Scottish Rock Garden Club Forum

General Subjects => Flowers and Foliage Now => Topic started by: WimB on May 01, 2012, