps a lot  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 15, 2010, 04:28:01 PM
Anemone? 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 15, 2010, 05:29:19 PM
Not Ranunculaceae either, Cliff. How many of them are there?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 15, 2010, 07:30:11 PM
Is it one of the cucumis (cucumber) family?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 15, 2010, 07:35:34 PM
No, on second thought,(especially as Google has something like 56,000 images for the cucumber family) I really don't  like cucumbers and so resign from attempts to solve this puzzle. Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 15, 2010, 07:56:34 PM
No, none of the Cucumbers, so you're safe and can carry on guessing. Here's the entire picture:

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 15, 2010, 08:00:02 PM
Something fernish?

Fiddlehead? Ostrich fern. Matteuccia struthiopteris?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 15, 2010, 08:06:46 PM
None of the ferns, I'm afraid (the picture was taken this week in my garden).

Re-Fiddlehead: the opposite end and you're halfway there....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 15, 2010, 08:19:14 PM
I'm lost.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on August 15, 2010, 08:26:15 PM
Me too ??? ??? ???
Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 15, 2010, 08:42:48 PM
it is a vegetable (edible), it is small...

Medicago perhaps?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 15, 2010, 08:58:44 PM
Something tail? - I want to say horsetail but it doesn't look anything like the horsetail plants I know although I see they were used since ancient time for medicinal purposes including hair loss!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 15, 2010, 09:11:26 PM
Armin you could be correct. I photographed something very similar back in April
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on August 15, 2010, 09:13:16 PM
Too curly for phacelia I suppose?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 15, 2010, 09:52:50 PM
Mark,
maybe but I've no idea which 'sea beasty' has the same name >:( ::) :-\ :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 15, 2010, 10:14:07 PM
The Kraken ???  Mythical squid-ike sea monster  :o ..... can't be bracken fronds (fern family)  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 15, 2010, 11:03:31 PM
Quote
Re-Fiddlehead: the opposite end and you're halfway there....

head of dill  :-\

For an old recipe:
Cucumber and dill seeds/flowers?   ::) :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Martin Baxendale on August 15, 2010, 11:26:42 PM
No, none of the Cucumbers, so you're safe and can carry on guessing. Here's the entire picture:



I think I see flower bracts, which might make those curly things seed pods?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 16, 2010, 08:03:50 AM
Armin's on the right track, Ragged Robin is half way there, Martin B is correct and if only Mark could remember what he took a photo of back in April we'd maybe have an answer. A clever lot aren't you!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 16, 2010, 09:13:41 AM
Stephen,
medicago has more then 85 sorts... ???

Edible are M. sativa ssp. but seeds are different.
M. arborea is not small and I'm doubtful it grows in your climate...
Is it M. saxatilis?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 16, 2010, 09:19:57 AM
Armin: I said you were on the right track, not that it was a Medicago  :) However, there are Medicagos that could be used in food in the same way and for the same reason as my plant  ::)


Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 16, 2010, 10:00:03 AM
For pickling or relishes I wonder?  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 16, 2010, 10:10:10 AM
This is what I photographed growing on waste land in Majorca
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 16, 2010, 10:48:59 AM
Well done, Mark - it certainly looks like you have photographed the same species. It certainly hails from the Mediterannean countries and grows on waste land and fields, much later in my garden in Norway.

This is a funny vegetable (at least it makes me laugh out loud at the dinner table).... ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 16, 2010, 10:53:41 AM
For pickling or relishes I wonder?  ::)

Interesting idea - I might well pickle some and invite you to dinner...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 16, 2010, 11:56:05 AM
but we still DON'T KNOW WHAT IT IS   ???

AND WAS THE SEA BEASTY CONNECTION A RED HERRING  :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 16, 2010, 12:24:58 PM
Would I do such a thing? I was just trying to help...???

Remember, you were halfway there a few posts back. The other part is the name of both a fish and a land creature.... Help?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Martin Baxendale on August 16, 2010, 12:45:18 PM
From the look of it, I'd say the sea creature might be the seahorse.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 16, 2010, 12:58:55 PM
Yes, I think we need to rename this plant, Seahorseus baxendaleus perhaps (here I've used an analogy with the fact that the mystery plant's  genus name is similar to the common english name; i.e., the animal/fish creatures)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 16, 2010, 01:00:28 PM
Puzzled? Yup, I most certainly am!!  :-X :-\ ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gunilla on August 16, 2010, 01:12:39 PM
Me too! I would love to try this funny vegetable that makes  Stephen laugh out loud at the dinner table  :D.   "Curiouser and curiouser"
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 16, 2010, 01:25:41 PM
You are also invited to dinner!

Here are two other cousins which can be used in the same way (together with our mystery plant):

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 16, 2010, 01:58:14 PM
Still only have half a clue and wondered if Catfish, Cat's-head, Genus: Catenaria had any connection otherwise I'm clueless :P

its cousins are even more confusing  :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 16, 2010, 02:02:05 PM
You are also invited to dinner!

Here are two other cousins which can be used in the same way (together with our mystery plant):


Now, these cousins are Medicago types, are they not?  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 16, 2010, 02:11:34 PM
Something tail? - I want to say horsetail but it doesn't look anything like the horsetail plants I know although I see they were used since ancient time for medicinal purposes including hair loss!

This is where you were half right...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 16, 2010, 02:13:09 PM
Now, these cousins are Medicago types, are they not?  ???

Yes
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on August 16, 2010, 02:32:55 PM
After many hours of searching and using some of the cluesand other peoples sugestions I finally came up with what in a google search looks like the answer but I do not see how some of the clues fit but here goes.

Medicago polymorpha

Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 16, 2010, 02:52:32 PM
Glad to see that people are taking this seriously! You should get an award for trying! However, although it certainly does resemble the mystery plant and could also be used, it's not a Medicago... ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 16, 2010, 03:08:03 PM
Now, these cousins are Medicago types, are they not?  ???

Yes
Thanks.... not that I'm any the wiser....... :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 16, 2010, 03:20:52 PM
Mark, you've photographed this plant and must have some idea of it's identity...or just a little clue  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 16, 2010, 03:24:59 PM
my final proposal to solve the puzzle: Scorpiurus subvillosus  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Martin Baxendale on August 16, 2010, 03:41:55 PM
Scorpiurus muricatus. Scorpion and sea-scorpion.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 16, 2010, 07:09:58 PM
Excitement is building. We may have a winner, but some nomenclature issues have arisen. Please wait while I consult the jury....

In the meantime here is the plant in flower:

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 16, 2010, 07:11:38 PM
In case of a tie-break, why would I laugh when serving this?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Martin Baxendale on August 16, 2010, 07:17:55 PM
It was Armin who cracked it. I just read his post suggesting scorpiurus and thought "Scorpion/sea scorpion - that's it" then googled Armin's suggestion of scorpiurus to find pics of Scorpiurus muricatus.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 16, 2010, 07:30:19 PM
Admission : "I've never heard of it".

Excellent puzzle, educated answer, erudite forum.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 16, 2010, 07:47:53 PM
A real teaser Stephen, you played us along nicely with several twist and turns - it is a fascinating looking plant and I hope you'll tell us more a out why you eat it and laugh - or is there another sting in the tail  ;D

Congratulations to Armin for guessing the mystery plant!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 16, 2010, 08:03:11 PM
It was a hard web research to find a solution! ;D After it was not Medicago I looked into Leguminosae. But the difficulty was to find the clue for a vegetable. Finally I utilized Mark's hint and searched in the Flora of Majorca which revealed me the solution.
http://www.botanik-bochum.de/mallorca2008/bilderkrauter.htm (http://www.botanik-bochum.de/mallorca2008/bilderkrauter.htm)

A very good puzzle! It was a great fun.

I don't know what is the latest taxonomy S. muricatus or S. subvillosus. Both are synonyms is my understanding.
So Martin found the "sea beasty".

Stephen,
please reveal us the recipes of the old English dish or how do you use it in your kitchen? ;)
How is the taste of the vegetarian scorpions? ;D


Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on August 16, 2010, 09:00:42 PM
A very good puzzle Stephen :)
Armin, I followed the same route as you did but didn't find the web site that gave you the answer.

Stephen the reason you laugh when serving this is many people think there is a caterpllar in their food as it is supposed to look like one to anyone that doesn't know what it is.
I found that via google. ;)

I will solve one of these one day but it might have to be easier than that.

Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 16, 2010, 09:52:09 PM
I tried to find flora of Majorca and got lost in Mediterranen plants and wasteland ;D. The website you found is great Armin and in English too, which is a bonus  :).

Just one last thing - what happened to the recipe with cucumber that it was used in 100 years ago in the UK?

Graham, I'm sure you are right about the caterpillar look alike in Stephen's salad  :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 16, 2010, 10:12:59 PM
Congratulations, Armin. Even though it wasn't the correct species it's near enough! My plant is Scorpiurus vermiculatus (Prickly Scorpion's Tail) which as far as I can see can only be separated by having single flowers, the seed pod being very similar (NB! vermiculatus = worm-like).

Yes, Graham got how they are used right too! I have read (but would love a proper reference) that the Victorians (and some more recent jokers too) were fond of practical jokes and would add various plant parts that resembled caterpillars, snails, worms etc to their salads (which might also include cucumber). I call them collectively Joke Plants. Another Joke plant I posted a picture of earlier is the Snail Medick (Medicago scutellata). Yet another that can be used is the Chinese Artichoke (bottom), but not ready at the same time as the others..

Glad you enjoyed it - I did ;D

Now, why doesn't anyone come to dinner anymore... ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 16, 2010, 10:45:00 PM
Stephen,
are your sure you have S. vermiculatus? ??? Literature on the 2 species is contrary. I've found a link with seed pictures in comparison

http://www.thysanotus-samenversand.de/contents/de/d40.html (http://www.thysanotus-samenversand.de/contents/de/d40.html)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 17, 2010, 09:28:23 AM
No, I'm not sure. This is the name that I received it as. However, I checked in a Mediterranean flora that had both and this said that there were only minor differences between vermiculatus and muricatus. In the Flora Italia site, vermiculatus is called Single-flowered Scorpiurus (as in my plant) (the drawing at the bottom of this page looks like my plant - http://luirig.altervista.org/flora/scorpiurus.htm).

The German site was very interesting - haven't seen these hairy caterpillars offered before as vegetables.  The seedpods shown have much thicker, not spiny seed pods. In fact, I've grown this same plant a couple of times in the past and looking at my notes I have received it as vermiculatus.

In conclusion, I'm confused...

Here's another picture I found showing both in a botanical garden together with Astragalus humosus at the bottom (I had noted S. vermiculatus and muricatus)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Martin Baxendale on August 17, 2010, 12:02:49 PM
Stephen, the photo you posted of the seed pods for the puzzle show two pods on a flower stem, so the plant you're growing can't be single-flowered. The pods look very like the photos of S.muricatus I found on google.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 17, 2010, 08:44:15 PM
Stephen,

I agree with Martin. Additional I found a good description of the two species.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 17, 2010, 10:00:42 PM
Many thanks for this. However, I'm still not convinced it's muricatus. First, looking at all my plants I see that there are 15 flower stems of which 12 are single-flowered or podded and 3 are doubles. This would point to vermiculatus in Armin's description. However, the pods are not in one plane which would suggest muricatus? A hybrid?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 17, 2010, 10:05:28 PM
 This was... and is, a great puzzle.... keeps on going, eh?!!  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on August 17, 2010, 10:17:19 PM
Yes, a puzzle within a puzzle!  I never thought I'd be bent over with magnifying glass checking for abruptly dilated tubercles when I started this, that's for sure  ;)

I do see an appendage on the end of some but not all tubercles which could be what is meant by abruptly dilated - shame Figure 1 referred to in the article isn't available free...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 22, 2010, 12:07:01 PM
Hi all ,

here is an new puzzle from me  ;D

...what is this ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on August 22, 2010, 12:43:51 PM
It looks remarkably like pieces of stalagmite or stalagtite. Calcium Carbonate.
But as a plant forum perhaps I am wrong.

Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 22, 2010, 01:10:58 PM
Fungus?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 22, 2010, 02:15:57 PM
Fossilised plant section?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on August 22, 2010, 02:39:16 PM
Fossilised plant section?

Robin - that would have been my next guess if my first was wrong.
Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on August 22, 2010, 04:55:23 PM
Just popped in since several days. Most of the week occupied by visitors in the house.
I think we should better ask first if it's a Macro picture  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 22, 2010, 05:07:45 PM
Just popped in since several days. Most of the week occupied by visitors in the house.
I think we should better ask first if it's a Macro picture  ::)

Possibly sitting on kitchen roll, Luit?   ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 22, 2010, 05:14:28 PM
Just popped in since several days. Most of the week occupied by visitors in the house.
I think we should better ask first if it's a Macro picture  ::)

Possibly sitting on kitchen roll, Luit?   ???
OH HO! You guys are sneaky.... never though of that..... could be  background of polystyrene (styrofoam) sheet, too, eh? Mmmmmm?...........
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 22, 2010, 05:32:58 PM
Hi all ,

It seems Graham is on the right track ....but we dont live in a cave  ;D ;D

Paddy : no fungus
Robin : mhhhhhh ...
Luit : it is no macro
Ranunculus : I dont understand you
Maggi : yes the backround is styrofoam

Hans 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 22, 2010, 06:12:03 PM
Looks a bit like the fossilised club mosses we see on the coal bings near Falkirk i.e. fossilised wood.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 22, 2010, 06:16:02 PM
Anthony :

no fossilised moss !
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: DaveM on August 22, 2010, 06:24:48 PM
How about rhizocretions - fossilised plant roots....... from a fossil soil.........
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 22, 2010, 06:37:21 PM
Dave : no fossilised plant roots
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 22, 2010, 06:48:06 PM
Hi all ,

It seems Graham is on the right track ....but we dont live in a cave  ;D ;D

Paddy : no fungus
Robin : mhhhhhh ...
Luit : it is no macro
Ranunculus : I dont understand you
Maggi : yes the backround is styrofoam
Hans 8)


So it could be a petrified piece of a plant - say a tuber or something like that - from a cellar or boat hut or.....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 22, 2010, 07:07:12 PM
Robin : no petrified piece of a plant
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 22, 2010, 07:19:18 PM
If Graham is on the right track  8)  and, you state, you don't live in a cave  ;D  and, you imply,   ;) this thing was found where you live; is it something wooden that has calcified?   ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 22, 2010, 07:28:41 PM
Robin :

I can found this things in my garden  ;D
it is not wood !

...it has something to do with my ground ....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 22, 2010, 07:29:43 PM
Tufa rock?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 22, 2010, 07:37:20 PM
no tufa
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 22, 2010, 07:44:23 PM
Hans, don't tell me you have truffles in your garden ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Calvin Becker on August 22, 2010, 07:45:41 PM
This way be way off but Hans, could they be fulgurites?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 22, 2010, 08:01:31 PM
Robin : sorry no truffes ...but not so far of us grows morel ( but we dont know the exactly place )

Calvin : no fulgurites
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: daveyp1970 on August 22, 2010, 08:07:53 PM
is it fossilised coral
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on August 22, 2010, 08:12:30 PM
If calcium carbonate is on the right track; do you have deposits of 'Travertine' in your garden?

Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 22, 2010, 08:35:16 PM
Dave : no coral

Graham : I have not Travertine ....but something what have to do with calcy ....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on August 22, 2010, 08:44:42 PM
Dave : no coral

Graham : I have not Travertine ....but something what have to do with calcy ....

Well my next guess would be Aragonite, but I could have to go through several more with calcium carbonate as their main constituent before I get it right. That is if it is a mineral deposit.
Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on August 22, 2010, 09:01:11 PM
How about rhizocretions - fossilised plant roots....... from a fossil soil.........

Or rhino excretions.....(Sorry, I'm no good at puzzles ???)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 22, 2010, 09:08:48 PM
Well Lesley, you could be forgiven for thinking along these lines as I thought it might be fossilised dinosaur bones  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on August 22, 2010, 09:21:41 PM
Rhino excretions makes you think of coprolite.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 22, 2010, 09:25:18 PM
Rhino excretions makes you think of coprolite.
I've been thinking that since the beginning, but didn't like to mention it....... :-[
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on August 22, 2010, 09:27:35 PM
WE mention it all the time as David's great grandfather was a coprolite digger in Cambridgeshire - a lot better paid than farm labourers apparently.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 22, 2010, 09:50:39 PM
You truly learn something new every day in this forum....
http://www.familytreeuk.co.uk/Newman/CoproliteDiggers.pdf


http://www.cambridgeshirehistory.com/People/coproliteindustry.html
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on August 22, 2010, 10:09:16 PM
Thanks for that first one Maggi, I hadn't found that in my original search some years ago. :-*
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 22, 2010, 10:32:41 PM
How about rhizocretions - fossilised plant roots....... from a fossil soil.........

Or rhino excretions.....(Sorry, I'm no good at puzzles ???)
Rhino excretions would be liquid and emanate from pores or the kidneys. Don't look like kidney stones to me?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 22, 2010, 10:46:34 PM
Sorry ...but it has nothing to do with any Dinosaurier .....

May be this puzzle is to difficould because we have here a very special ground ....

some of our german members should it know
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on August 23, 2010, 07:39:01 AM
Hi all ,
Ranunculus : I dont understand you

But I did..... :'(     ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 23, 2010, 08:02:41 AM
Hi all ,
Ranunculus : I dont understand you

But I did..... :'(     ;D ;D

That's amazing, Luit ... few people do!!!   ;D ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 23, 2010, 09:48:13 AM
OK - here is the solution for my puzzle :

In my area we have a Loess ground :

http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/L%C3%B6ss

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loess

this pieces from my pic are called here : Loesskindl ( Loess child ) or Loessmännchen ( little mens from Loess ) - thats are konretions

Always when I dig in our garden I find this pieces ....so my idea was to make a puzzle  ;D

Regards
Hans
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 23, 2010, 10:37:00 AM
Quote
Always when I dig in our garden I find this pieces ....so my idea was to make a puzzle
 

Hans, it was a brilliant idea - I for one have learnt such a lot on the journey to try and solve your puzzle!  I'm sure someone would have got there in the end and I do remember learning about Loess in geography years ago. 

So this is why you grow such amazing plants in your garden  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 23, 2010, 10:42:03 AM
Another excellent puzzle, Hans, thank you. We're learning a lot here as well as having fun.... the best of all worlds!  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 23, 2010, 11:49:34 AM
Hans,

you are disturbing ancient and long forgotten memories from geography classes when I was a child.

A very interesting puzzle.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on August 23, 2010, 01:07:03 PM
Well Hans,
Despite having done Geography and Geology to a high level at school and college I have never heard of Loess. Never heard of it or forgotten about it :-\ after all it was a long time ago. ::)
A good puzzle and one that had me searching through things I could remember and finding new things.

Well done.
Graham

Who has the next one?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 23, 2010, 02:12:15 PM
This one won't detain you long.

What connects these three 'walls'?   Only two tiny images.

A wall in the Gargano.
A wall in Alexandria, Virginia
Cornwall
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 23, 2010, 03:48:58 PM
The images are tiny for a purpose!   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 23, 2010, 04:14:40 PM
Thank you all for your interest for my puzzle !

If anybody needs some Loess ...no problem  ;D

Robin :
I'm not so happy with my ground ...it is very fertil - but I need alway a very good drainage !
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 23, 2010, 07:23:28 PM
Parietaria judaica?

An off-the-top-of-my-head guess.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 23, 2010, 07:49:37 PM
Oh  ::)  i thought it was something to do with the rock used for the walls and came up with a Karst link!  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 23, 2010, 08:11:34 PM
Sorry Paddy and Robin!  This is a typically silly Bookerism.  

A little bit of whimsy really ... I'm not searching for a plant name or a rock type ... I need the Cornish connection?

... But I now realise that you can't possibly guess one without actually seeing the others, so here are the Gargano and Alexandria images in full.

The correct answer will arrive within seconds ...   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on August 23, 2010, 08:15:43 PM
I can't see a pasty in either of them :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gail on August 23, 2010, 08:17:31 PM
The mice would enjoy corn?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 23, 2010, 08:21:44 PM
Getting warmer Gail ... :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on August 23, 2010, 08:38:42 PM
Mousehole a village in Cornwall

Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 23, 2010, 08:50:42 PM
Congratulations Graham!!!!


MOUSEHOLE, near PENZANCE, CORNWALL.

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on August 23, 2010, 08:56:03 PM
Hooray :D - got one at last ;D

Although I'm not sure I would have seen the mouse in the first photo had it not been for Gails suggestion.
Graham
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on August 23, 2010, 10:32:48 PM
Well that is amazing because my garden, and much of South Canterbury and Otago, is over yellow clay called loess. It's what makes the Yellow River yellow. And I DO FIND OCCASIONAL CHUNKS OF ROCKY STUFF LOOKING JUST LIKE THOSE IN THE PUZZLE. I didn't make the connection. :-[ But then, I did say I'm no good at puzzles. :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 23, 2010, 10:50:18 PM
Brilliant puzzles, all of 'em!  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Renate Brinkers on August 26, 2010, 08:45:05 PM
After the mice maybe too simple but I try: What´s this?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on August 26, 2010, 08:48:58 PM
oops
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Renate Brinkers on August 26, 2010, 08:50:13 PM
Hi Giles,

no, not an Aquilegia.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 26, 2010, 08:51:56 PM
could it be Eranthis ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 26, 2010, 08:52:42 PM
Paeony seed pod?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Renate Brinkers on August 26, 2010, 08:53:47 PM
Hans,

congratulations - it is Eranthis!

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 26, 2010, 08:58:25 PM
Ooops Renate  :o

Sorry  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 27, 2010, 09:31:11 AM
Renate, that Eranthis seed pod is so beautiful in shape and the interior design.  Quickly guessed by Hans but I'm really pleased to think about it  :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 27, 2010, 07:30:44 PM
Here is a new puzzle from me  ;D

who knows the name of this plant ?

To give a little information :
I made this pic before some weeks on a walk in Black Forrest ....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 27, 2010, 07:56:02 PM
Wild guess - nightshade?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 27, 2010, 07:57:39 PM
good idea Paddy !
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 27, 2010, 08:00:23 PM
How good? Atropa belladonna?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 27, 2010, 08:10:17 PM
 :'( :'( :'(

sigh !

You are right Paddy !

CONGRATULATION !
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 27, 2010, 08:28:23 PM
Yippee!

It's a plant I love, especially the fabulous red berries which will be coming on it shortly and the flowers are simply beautiful also. It grows very close to me here so that is how it was so familiar to me.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 27, 2010, 08:34:53 PM
Paddy 

I was shure that not so much people knows this plants ....it is really rare in my area ( I found it only 2 or 3 times in the wild ) ...and I know nobody who grow it in the garden !

Here is a ( bad ) pic from fruits and flowers ....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 27, 2010, 08:37:13 PM
Don't eat the berries!

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 27, 2010, 08:42:26 PM
Paddy ,

the german name for this plant is : Tollkirsche !

"toll" means crazy !!!

My idea was that the women here will know this plants ....in earlier times the women used this fruits to get bigger eyes ( = belladonna ) .....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 27, 2010, 09:22:11 PM
Well done Folks... you're getting these puzzles in record fast times!
Some very interesting subjects , too. 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 27, 2010, 09:56:36 PM
A puzzle and a challenge.

9.55PM here in Lancashire ... can we supply an answer by 10.15PM?   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gail on August 27, 2010, 09:59:19 PM
Fruit of a magnolia?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 27, 2010, 10:03:29 PM
You have over fifteen minutes to spare now Gail ... any good at song and dance?   ;D ;D ;D

Obviously TOO easy ... many congratulations.

MAGNOLIA SPRENGERI var. DIVA
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 27, 2010, 10:09:21 PM
Hurrah! Are there some quality gardeners around here or what?  8) 8)
 Well done Gail!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gail on August 27, 2010, 10:12:46 PM
Now if you had asked which species I would have been stumped...   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 27, 2010, 10:41:54 PM
A puzzle without a solution this time ... unless YOU know different?

This item was photographed in a beech wood in Lancashire this week ... about the size of a honeydew melon ... any suggestions please? (and the first bright spark who suggests 'a rotting honeydew melon' will get detention and lines).   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carlo on August 27, 2010, 10:50:50 PM
This from a man labelled "all butter and lard"?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 28, 2010, 04:01:38 PM
Is it one of the larger puff balls?

Here's one that's puzzling me. This field was a hay field and was ploughed very late spring and sown with what I thought was barley. It is mostly barley with some oats, but what are the purple flowers? There are two species.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on August 28, 2010, 07:55:56 PM
Scabious?

Thistle?

Any closer shots?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 28, 2010, 08:18:12 PM
Neither plant would appear to be found wild locally!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 28, 2010, 08:28:31 PM
Cliff,
no idea what yours is - moss with funghi?
Or a rotting hairball from an owl?

Anthony,
is it Phacelia? i.e. Phacelia tanacetifolia. It is often used as intercropping to improve soil conditions.
It is not winterhard and looks like an impurity in the barley seed.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 28, 2010, 09:23:49 PM
Yes Armin, that's one of the plants, but the other is not so visible in the photo. This is what wikipedia says: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phacelia_tanacetifolia
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 28, 2010, 10:03:53 PM
Anthony,
good, the second is maybe Nicandra physaloides?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on August 28, 2010, 10:59:48 PM
A rotting honeydew melon? (I'd happily be detained by you Cliff. ;D)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 28, 2010, 11:37:14 PM
Anthony,
good, the second is maybe Nicandra physaloides?

Not Nicandra Armin.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: alpines on August 28, 2010, 11:43:17 PM
Cliff....that's the sandwich I dropped 10 years ago. Glad you found it buddy. I'm starving !!!!!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: arillady on August 28, 2010, 11:56:41 PM
Cliff is it some sort of spider house?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 29, 2010, 05:22:02 AM
Cliff....that's the sandwich I dropped 10 years ago. Glad you found it buddy. I'm starving !!!!!!

All very creditable answers folks, apart from Alan's of course, who would sooner have ridden naked on an emaciated camel than drop a crumb of food ... !   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 29, 2010, 09:47:20 AM
That melon looks  knitted to me... ??? Isthat foam coming from the top?  :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on August 29, 2010, 03:20:06 PM
Is the foam a sort of yeast?  It does look like a stump puffball of some sort but I have never seen one with moss on it
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 29, 2010, 03:42:49 PM
Hi Robin,
I have to admit that I took this shot as an afterthought whilst on a woodland walk with my grandchildren ... to be honest I have never seen anything like it before, so any suggestions are very welcome.
It does look like a puffball but surely the moss wouldn't have had time to grow over it - it must have lifted up the thin mossy layer as it grew - and what about the foam-like substance - not, as one would expect, a powder spray of spores?  Very strange.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 29, 2010, 04:02:03 PM
The idea just struck me (how slow am I) to blow up the original image ... here are the results ...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Carlo on August 29, 2010, 04:16:16 PM
Looks like a wad of stuffing from a jacket. Have you determined whether it's organic or synthetic?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 29, 2010, 04:30:17 PM
Looks like a wad of stuffing from a jacket. Have you determined whether it's organic or synthetic?

Am I alone in suspecting a headless Kermit the frog dumped from a pram?   ::) ??? 8) :o ;D

I really wish I had time to return to the location to investigate!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on August 29, 2010, 09:56:55 PM
You mean you've put up this puzzle withouit knowing the answer yourself? ??? That's rude. ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 29, 2010, 10:22:54 PM
You mean you've put up this puzzle withouit knowing the answer yourself? ??? That's rude. ;D

Lesley, Lesley, Lesley ... this 'quandary' was initially introduced thus...

A puzzle without a solution this time ... unless YOU know different?

This item was photographed in a beech wood in Lancashire this week ... about the size of a honeydew melon ... any suggestions please?

Hence, no subterfuge ... no deception ... and absolutely no rudeness!   :D :D :-* :-*
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on August 29, 2010, 11:44:46 PM
My deepest apologies Cliff. Saw the word puzzle and probably didn't read or absorb the rest.  :-[ :-[ :-[Mea culpa, mea culpa, mea maxima culpa. With a smiley for smacked fingers, if Maggi can find one.

Would you like to try a small plant of Ran. verticillatus? The whole plant I mean, not the semi version. :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 30, 2010, 01:18:17 AM
You are forgiven for any past errors and totally absolved of all possible errors in a very long and incredibly happy future .............................
.............................
.............................   Yes please!!!!!    :P :P :P :P :P   ;D ;D ;D ;D

Please see the main picture caption on this link, Lesley???

http://www.alpinegarden-ulster.org.uk/Newsletter/Ulster%20Group%20Newsletter_2006.pdf
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lesley Cox on August 30, 2010, 02:47:50 AM
But don't you think that that one is SEMIverticillatus Cliff? The one you'll receive (if it arrives with my small plant order) will be the NZer verticillatus and yellow.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 30, 2010, 05:51:10 AM
But don't you think that that one is SEMIverticillatus Cliff? The one you'll receive (if it arrives with my small plant order) will be the NZer verticillatus and yellow.

My apologies,Lesley ... I was only teasing you, but it isn't easy to convey in a text message!

If you Google Ranunculus verticillatus, then the very first item refers to R. semiverticillatus being renamed as R. verticillatus - see below (quote):-

Cover Picture : Ranunculus verticillatus. Cerro La Hoja, Patagonia .... was Ranunculus semiverticillatus found at. La Hoya in both pink (cover picture).

I would ADORE the N.Z. plant if it proved possible please, but only if I can pay for it and post and packing please?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on August 30, 2010, 09:06:47 AM
We were at the old Four Seasons Nursery at Forncett on Saturday for a Hardy Plant Society Social.  I was amused by this which I am sure will be an easy puzzle for you :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 30, 2010, 10:57:25 AM
Quote
We were at the old Four Seasons Nursery at Forncett on Saturday for a Hardy Plant Society Social.  I was amused by this which I am sure will be an easy puzzle for you


Kermit the forg drat.... that should be FROG!!....... in a hairnet?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on August 30, 2010, 11:00:27 AM
Who is this forg Maggi?  and why would Kermit need a hairnet? Puzzles upon puzzles ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 30, 2010, 11:14:23 AM
Who is this forg Maggi?  and why would Kermit need a hairnet? Puzzles upon puzzles ;D

As a gift for Miss Piggy obviously, Brian ... forgs are known for their generosity!   :D


Are you sure that the image wasn't taken at Wimbledon, Brian?   ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on August 30, 2010, 11:45:23 AM
I wish the forgs had passed one of these on to me Cliff!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on August 30, 2010, 11:54:28 AM
Brian, these balls look like escaped plums?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 30, 2010, 12:21:12 PM
....or escaped tomatoes?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 30, 2010, 12:26:44 PM
A queasy Pamela Anderson in a string vest?   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 30, 2010, 12:46:12 PM
...or shaved gooseberries? ;D

no, no...only grapes ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on August 30, 2010, 12:56:22 PM
Of course you are right Armin, grapes escaping through the wall of the tunnel.  They did look funny.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 30, 2010, 01:01:35 PM
Brian,
I'm a bit surprised to see grapes growing so far north.
Since when are the grapes grown in your region?
How does the wine taste?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on August 30, 2010, 01:21:34 PM
Armin grapes have been grown in East Anglia since the Middle Ages, there are not many vineyards now, but the number are growing.  http://www.eastanglianwines.co.uk/index.htm

I understant the wine is quite light, (I don't drink) so I don't think the European vineyards need to worry - yet 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 30, 2010, 01:51:57 PM
This info for UK vineyards..
http://www.food.gov.uk/enforcement/sectorrules/winestandards/ukvineyards


You can even google a link to an "Aberdeen Vineyard" ..... but it is the name of a church group. :P


 I have read that the first commercial outdoor vineyard in Scotland is on the banks of Loch Tay in Perthshire, where they hoped to make a  Riesling wine.... but I cannot find any further information.
 I have taken calls from gardeners for the radio phone-in from further north-east in Scotland who are growing good vines (for grapes  to eat rather than make wine) - they have the root of the vines  in a glass house and the vines are trained outside - I was surprised  to learn that was successful further north than here.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on August 30, 2010, 01:54:24 PM
Brian,
I'm a bit surprised to see grapes growing so far north.
Since when are the grapes grown in your region?
How does the wine taste?

We're a bit further north than Brian and there is a commercial vineyard very close to us, one of the biggest vineyards in England (perhaps that's not saying much!).  Latitude about 55.5oN
http://www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk/show.php?show=home&page=home (http://www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk/show.php?show=home&page=home)
Wine is OK, but a bit expensive for what it is

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Mick McLoughlin on August 30, 2010, 05:58:07 PM
Ther's also a vineyard in 'last of the summer wine country'
http://www.holmfirthvineyard.com/
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on August 30, 2010, 08:23:32 PM
Wine in Holmfirth!! Good Lord what is the world coming too. In my young days in Holmfirth you were a cissy if you drank Mild. ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 30, 2010, 08:31:52 PM
Especially after ballet lessons, David!!   ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 30, 2010, 11:18:18 PM
Oh oh!
It seems I've closed another knowledge gap ??? ;D
Many thanks for the fine wine lectures, Brian, Maggi, Diane and Mick.

David, what is a cissy? ::)
Can't find a translation.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on August 30, 2010, 11:21:57 PM
Oh oh!
It seems I've closed another knowledge gap ??? ;D
Many thanks for the fine wine lectures, Brian, Maggi, Diane and Mick.

David, what is a cissy? ::)
Can't find a translation.

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/sissy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 30, 2010, 11:35:01 PM
Mark, many thanks for the link.
Cissy=sissy!
That's it what I thought.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on August 31, 2010, 07:47:21 PM
I'm afraid this one is definitely more Kermit the Frog, than Pamela Anderson....
A plant very well known for its foliage, but about to flower here.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 31, 2010, 08:11:28 PM
Giles :

I think it could be a fig  :D

Hans
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on August 31, 2010, 08:19:30 PM
Hans,
Sorry, no edible fruit from this one...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 31, 2010, 08:23:58 PM
Is the genus FICUS right ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on August 31, 2010, 08:33:09 PM
Sorry, no.
It's a Dutch introduction......
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 31, 2010, 08:34:57 PM
thanks Giles ...but no idea  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on August 31, 2010, 08:49:58 PM
Brickmaking? (not house building)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Oron Peri on August 31, 2010, 08:53:42 PM
C. sinensis maybe
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Giles on August 31, 2010, 09:07:18 PM
Indeed, Oron, a very well known foliage plant.  ;D (my favourite  8) )
Brought to Russia overland as tea bricks on camels.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on September 01, 2010, 11:28:39 AM
Nice one, Giles and Oron.

C. sinensis =
Camellia sinensis
picture .....
Franz Eugen Köhler, Köhler's Medizinal-Pflanzen 1897
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on September 07, 2010, 05:53:28 PM
It is well known that I am a complete sucker for any nurserymans description which says "as rare as hens teeth' or 'no one will guess what this is' so here is one of the latter, it stands at about 75cm and is probably six years old.  Not exactly a show stopper but an interesting plant from South America
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on September 07, 2010, 06:41:36 PM
It is well known that I am a complete sucker for any nurserymans description which says "as rare as hens teeth' or 'no one will guess what this is' so here is one of the latter, it stands at about 75cm and is probably six years old.  Not exactly a show stopper but an interesting plant from South America

Is it a Baccharis?  Baccharis rhomboidalis or magellenica perhaps?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on September 07, 2010, 09:25:18 PM
Indeed it is, well done Mark.  Grown from Plant world seed Baccharis 'Sea Foam':

Collected on our 1994 Chile Expedition (RB94142) and new to cultivation is this dwarf South American equivalent to a New Zealand olearia. A compact evergreen shrublet bearing neat, diminutive, toothed leathery leaves. In July countless small 'shaving-brush' flowers smother its dome, before they become 'snowballs', turning the entire plant white. No-one will guess what this is!

I bought it as I like olearia, but I have to say it is not a patch on them!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on September 07, 2010, 09:32:01 PM
Well done, McMark! It had me fooled.... not that that isn't fairly easy to do!  :-[

What I know about any of the groundsels could be written on the head of a very small pin. :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on September 07, 2010, 09:49:17 PM
What I know about any of the groundsels could be written on the head of a very small pin. :-X

Really, you are all knowing! It's amazing what they can write on the head of a very small pin these days ;):

http://www.internetwritingjournal.com/blog/1029081 (http://www.internetwritingjournal.com/blog/1029081)

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on September 07, 2010, 09:58:13 PM


Really, you are all knowing! It's amazing what they can write on the head of a very small pin these days ;):

http://www.internetwritingjournal.com/blog/1029081 (http://www.internetwritingjournal.com/blog/1029081)


Truly remarkable.... but I was thinking of using one of these........

[attach=1]
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on September 07, 2010, 10:01:46 PM
 :) A nano paint brush?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on September 07, 2010, 10:07:05 PM
Indeed it is, well done Mark.  Grown from Plant world seed Baccharis 'Sea Foam':

Collected on our 1994 Chile Expedition (RB94142) and new to cultivation is this dwarf South American equivalent to a New Zealand olearia. A compact evergreen shrublet bearing neat, diminutive, toothed leathery leaves. In July countless small 'shaving-brush' flowers smother its dome, before they become 'snowballs', turning the entire plant white. No-one will guess what this is!

I bought it as I like olearia, but I have to say it is not a patch on them!

There are a number of North American Baccharis species (20 or more), so I am familiar with the general "look and feel" of these odd plants, seen them at some of the US botanic gardens, such as Berry Botanic Garden in Portland, Oregon, USA.  For a brief period of a couple years (decades ago) I grew a Baccharis.  I've looked up Baccharis 'Sea Foam' and can find the various offerings, but none that tell me what species it might me (or possibly if it's a hybrid), but I will stick with the two species I guessed with.
Baccharis rhomboidalis
http://www.chileflora.com/Florachilena/FloraEnglish/HighResPages/EH0582.htm
Baccharis magellanica
http://www.chileflora.com/Florachilena/FloraEnglish/HighResPages/EH0091.htm

Here's a rather fantastic one from Arizona and other Southwestern USA States from Texas to California, Baccharis sarothroides:
http://www.fireflyforest.com/flowers/232/baccharis-sarothroides-desertbroom/
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on September 07, 2010, 10:17:00 PM
Wow! The Arizona one is a cracker!  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on September 07, 2010, 10:21:22 PM
Yes I agree with you there Maggi, I'd rather have given that one house room!  Mark the B.magallenica is listed as 30cm tall, mine is well over that so more likely to be one of the others - I note that there are 55 in Chile!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on September 07, 2010, 10:54:06 PM
Yes I agree with you there Maggi, I'd rather have given that one house room!  Mark the B.magallenica is listed as 30cm tall, mine is well over that so more likely to be one of the others - I note that there are 55 in Chile!!

The following site lists a couple Baccharis magellanica cultivars, one is listed as 1 meter tall in 8 years.  Maybe because the species is reported as growing from sea level to high elevation, there are some larger lowland forms too:
http://www.members.tripod.com/~Hatch_L/bacchar.html

But you're right, there are so many S. American species, it could be most anything. The species B. rhomboidalis has foliage that looks much your your plant.  However, I did finally find some references to a Baccharis pilularis ‘Sea Foam’, page 6, right-hand column.
http://www.cistus.com/pdf/Archival%20Plant%20List%202006.pdf

B. pilularis is a species from Western USA, although I'm not sure if it also grows down in South America; I suppose it is possible.
http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=BAPI

As an aside, it looks like B. magellanica makes a nice rock garden carpet, here's a listing from Siskiyou Rare Plant Nursery.
http://siskiyourareplantnursery.com/baccharismagellanicachristmasbush.aspx
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on September 07, 2010, 11:12:14 PM
Excellent detective work Mark, you are working overtime :D  As it is listed on Plant world's site as "Collected on our 1994 Chile Expedition" I would have thought that it was a species and perhaps the apellation 'Sea Foam' is more of a generic name, like 'Bottle Brush' - I can't see it being collected by them as a cultivar.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on September 08, 2010, 08:38:04 AM
Chief Detective McMark thanks for solving this puzzle, for which I hadn't a clue, and presenting the evidence so clearly.  I wonder could it be because I have no use for shaving brushes, being a shrub of the female variety?   ;D

I'm off the the Siskiyou Rare Plant Nursery you suggested to brush up on my Alpines as one of them is puzzling me - it is a fantastic place to find information  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on September 08, 2010, 12:20:24 PM
Mark I have just had this reply from Ray Brown:

"The baccharis I collected was unidentified, hence the silly name I applied to it.  There are lots of weedy ones but this is a bit more interesting as there are male and female plants to get seeds I think and only one is really attractive!  My bush is 15 year old now and still going at 3 ft high!"
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on September 08, 2010, 01:53:57 PM
Wasn't sure where to put this - Northern Hemisphere 2010 and Cook's Corner were other candidates as it a) shows what's flowering in my garden now and b) a recipe may well follow.

A little salad I put together at the weekend in connection with an internet gardening forum meet here in Trondheim at the weekend. Name 10 species in this picture and how many are there altogether in the salad?

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on September 08, 2010, 02:27:40 PM
Mark I have just had this reply from Ray Brown:

"The baccharis I collected was unidentified, hence the silly name I applied to it.  There are lots of weedy ones but this is a bit more interesting as there are male and female plants to get seeds I think and only one is really attractive!  My bush is 15 year old now and still going at 3 ft high!"

Thanks Brian for the follow-up info, that explains the mystery.  Unfortunately with the name given; 'Sea Foam', it is in duplicate with the unrelated North American Baccharis pilularis ‘Sea Foam’, thus some confusion.  Incidentally, when googling just the name 'Sea Foam' or 'Seafoam', it is really surprising just how many different genera and plant varieties have been given that name, no doubt many plants in flower conjuring images of foamy breaking surf :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on September 09, 2010, 07:24:54 AM

A little salad I put together at the weekend in connection with an internet gardening forum meet here in Trondheim at the weekend. Name 10 species in this picture and how many are there altogether in the salad?

Stephen, this salad looks wonderful!
I'll give it a try for a start:
Allium, Zinnia, Tropaeolum, Campanula, Borago, Solanum, Salvia, Hosta, Sedum, Hemerocallis, Potentilla, Malva, Chelidonium, Calendula, Fragaria, Brassica? and I believe seeing Zea. and beans.
There are more known plants but cannot remember names at the moment.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on September 09, 2010, 11:05:46 AM
Luit,
a very good proposal for Stephens mixed salad. I add Rubus (Raspberry / Cloudberry) and Vaccinium (Blueberry).
My guess 22 different species.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on September 09, 2010, 03:00:07 PM
Between you, you have exactly 11 correct genera and Luit got exactly 10 correct first time, well done! ( I suppose I can't expect correct names at the species level  :))

The correct ones are:

Allium - there are 11 species
Borago - 1 species
Brassica - 2 species
Calendula - 1 species
Hemerocallis - 3 species (citrina, altissima and fulva)
Hosta - 2 species (sieboldiana and montana)
Malva- 3 species
Phaseolus (beans) - 2 species (vulgaris and coccineus)
Rubus - 5 species (berries)
Solanum - 1 (tuberosum - cultivar Blue Congo)
Tropaeolum (2 species - majus and tuberosum)

Altogether there are flowers of 28 species to be seen....

I'll reveal the complete species list tomorrow (maybe) - feel free to suggest others and no. of species in the meantime  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on September 18, 2010, 10:39:08 PM
I've been given a book to read by a colleague. It is called "Glasgow Dreamer" by Ivor Cutler (I reckon he's a cousin on the Rev. I. M. Jolly ;)). The dedication inside the book reads: "To vowels, the lubrication that stops consonants from sticking together like boiled sweeties in a paper bag*

* example in Czech of what happens if you don't use them: strč prstskrz krk. (Trans: Stick the finger through the neck.)"

How do you pronounce "strč prstskrz krk"? :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on September 19, 2010, 10:16:12 AM
I've been given a book to read by a colleague. It is called "Glasgow Dreamer" by Ivor Cutler (I reckon he's a cousin on the Rev. I. M. Jolly ;)). The dedication inside the book reads: "To vowels, the lubrication that stops consonants from sticking together like boiled sweeties in a paper bag*

* example in Czech of what happens if you don't use them: strč prstskrz krk. (Trans: Stick the finger through the neck.)"

How do you pronounce "strč prstskrz krk"? :o

Ivor Cuttler is one of my all time favourites.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7O93jBTJSI
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on September 19, 2010, 10:34:25 AM
Me too - Ivor should be a national treasure "down there" - Life in a Scotch Sitting Room, Volume 2 essential listening. Remember listening to his sessions on the John Peel show in the early 70s. Never fails to bring a smile to my face....   
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on September 19, 2010, 11:09:44 AM
... Of the same ilk and stature as the magnificent Chic Murray ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CFgaNSJe_w
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on September 19, 2010, 07:03:33 PM
... Of the same ilk and stature as the magnificent Chic Murray ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CFgaNSJe_w

agreed, another favourite of mine. Why are the Scots so good at whimsy?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y82WdMot--U&feature=related
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on September 19, 2010, 07:33:49 PM
... Of the same ilk and stature as the magnificent Chic Murray ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CFgaNSJe_w

Why are the Scots so good at whimsy?


Peter's quite good as well!   ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Martinr on September 19, 2010, 08:24:33 PM


[/quote]

Peter's quite good as well!   ;)
[/quote]

Oh Lord! :-X :-X :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on October 20, 2010, 05:05:56 PM
I know what this is but do you?

If anyone wants to see the whole plant you'll have to wait for tomorrow
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on October 20, 2010, 06:42:20 PM
Looks like Dahlia for me Mark??
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on October 20, 2010, 10:35:27 PM
I see how you got that. The leaves are long and narrow and the plants is about 12 inches 30 cm high
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on October 20, 2010, 10:57:12 PM
Well Mark, during our trip the last few weeks I've seen many lovely single Dahlia (mostly species) in gardens.
They were all very good performers in autumn.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 20, 2010, 11:11:07 PM
Is it a species, Mark? That sounds a neat size.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on October 21, 2010, 09:13:56 AM
It's a rubbish photo above because the sun was so bright yesterday.

I would say everyone who has this plant weeds it out before it gets to any size
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on October 21, 2010, 01:28:01 PM
oops - the upper flower is 50cm above the ground
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: fleurbleue on October 21, 2010, 02:04:34 PM
Eriophyllum lanatum Mark ?  :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on October 21, 2010, 07:46:44 PM
Mark,
is it Nyger Guizotia abyssinica ?
Some seed spread in your garden from your bird feeder?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on October 21, 2010, 07:48:51 PM
You are good! Do you have it in your garden?

Grown for its oil in Africa, used as a flavour to curries in India and a bird seed in Europe and North America

Why is it referred to thistle seed in US?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on October 21, 2010, 08:32:14 PM
You are good! Do you have it in your garden?

Grown for its oil in Africa, used as a flavour to curries in India and a bird seed in Europe and North America

Why is it referred to thistle seed in US?

an interesting article:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guizotia_abyssinica
The seed, technically a fruit called an achene, is often sold as bird seed as it is a favourite of finches, especially Goldfinch and Greenfinch. In the bird seed market, Nyjer is often sold or referred to as thistle seed. This is a misnomer due to early marketing of the seed as "thistle" to take advantage of the finches' preference for thistle.

Never heard of Nyger before Armin posted in this thread, meets my quota to learn something new every day ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on October 21, 2010, 08:47:23 PM
Mark, I don't have it.

After having read 'weeds it out' I immediately thought it must be something left over from winter bird feeder...
The rest was 5 min 'googling' ;D
There are so many synonyms for Nyger...and I thought it was the correct english word.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on October 21, 2010, 08:50:42 PM

The rest was 5 min 'googling' ;D
There are so many synonyms for Nyger...and I thought it was the correct english word.

Yes, it is amazing how one can appear quasi-brilliant through quick googling ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 21, 2010, 09:03:31 PM
Well done, Armin!

Thanks for finding the explantion for the Thistle naming from your googling efforts, McMark, I too had wondered why it had that name.

I have had thousands of these plants germinate in the garden.... but I didn't recognise it because I have never let them get bigger than 1cm !!
When we tried having a Nyjer feeder to encourage more Goldfinches the spillage rate (because of all the other birds jostling the feeder so much to try to get at the seed that the stuff was pouring out everywhere!) was so bad and the germination rate so huge that we abandoned the project after a few months. I was having to clear little forrests of seedlings from the ground and from every trough and container near the feeding stations.  I swore at the time that I felt the germination rate must be the best known.... it certainly looked and felt like a success rate of several hundred percent!! I know the seed it tiny but it truly seemed as though the seed was sprouting ten fold!
Worst part was the Goldfinches weren't that interested!  ::) :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on October 21, 2010, 09:07:20 PM
I've only seen it spelt Niger Seed...

I grew it deliberately one year but the seed didn't mature...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on October 21, 2010, 09:14:40 PM
The wikipedia entry shows this as a plant of many names http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guizotia_abyssinica (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guizotia_abyssinica)

Further it states that "The Wild Bird Feeding Industry (WBFI) has trademarked the name Nyjer(R) so as not to confuse it with the less desirable thistle seed, and to get away from the name Niger, which means black and looks similar to a racial slur."

I apologize if my use of the word N***r disturbed anyone...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on October 21, 2010, 09:17:26 PM
I hate when I'm in the pet shop and someone asks for niger. As its an annual I'm going to let more grow in to flowering sized plants
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on October 21, 2010, 09:18:18 PM
McMark,
it is not important to have everything in the brain - you just have to know were you can find it ;D

Maggi,
I can feel with you! I like birds and I fed them during last winter season,too.
But the number of weeds germinated in spring in my raised beds was horrible.
Consequence - this winter I'll put my feeder station outside in one of the uncultivated gardens of my neighbourhood ::) ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 21, 2010, 09:21:33 PM
Stephen, as it has only one "g" it would be pronounced nigh(t) - jer, as pronounced in the River Niger. No problem.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 06, 2010, 01:58:58 AM
I was in St. John's, Newfoundland in mid-November. My hotel room overlooked the entrance to the harbour - circa 07:00. What on earth is under that tarp covered in huge tires?

What a rock garden you could have in that second photo.

Last photo -  Europe is off in the distance; taken very close to the most eastern point in North America.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ArnoldT on December 06, 2010, 03:24:47 AM
John:

Is that the Bay of Fundy.  Highest tidal change in the world, I believe.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on December 06, 2010, 07:21:15 AM
I was in St. John's, Newfoundland in mid-November. My hotel room overlooked the entrance to the harbour - circa 07:00. What on earth is under that tarp covered in huge tires?
johnw


That will be Todd's seed order awaiting delivery.   :D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 06, 2010, 12:01:27 PM
I was in St. John's, Newfoundland in mid-November. My hotel room overlooked the entrance to the harbour - circa 07:00. What on earth is under that tarp covered in huge tires?
johnw


That will be Todd's seed order awaiting delivery.   :D

A+ for that!

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 06, 2010, 12:03:22 PM
John:

Is that the Bay of Fundy.  Highest tidal change in the world, I believe.


Arnold  - The Bay of Fundy bordering NS and NB is an hour and forty minute plane trip to the west! That's the Atlantic off to the east.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ArnoldT on December 06, 2010, 04:14:46 PM
I was thinking of St. John, NB.  Spent a couple of weeks there years ago.

I think the folks are referred to as St. Johner's.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 06, 2010, 05:08:06 PM
I was thinking of St. John, NB.  Spent a couple of weeks there years ago.

I think the folks are referred to as St. Johner's.

A forgivable error.  You would be surprised how many people book flights to the wrong destination, a couple of years ago a whole team arrived in NB instead of Nfld. Here in NS we get Europeans landing in Sydney, Cape Breton instead of Oz; they are always amazed what a short flight it was and never question the small plane they board from Halifax to Sydney. :o

We have an office in Saint John and the staff goes crazy when I address envelopes St. John, very sensitive folks.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on December 06, 2010, 05:11:02 PM
maybe garbage (for landfill?) or some recycling material?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 06, 2010, 08:29:02 PM
maybe garbage (for landfill?) or some recycling material?

Sorry, neither of those.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Stephenb on December 06, 2010, 08:35:28 PM
Sand?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maren on December 06, 2010, 09:24:09 PM
Tyres? ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on December 06, 2010, 09:35:24 PM
Tyres? ;D ;D ;D

First rubber to you, Maren!   ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 06, 2010, 09:51:03 PM
Neither sand nor tyres.  And no not Maggi's winter's supply of chocolate.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: TheOnionMan on December 06, 2010, 10:15:43 PM
spam?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Martin Baxendale on December 06, 2010, 10:52:44 PM
Coal? No, that's too easy. Pod people...one of them looking just like you?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 07, 2010, 02:33:00 AM
Coal? No, that's too easy. Pod people...one of them looking just like you?

No, not coal but possibly the Pod people... :o

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on December 07, 2010, 02:35:54 AM
This, pile #2, is the City of St. John's supply of road salt for the winter.   I bet they'd sell some to the UK for a price.

johnw 
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on December 21, 2010, 11:17:26 PM
That doesnt look like it will go far
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on December 21, 2010, 11:20:32 PM
Why did this happen?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on December 21, 2010, 11:34:34 PM
Light refraction?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maren on December 21, 2010, 11:40:03 PM
Double exposure :P :P :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on December 22, 2010, 08:21:15 AM
Mark, Photograph taken through a window?
Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on December 22, 2010, 09:55:21 AM
I'm with Paddy on this one.
Anthony
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on December 22, 2010, 10:07:56 AM
I was chatting to Jo, from the forum, while watching the birds in the garden and suddenly noticed two suns. It's never happened before or maybe I have never looked at the right time. Somehow the sun doubled up because of the double glazing. It only worked on the downstairs window. The sun must have been reflected back by the inner glass on to the inside of the outer glass and I could see it.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on April 28, 2011, 05:46:06 PM
We haven't been here for a while so I though I would give it a go again.

What is this?

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Roma on April 28, 2011, 09:41:02 PM
Calceolaria ?uniflora
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on April 28, 2011, 09:47:37 PM
I was thinking maybe an orchid flower.... but I see where Roma gets her idea from......the photo is taken from a clever angle if it's correct.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on April 28, 2011, 10:11:44 PM
Well its close enough Roma.
Well done!

Calceolaria 'Walter Shrimpton'.

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Gail on April 28, 2011, 10:23:27 PM
Lovely picture Graham - a host of slightly alien choirboys.....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on April 28, 2011, 10:42:26 PM
Well done, Roma and good puzzle, Graham. The angle was a sneaky one!

 I wonder if that choir is singing at the Royal Wedding tomotrrow? Every five minutes on the radio they're speaking about it!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 28, 2011, 11:35:57 PM
Nice trough Graham.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on April 29, 2011, 12:39:01 PM
I think I've just spotted Paul the octopus? ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on April 29, 2011, 08:55:51 PM
Thanks Gail, Maggi and Anthony.
I always thought they were fascinating but never a choir. I will look at them differently now. They are all singing in harmony.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 11, 2011, 08:49:53 AM
Here's a puzzling tree. I don't know what the main tree is, but it reminds me of an ash, but it seems to have two hitchhikers - a pohutukawa (puzzling tree 3) which accounts for the aerial roots, but I cannot see where the other tree (puzzling tree 2 & 5) is rooted, except that its stem gets lost in the pohutukawa roots. (The orange berries belong to another tree.)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ashley on May 11, 2011, 01:09:16 PM
A Grevillea, maybe robusta?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 13, 2011, 07:41:38 AM
I'l buy that Ashley. Thanks.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on May 13, 2011, 07:42:48 AM
Often wondered what these things that fly over us were. Now I know! ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: annew on May 13, 2011, 02:49:23 PM
Not seen one before, Anthony? How did you get to NZ then?  :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 13, 2011, 02:54:46 PM
Not seen one before, Anthony? How did you get to NZ then?  :P
Paddled his own canoe?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on May 13, 2011, 06:28:42 PM
..... or walked on water ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on May 13, 2011, 06:32:03 PM
Not seen one before, Anthony? How did you get to NZ then?  :P
Paddled his own canoe?
..... or walked on water ;D

 Nah, he likes to do the former and, like most of us, only thinks he can do the latter.... ;D ;D ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on July 11, 2011, 02:09:02 PM
Here is a new puzzle from me  ;D

Who knows the name of this plant ?

Hans
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: daveyp1970 on July 11, 2011, 02:23:49 PM
 Dichromena colorata,stunning grass is it hardy Hans
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on July 11, 2011, 02:32:09 PM
...Davey ...the first part of your answer is right ( sigh ) - but not the second  :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: daveyp1970 on July 11, 2011, 03:42:58 PM
...Davey ...the first part of your answer is right ( sigh ) - but not the second  :P
Is it latifolia.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on July 11, 2011, 03:53:53 PM
Congratulation Davey !!!

here is a pic of the complete pot ....

Dichromena latifolia with Hypoestes
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 11, 2011, 04:11:58 PM
Quote
Dichromena latifolia with Hypoestes
An attractive combination, Hans, but a surprising one to me... I thought the Dichromena needed to be damp all the time?  :-\  The Hypoestes wants to be dry and warm, no?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on July 11, 2011, 04:23:36 PM
Maggi ,

I saw the same combination on this nursery where I have bought the Dichromena ...I will grow it as "anuelles" and I hope they will survive some time .
This was for me the first time that I have seen Dichromena ...maybe in UK is it more common ?

Hans 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 11, 2011, 04:28:28 PM
I don't think the Dichromena is common in the UK, Hans... I have only seen it in pictures from USA! :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on July 11, 2011, 04:42:22 PM
Maggi ,

I was really surprised how quick Davey knows the answer for my puzzle  :'(
So I have supposed it is easy aviable ....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on July 11, 2011, 06:05:15 PM
Drat, too busy re-potting to see this puzzle in time.  I saw a potful earlier this year and I believe the owner said they were newly available here, haven't come across it yet.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: daveyp1970 on July 11, 2011, 07:04:07 PM
i haven't seen it for sale here yet.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: alpines on July 17, 2011, 06:10:18 PM
Must be one of those days when I had nothing better to do......so for all those of a like mind today....have a guess at what this is. ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on July 17, 2011, 06:15:44 PM
My best is some sort of Gymnocalycium  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 17, 2011, 06:18:58 PM
I hope you're right Brian, because if those are critters with legs, I'm outta here!  :P :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: alpines on July 17, 2011, 06:58:26 PM
I should have known better than to post this when Brian & Ian are around.
OK Brian....which Gymnocalycium?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on July 17, 2011, 07:36:26 PM
No idea, happened to be one in a show we judged yesterday!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on July 17, 2011, 07:57:23 PM
Without a shadow of a doubt, these are spiders. Pay no attention to Brian; he's just spoofing.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on July 17, 2011, 08:10:32 PM
Without a shadow of a doubt, these are spiders. Pay no attention to Brian; he's just spoofing.

Paddy
I knew it!  [attach=1]
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on July 17, 2011, 09:18:01 PM
Are they Kentucky beard mites?   ;D

You would never have grown these in Blackley, Alan ... even with dear Sherba's assistance!!!

Greetings from Corvara in the BEAUTIFUL Dolomites!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: alpines on July 17, 2011, 10:41:47 PM
You would never have grown these in Blackley, Alan ... even with dear Sherba's assistance!!!

I'm not that sure I can grow them here yet Cliff  ;D
Brian......Gymocalycium calochlorum proliferum.....Well done!

Give our regards to Corvara Cliff...you lucky devil.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: alpines on July 17, 2011, 10:45:17 PM
I hope you're right Brian, because if those are critters with legs, I'm outta here!  :P :-X
Without a shadow of a doubt, these are spiders. Pay no attention to Brian; he's just spoofing.

Paddy

Maggi and Paddy (now THAT sounds like a good name for a folk group ;D)
Kentucky spiders are MUCH scarier than this. I should know, I've been bitten twice and it hurts like hell  :(
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on July 18, 2011, 12:14:07 AM
Gosh, I'd never have got that one!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on July 18, 2011, 09:44:57 AM
Quote
Brian......Gymocalycium calochlorum proliferum.....Well done!

Thankyou but it was a sheer fluke if we hadn't seen one the previous day and I had had to have a good look at it and mentally noted the name, apart from it being a cactus I would have had no clue whatsoever ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on July 18, 2011, 12:32:29 PM
I was looking for two eyes  :o  but was scared to look to close.
Well done Brian. I would have never got that one.

Anymore puzzles it's pouring of rain here and I am fed up.
Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on July 19, 2011, 10:03:59 AM
You have to be looking for more eyes than that Angie! 8) Insects have 5 and spiders from 4 to 8! :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on July 19, 2011, 11:43:35 AM

You have to be looking for more eyes than that Angie! 8) Insects have 5 and spiders from 4 to 8! :o

Anthony that's amazing, I have never looked at a spider that close up but the thought of all that eyes watching me scares me even more.

Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on July 19, 2011, 12:12:33 PM
You don't need to count them Angie. Just assume spider = 8 eyes and you will usually be correct. A very few have 6 or 4, but you are unlikely to see these, far less their eyes. Just look at the link to one of my favourite money spiders. http://www.galerie-insecte.org/galerie/walckenaeria_acuminata.html The male has its eyes on a wee periscope! 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on July 28, 2011, 03:15:46 AM
I have no answer for this one. Tonight we were out in the potting shed dividing bloodroots and happened to spy this mysterious entity growing on the edge of a large plastic pot.  The white exterior covers a gossamer brown interior which is almost dust-like and can easily be blown away with a gentle breath. The white is also on the underside of this and firmly attached to the pot.  The right side shows where we removed the exterior to peak inside. No insects in the vicinity aside from one small adult spider several centimetres below, showing little interest & just hanging out, one strand of its web was attached to this thing though that may be pure coincidence. Any ideas?

johnw
Title: Where is this?
Post by: Diane Clement on August 01, 2011, 11:26:08 PM
Who know where we went for our holidays? Not sure if the picture shows it too well, but both ends of this reservoir have a dam.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: arisaema on August 01, 2011, 11:36:12 PM
happened to spy this mysterious entity growing on the edge of a large plastic pot.

Dog vomit slime mold?
Title: Re: Where is this?
Post by: alpines on August 02, 2011, 12:41:39 AM
Who know where we went for our holidays? Not sure if the picture shows it too well, but both ends of this reservoir have a dam.
Bridlington?  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on August 02, 2011, 02:00:37 AM
happened to spy this mysterious entity growing on the edge of a large plastic pot.

Dog vomit slime mold?

But we don't have a dog. 

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 02, 2011, 02:30:21 AM
I suspect with this type of mould the dog is optional?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on August 02, 2011, 03:10:36 AM
Anthony - A quick google says "The size of this species can be very small (say a Jack Russell terrier who ran in circles too much) to very large (that Saint Bernard ate my burrito)."

"Must have been Fluffy from across the street"

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 02, 2011, 03:31:38 AM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuligo_septica
Title: Re: Where is this?
Post by: ranunculus on August 02, 2011, 06:51:52 AM
Who know where we went for our holidays? Not sure if the picture shows it too well, but both ends of this reservoir have a dam.

Tauernkrafwerke?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 02, 2011, 07:27:07 AM
That's easy for you to say, Cliff! ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 02, 2011, 07:36:54 AM
That's easy for you to say, Cliff! ::)

Not with these teeth it isn't, Anthony!   :D
They are also known as Kaprun dams, which is considerably easier to pronounce.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on August 02, 2011, 08:10:51 AM
Bridlington?  ;D  
Wrong, Mr Grainger (not even close  ;D  ;D )

Tauernkrafwerke?  
Wrong, Mr Booker, the dams at Kaprun are at the same end of the reservoir, these were at opposite ends.  But just for you, I'll give you another clue ..
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 02, 2011, 08:24:13 AM
So somewhere between Iceland and Spain? ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 02, 2011, 08:28:53 AM
Bridlington?  ;D  
Wrong, Mr Grainger (not even close  ;D  ;D )

Tauernkrafwerke?  
Wrong, Mr Booker, the dams at Kaprun are at the same end of the reservoir, these were at opposite ends.  But just for you, I'll give you another clue ..

Dam! Beautiful clue though!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on August 02, 2011, 09:08:20 AM
So somewhere between Iceland and Spain? ;D 

Yes, if you go the scenic route  ;D
Title: Re: Where is this?
Post by: Maggi Young on August 02, 2011, 09:34:23 AM
Who know where we went for our holidays? Not sure if the picture shows it too well, but both ends of this reservoir have a dam.

Quote
Dog vomit slime mold?
  Doesn't sound like a fun destination to me  :P

Quote
Tauernkrafwerke?
Why is it relevant what type of music Diane was listening to on her hols?  ::)

 Some days are more puzzling than others.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on August 02, 2011, 09:41:05 AM
 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 02, 2011, 09:55:39 AM
Diane ,

could it be the lakes of Covadongo ?

Hans
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on August 02, 2011, 06:01:32 PM
Diane ,
could it be the lakes of Covadongo ?  Hans 
No, Hans, no Ranunculus glacialis there  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 02, 2011, 06:26:20 PM
 ???.....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 02, 2011, 06:41:26 PM
???.....

Perhaps you have missed the intervening posts, Hans?  Diane posted another clue featuring a lovely image of the very beautiful Ranunculus glacialis.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hans J on August 02, 2011, 06:48:36 PM
Sorry Cliff ...but I have really no knowledge where this Ranunculus grow ....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on August 02, 2011, 07:27:26 PM
Sorry Cliff ...but I have really no knowledge where this Ranunculus grow .... 

Sorry, Hans, there's only room for one Ranuncuphile here  ;D
Now I know for a fact that there is at least one forumist who has been to this spot.  I'll give him that person chance to look, before increasing the clues ...
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Roma on August 02, 2011, 08:48:20 PM
Spot the birdie
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 02, 2011, 08:53:37 PM
Tree creeper very well camouflaged. 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Roma on August 02, 2011, 08:56:09 PM
That was quick, Anthony
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on August 02, 2011, 09:43:15 PM
Roma thats a super picture  8)

Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 14, 2011, 09:23:12 PM
what are these?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 14, 2011, 09:42:12 PM
Those are black knobbly things Mark.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 14, 2011, 09:51:25 PM
Anthony, you're so slow.... those are black SHINY knobbly things.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on August 14, 2011, 10:02:59 PM
A bumpy beetle  ::)

Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 14, 2011, 10:09:56 PM
When I first say these today I was fascinated.

Not a beetle but they are shiny and knobbly
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on August 14, 2011, 10:42:53 PM
what are these?

No idea but I wouldn't want to fall onto them when they start to rotate.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: daveyp1970 on August 14, 2011, 11:18:25 PM
what are these?
butterfly or moth eggs
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 15, 2011, 12:06:14 AM
no Davey but I see where you are coming from. Tomorrow I'll post a wider photo
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 15, 2011, 09:58:00 AM
more of the black, knobbly, shiney puzle
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on August 15, 2011, 10:14:14 AM
I tiny clue, please  ;D

Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 15, 2011, 10:34:48 AM
I tiny clue, please  ;D

Angie :)


From the lack of focus at the edges of the image, I think you have supplied your own clue, Angie!  Clever girl.

Another hint ... they are not cataract debris.  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 15, 2011, 11:09:01 AM
Angie tiny is the word. They are 4x4mm.

They are new to me this year but hope to have them every year now

Animal? Vegetable? Mineral? They are vegetable. Have children forgotten about this quiz?

This will confuse our European neighbours. Vegetable in this case means plant.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 15, 2011, 11:26:33 AM
Quote
They are vegetable.

Thank goodness for that.... I was thinking it was something with compound eyes!  :o :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 15, 2011, 11:28:02 AM
A blackberry on LSD? ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on August 15, 2011, 11:32:46 AM
That's it it's got to be a blackberry. How come I was thinking of something creepy.

Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 15, 2011, 11:36:36 AM
A blackberry on LSD? ;)

Anthony when you see the answer you will see that your guess is so close but not correct
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on August 15, 2011, 12:10:29 PM
Quote
They are vegetable.

Thank goodness for that.... I was thinking it was something with compound eyes!  :o :-X

As opposed to something with pounded eyes?   ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 15, 2011, 12:54:20 PM
Quote
They are vegetable.

Thank goodness for that.... I was thinking it was something with compound eyes!  :o :-X

As opposed to something with pounded eyes?   ;D
Oh no, even bruised I think I would recognise you, Cliff.  :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 15, 2011, 01:05:29 PM
it's an annual that appeared in my garden last year for the first time. It appeared again this year again. It's rare.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Richard Green on August 15, 2011, 01:16:38 PM
Pokeweed fruit?  (Phytolacca)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: daveyp1970 on August 15, 2011, 04:12:40 PM
Datura seed thorny apple
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 15, 2011, 06:37:39 PM
a sequence for you
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 15, 2011, 06:46:11 PM
I still haven't the faintest idea!  ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 15, 2011, 07:12:40 PM
Maggi this is why I'm posting photos. Tomorrow the whole thing in my hand and then as it is on the plant.

No one has noted that I said it's a rare plant
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 15, 2011, 07:26:19 PM
It's a great puzzle, that's for sure  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on August 15, 2011, 07:39:02 PM
Well I suppose as it's you Mark, it wouldn't be the Bat Plant by any chance?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 15, 2011, 07:44:15 PM
Well I suppose as it's you Mark, it wouldn't be the Bat Plant by any chance?
no.

It's a rare British native
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on August 15, 2011, 08:21:23 PM
Can't wait to find out. I have no idea.

Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 15, 2011, 10:52:15 PM
I'd like to think it was a black truffle. 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 15, 2011, 11:28:19 PM
?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 15, 2011, 11:49:18 PM
It's fabulous.... but I still don't know what it is!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 16, 2011, 12:32:24 AM
I peeled the outside to reveal the inside
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 16, 2011, 01:33:44 AM
Corn-cockle seeds?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 16, 2011, 10:56:50 AM
Corn-cockle seeds?
http://www.ars-grin.gov/npgs/images/sbml/Agrostemma_githago_nsh.jpg
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 16, 2011, 11:14:59 AM
Well done Anthony. What gave it away? Rare?

Maggi your link shows what must be very old seeds. I''ll post a photo later

Would anyone like some seeds?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 16, 2011, 11:38:28 AM
I've seen them before many years ago, but only twigged when you said you'd peeled the outside. Checked on line: http://www.flickriver.com/photos/14230388@N03/tags/seed/
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 16, 2011, 11:48:58 AM
in the pod
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: daveyp1970 on August 16, 2011, 12:18:36 PM
some sort of catchfly seed Mark
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 16, 2011, 12:21:49 PM
Davey, Anthony revealed the answer - Common Corncockle Agrostemma githago
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Richard Green on August 16, 2011, 01:33:53 PM
Corncockles have been almost entirely exterminated by modern weedkillers in the UK.

There used to be a colony in a purposely un-improved arable field at Weeting Heath National Nature Reserve in Norfolk which I knew in the 1980s, although I am not sure if it is still there.

However, I am glad to learn that it is still available to see in Hertfordshire at least - along with some other desperately rare cornfield "weeds".  See here: http://rdnhs.org.uk/blog/?p=869 (http://rdnhs.org.uk/blog/?p=869).
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 16, 2011, 01:47:41 PM
and here are the seeds out of the seed pod

Richard I guess we could become guerilla gardeners by sowing corncockle seeds where we see distubed ground
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 16, 2011, 01:52:09 PM
You're right, Mark, the ones in the link I gave were well and truly dried out!
They really are very attractive in your fresh state. The rounded knobbles and high shine were so unusual.
great puzzle!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 16, 2011, 02:24:26 PM
Last photo shows the seed pod changing from green to brown and just cracking open
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on August 16, 2011, 02:37:18 PM
Really good puzzle Mark, well done.  The seeds are amazing.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on August 16, 2011, 02:51:06 PM
Mark,
excellent puzzle - I had no idea... :o ;D! Indeed corncockles are rare today.

Still in my youth (end 60th) it was found regularly in the fields and we often made nice posies together with corn flowers, hollyhock and others.
I had grown them but lost it when I had to give up the garden 25 years ago. And I forgot how the seed looked like...

Richard,
I think it exterminated from the fields more by the use of 'trieur'(=devices used in grain mills who winnow/clean the grain from other seeds) and less of chemical weedkillers.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 16, 2011, 03:23:56 PM

Richard,
I think it exterminated from the fields more by the use of 'trieur'(=devices used in grain mills who winnow/clean the grain from other seeds) and less of chemical weedkillers.

 I think you are correct, Armin. The seed is poisonous so it was important to eradicate it from cereal crops.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on August 16, 2011, 07:17:12 PM
Never seen it or heard of it. Had us all puzzling for a while.

Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Richard Green on August 16, 2011, 09:07:50 PM
For whatever reason, it is a pity not to see the flowers around more often.

Funnily enough the seeds actually look dangerous in closeup with all those black, knobbly bumps all over them.  Reminds me of something nasty from "Dr Who".
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on August 16, 2011, 10:11:35 PM
I know what you mean about Dr Who... I had a similar thought myself  :-X


I see Chilterns list a few CornCockle forms:
http://www.chilternseeds.co.uk/list.php?type=search&value=Agrostemma+githago
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: jandals on August 16, 2011, 10:33:36 PM


Richard I guess we could become guerilla gardeners by sowing corncockle seeds where we see distubed ground
;D   You could become SCATTER , Sowing Corncockle Action Team Tempting Ecological Restoration
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 16, 2011, 11:02:54 PM
I like it Jandals
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on August 17, 2011, 02:30:18 AM
I grew it in the school's wild garden in the 1980s. I wonder if the seeds remain dormant until the ground is ploughed or disturbed again? Corn marigolds are like that. A new road lay out was built to the east of Stirling (near Cowie) and one year a ramp-shaped spoil heap running through a field was just nothing but corn marigolds. They hadn't been there the previous year and haven't been there since.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: mark smyth on August 17, 2011, 10:02:02 AM
Probably Anthony.

Chichorium has appeared on a verge near my house where a gas pipe was put in over the winter. It must be the same

Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on September 17, 2011, 01:36:28 PM
I don't think this will puzzle you for very long.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on September 17, 2011, 01:44:58 PM
I don't think this will puzzle you for very long.

Paddy



Of course it won't, Paddy... even I know that's a leaf........ :D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Pascal B on September 17, 2011, 01:56:02 PM
I don't think this will puzzle you for very long.

Paddy

Genus yes (my favorite), species no... ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Diane Clement on September 17, 2011, 02:27:36 PM
If Pascal doesn't know, then that's worrying,   ;D  but I'll have a try at Arisaema consanguineum
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Pascal B on September 17, 2011, 02:40:49 PM
It could be formosanum or consanguineum. The Chinese clone of consanguineum that has been selected by Ellen Hornig as "The Perfect Wave" and its descendants selected by Seneca Hills generally have broader leaflets, the variegated forms of formosanum usually have narrower leaflets and the plant Paddy shows can also be BSWJ3528 or one of its descendants.
If it is ex. Chen Yi it will be consanguineum but based on leaves only I can't tell.
So no, sorry Diane but nobody is perfect..... ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ArnoldT on September 17, 2011, 02:58:06 PM
Here's an example.

http://pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/ArisaemaSpeciesOne#consanguineum

Arnold
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Pascal B on September 17, 2011, 03:20:34 PM
Given that silver centered consanguineum is more widely cultivated than silver centered formosanum (known as "bicolorifolium") the guess of Diane probably was right but "The Perfect Wave" has mostly been propagated through seeds and although the descendants generally have some silver line in the leaves, the offspring is quite diverse. The Perfect Wave was one of the best silver centered forms that were imported from China though.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on September 17, 2011, 05:31:12 PM
I knew it wouldn't puzzle you for long. I have it as A. consanguineum 'Silver Centre' and find it not the best to increase in the garden and the foliage far more interesting than the flower.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Pascal B on September 17, 2011, 06:02:16 PM
That goes for most of this section Paddy. Although I collect and study Arisaema, most flowers of this section with the umbrella type leaves (section Sinarisaema) are rather boring. Often in green or greenish purple flowers, they become interesting again once the fruits start to get red.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hoy on September 25, 2011, 12:21:17 PM
An evergreen puzzle:
(Picture taken in my garden today)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hoy on September 27, 2011, 09:09:42 PM
Nobody knows, nobody dares or nobody worries. . .

Anyway, here are more: The plant is far, far away from home!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Brian Ellis on September 27, 2011, 09:45:27 PM
Is it a Wollemi pine?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: rob krejzl on September 27, 2011, 09:49:13 PM
Quote
Is it a Wollemi pine?

My guess too.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hoy on September 27, 2011, 09:56:58 PM
Is it a Wollemi pine?
Quote
Is it a Wollemi pine?

My guess too.

Yes, you are right ;) It is new to me and I wonder if anybody has any experience with it?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: rob krejzl on September 27, 2011, 10:03:30 PM
Can't help really. I swore off it when they appeared in garden centres over here - saw too many Araucarias crammed into English front gardens as a lad.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Hoy on September 27, 2011, 10:17:21 PM
Not many Wollemias here although there are some Araucarias ;) Some are really big too.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on October 13, 2011, 03:35:04 PM
Not really a puzzle but when I was taking a picture of a badger yesterday in the field I noticed this in the woods.
Sorry not a good picture, I wasnt focusing on it.
Hope you can see it.

Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 13, 2011, 05:40:51 PM
Crikey Angela, that looks like a bear making off  ........ ::) :o :o :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on October 13, 2011, 06:01:41 PM
Leo Sayer after a course of Grecian 2000?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 13, 2011, 06:09:29 PM
Hmmmm.... Mr Sayer is now an Australian Citizen, living in Sydney.... my money is on the bear..... ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on October 13, 2011, 06:43:16 PM
Hmmmm.... Mr Sayer is now an Australian Citizen, living in Sydney.... my money is on the bear..... ::)

So is Jason Donovan, but he keeps popping up creating a song and a dance!

By the way - in the current financial debacle should Grecian 2000 be called Grecian 276,000,000 and would it keep one in the black?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Armin on October 13, 2011, 06:46:52 PM
No, no, no  - it must be a Yeti!!! :o
Yeah!!! its existence is proofed now. ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on October 13, 2011, 07:05:15 PM
Well there are some really wild things up in the Aberdeenshire area ;) so a bear looks feasable, (but not possible). I thought it also looks like a gorilla charging at the camera.
Quite clearly I have no idea.  Not really a puzzle Angela :-\ - well its puzzling me and the 24 other people that have looked at it so far.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 13, 2011, 07:15:34 PM
A gorilla eh? I  hadn't thought of that... there are several local councillors who might fit the bill of a large hairy ape, but I understand gorillas to be rather sweet in the main, so I'd rule that out too.....
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Graham Catlow on October 13, 2011, 07:25:00 PM
Angie - is it a Newfoundland Dog :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on October 13, 2011, 08:34:18 PM
The only thing that gives me comfort is that it hasnt moved, probally just a bush but it just goes to show how you could make it into something.
If you don't hear from me, guess what  ;D

Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: jomowi on October 13, 2011, 09:20:49 PM
I was about to suggest it was the back end of a cow, Angie, but unlikely if you say it hasn't moved.  Have you been back to check it out? Is is the same wood you took me to when we went in search of native pine wood plants?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 13, 2011, 09:49:25 PM
"Has it moved?" " Not yeti!" 8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: johnw on October 13, 2011, 11:07:07 PM
Yes, you are right ;) It is new to me and I wonder if anybody has any experience with it?

The Wollemia was even being sold here in Nova Scotia.  It was touted as being very hardy based on absolutely nothing.  I saw a good-sized one badly winter damaged in the Bremen Botanical Gardens in 2010.  And that one was protected for the winter.  I think the low was -15c.

johnw
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on October 14, 2011, 11:09:42 AM
Maureen, yes it is in the wood that we had a walk in. I shall have a walk over and take a close up tomorrow.
About five years ago in the wood next to this one a ladies body lay there for over six months. It was a lady from the town ( kincorth ) that had just wanted to finish her life. The sad bit I thought was the children from the neighbouring house had found her. I can't imagine what it must have been like for those poor children.

Anthony brain still in tip top condition I see  ;)

Angie  :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 14, 2011, 10:48:50 PM
Here's a puzzle. This tree has pink leaves, and a customer tried to describe it to a sales person at a local garden centre yesterday, but could only get the answer "cherry tree - it's pink at this time of year". Clearly it's not as it's the leaves that are pink. This tree is about 30' tall.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: WimB on October 15, 2011, 06:27:46 AM
The leaves resemble those of a Rhus, don't they?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 15, 2011, 07:04:13 AM
........or Ailanthus?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: arisaema on October 15, 2011, 07:59:25 AM
Cedrela/Toona sinensis
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 15, 2011, 08:14:24 AM
Bingo! ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on October 15, 2011, 07:19:24 PM
Here is a close up of the picture I posted the other day, nothing scary just a tree root.
Angie  :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 18, 2011, 12:02:07 PM
I was speaking to friend, yesterday, who'd just returned from the US. They had visited Phoenix and flown to New York and were astounded to find the person sitting next to them had a small dog in their hand luggage! I think that takes the biscuit for stupidity, but I'm not quite sure where the stupidity lies? ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on October 18, 2011, 03:02:20 PM
I was speaking to friend, yesterday, who'd just returned from the US. They had visited Phoenix and flown to New York and were astounded to find the person sitting next to them had a small dog in their hand luggage! I think that takes the biscuit for stupidity, but I'm not quite sure where the stupidity lies? ???
Small dogs, usually under 8kgs in weight, are permitted in the cabin on quite a large number of airlines, it seems. There seem to be few American airlaines that forbid them on internal flights.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ranunculus on October 18, 2011, 03:08:33 PM
Remember Dalmation Airlines ... they were Corgi Registered!!!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: alpines on October 18, 2011, 04:42:06 PM
I think that takes the biscuit for stupidity,

Would that be a dog biscuit Anthony? ;D
Everyone knows that Americans.......and those who choose to live here......are barking mad anyway. ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on October 18, 2011, 09:06:00 PM
I think it begs belief! No thought given to other passengers.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 08, 2011, 10:44:25 PM
Last week at the weekly Flower Show we were  shown an object with the question if we knew what it is.  I admit that either me nor the other Committee members had an answer. Now I know what it is and thought I make it a puzzle item here.
I’m curious if anybody knows what it is….
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on November 08, 2011, 10:47:21 PM
Bracket fungus?

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 09, 2011, 12:26:30 AM
Coaliflower? ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on November 09, 2011, 12:29:39 AM
I've seen wood fungus like that, and also seedpods that resemble that (although there is usually a bit more of a "seam" where the two halves join).  Other than that, no closer identity.  ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: ChrisB on November 09, 2011, 09:55:02 AM
Lovely Carol
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 09, 2011, 10:04:59 AM
Need to see it from other angles.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: daveyp1970 on November 09, 2011, 10:31:39 AM
is it fossilized beech cotyledons.I am sure i have seen an African plant that resembles that but for my life can't think of the genus.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 09, 2011, 03:19:24 PM
As this Flower Show has the intention, that mostly bulbous plants or parts of them are shown here,
you’ll have to think a bit different.
And... this part is not dead at all  ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 09, 2011, 03:20:06 PM
Lovely Carol

 ???
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 09, 2011, 04:03:09 PM
As this Flower Show has the intention, that mostly bulbous plants or parts of them are shown here,
you’ll have to think a bit different.
And... this part is not dead at all  ;)
We don't know the scale of the item, of course.... but I'm thinking it is quite small.  ::)
The hole in the middle  suggests that there has been a stem arsing from that point.... so my guess is... some kind of Anemone corm/tuber?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 09, 2011, 06:39:37 PM
I'm sure you'll get Cyclamen spp. tubers as weird as this?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 09, 2011, 08:21:18 PM

We don't know the scale of the item, of course.... but I'm thinking it is quite small.  ::)
The hole in the middle  suggests that there has been a stem arsing from that point.... quote]

It is about 10 x 15 cms.
Maggi, you amaze me once more, getting rather close. But I doubt if you ever saw it  :-\
I can tell you that the flowers are small and greenish.
Here is a close up:
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 09, 2011, 08:29:51 PM
Luit, I'm sure I never saw the puzzle subject before... it's not the sort of thing one would forget!

I'm just going to fetch Ian, to show him.....

added some moments later......

.... well that didn't help much... he thinks some sort of ranunculaceae.... but that's a good as we  can get!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 09, 2011, 08:40:44 PM
This is  fun... got the BD thinking more.......he says there is a problem with anemones etc NOT having stems that go through the bulb (unlike Frits. for example - which is why I thought it was a 'lumpy underground storage organ'!) .... we still think it is a 'lumpy underground storage organ' of some kind...  can you hear the Craigton Cog Wheels whirring on this puzzle?  ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: daveyp1970 on November 09, 2011, 10:02:46 PM
Can anybody name the famous British Film that this building starred in.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 09, 2011, 10:38:04 PM
  can you hear the Craigton Cog Wheels whirring on this puzzle?  ;D
Needing some oil probably?  ;D

Maybe this is of help: some are edible and some grow in Europe and some in the tropics
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 09, 2011, 10:51:17 PM
  can you hear the Craigton Cog Wheels whirring on this puzzle?  ;D
Needing some oil probably?  ;D

Maybe this is of help: some are edible and some grow in Europe and some in the tropics


Maybe this is of help?  Errr..... no  :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on November 10, 2011, 12:38:54 AM
Luit,

Arisaema fits that clue, but I don't think that helps.   ;D  I'd also thought obscure truffle species, but they aren't bulbous/tuberous. ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: rob krejzl on November 10, 2011, 12:58:22 AM
Quote
the famous British Film that this building starred in.

Get Carter?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 10, 2011, 05:24:32 AM
Quote
the famous British Film that this building starred in.

Get Carter?
Yes, I'm sure he'd know!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: daveyp1970 on November 10, 2011, 08:19:05 AM
Well done Rob.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 10, 2011, 09:13:36 AM
Well done Rob.
I'm sure not many people knew that!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 10, 2011, 10:27:59 AM
Well done Rob.
I'm sure not many people knew that!
I'm prepared to say that I'm sure a LOT of people didn't know that! Never ceases to amze me what the Forumists know  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 11, 2011, 11:13:32 AM
Luit,

Arisaema fits that clue, but I don't think that helps.   ;D  I'd also thought obscure truffle species, but they aren't bulbous/tuberous. ::)
No Arisaema, Paul!

Obviously this puzzle seems to be too difficult. I’ll give it another try.
It is a climbing plant.
The tubers of many members of this genus are edible and grow in the tropics, though this particular one comes from Chile.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 11, 2011, 11:22:38 AM
Hmmm...... well, it might be a tropaelum.... not one we've seen, of course, or  perhaps a "dutchman's pipe" .... the name escapes me right now..... must be the damp......

I remember... Aristolochia ??


 edit to add..... But aren't Aristolochia poisonous?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 11, 2011, 11:42:19 AM
Okay.... let's get serious about this...... Chile, tuber....... edible....... must be Liliaceae, I think..... which brings us to Dioscorea .... but which one? Never seen any like this in real life.....  :-\
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 11, 2011, 11:44:25 AM
Only Dioscorea I've  seen have the caudex like elephant feet or fat tortoises.... but I know there are others ... and several in Chile........so  I'm going for Dioscorea... and Ian says he hasn't got a better suggestion!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: daveyp1970 on November 11, 2011, 12:03:57 PM
Could it be an ipomoea
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 11, 2011, 02:22:27 PM
Only Dioscorea I've  seen have the caudex like elephant feet or fat tortoises.... but I know there are others ... and several in Chile........so  I'm going for Dioscorea... and Ian says he hasn't got a better suggestion!
Good thinking Maggi.  8) 8) :-* It’s indeed a Dioscorea and in this case the tuber is of Dioscorea reticulata.
But very few people would have known which variety was meant  ::)

If necessary my next clue would have been “Yammii”  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 11, 2011, 03:24:43 PM
Aha!
So, this begs the question, is the tuber in the photograph an underground tuber or a "air potato" ?
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Pascal B on November 11, 2011, 07:52:24 PM

If necessary my next clue would have been “Yammii”  ;D ;D ;D


Then it is a good thing you said Chile first Luit as Dioscorea occur in many parts in the world so the species name would never have come out... I have eaten the local species in India and it is really enjoyable (if the accompanying curry is not too hot....). Great puzzle.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 12, 2011, 11:35:58 AM
Aha!
So, this begs the question, is the tuber in the photograph an underground tuber or a "air potato" ?
I was told that this tuber grows underground.

Don't know if this one is used as edible by locals, Pascal
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 12, 2011, 07:53:07 PM
It certainly does not LOOK very tasty...... :P :-X
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on November 14, 2011, 09:59:31 AM
Neither does a Truffle, Maggi, but think how sought after THEY are!!??  :o
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Anthony Darby on November 14, 2011, 10:04:01 AM
I bought some black truffle brie at the Saturday market on Picton Street in Howick. New Zealand made (www.overthemoondairy.co.nz). Not tried it yet, but there's no rush as it's good for another two months! ;D
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 14, 2011, 10:04:33 AM
Neither does a Truffle, Maggi, but think how sought after THEY are!!??  :o

Good point,Paul, good point.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on November 21, 2011, 07:40:08 PM
A great puzzle Luit....in relation to Anthony's comment I couldn't resist posting this snapshot of a black truffle from Piemonte taken at San Remo market, Italy, selling for 30 Euros - it was still there two weeks later looking slightly tired!  :P
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: David Nicholson on November 21, 2011, 07:41:23 PM
Nice to have you back posting Robin.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Maggi Young on November 21, 2011, 07:54:52 PM
Nice to have you back posting Robin.
It is indeed, Robin... we're pleased to hear from you... even with your tragic tale of the tired truffle...... ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paul T on November 21, 2011, 09:33:37 PM
Ah.... nice to see a fine example of alliteration, Maggi.....  "tragic tale of the tired truffle"..... Good points for that one. 8)

So Robin, no-one wanted to mortgage their house to pay for a piece of fungus then? ??? ;)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on November 21, 2011, 09:34:10 PM
Thanks David and Maggie for you welcome back...just amazing to have a connection that works!  In Italy everything is so full of drama and presentation of something special and one night we were invited to an evening meal at a fish restaurant by the sea - it was the night of the thunderstorms that hit Genova - the Mediterranean could have been the Atlantic with huge rollers thunder and lightening and everyone stayed at home except us as we had an arrangement with some Italians to celebrate with a speciality dish of Stockfish.  Not having eaten it before we asked where it came from and were told 'it's an Italian speciality'.....it was certainly delicious, perfumed and unique in flavour.  Now my puzzle is why is this an Italian speciality when it comes from Norway?  90% of Norwegian stockfish is sold in Italy. ::)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: angie on November 22, 2011, 08:54:30 AM
Nice to see you here again   :) hopefully you will have some nice pictures to show us of your summer.

Angie :)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on November 22, 2011, 09:12:41 AM
Hi Robin,

Lovely to have you posting again,

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on November 22, 2011, 11:50:38 AM
Thanks for your kind messages Angie and Paddy.  I do hope to find time to post more photos - its been a strange year for gardening but have just about managed to keep up.  My walks are so different without a dog but I'm getting used to it and the rewards in what one sees and finds are always enjoyable  :)  Hope your gardens are doing well.
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Paddy Tobin on November 22, 2011, 01:50:43 PM
Robin,

Looking forward to your walks, photographs and comments.

Paddy
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 22, 2011, 11:07:35 PM
Nice to see you here again Robin! :)

Quote
Looking forward to your walks, photographs and comments.

Paddy
So I do too  8)
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Ragged Robin on November 22, 2011, 11:18:34 PM
Thanks Luit, wil be back at Lisse soon!
Title: Re: Puzzles
Post by: Lvandelft on November 23, 2011, 10:12:56 PM
Thanks Luit, wil be back at Lisse soon!
Robin does this mean you will visit the Show? That would be a nice surprise :D
Just let me know? We just live 7 kms. from there!
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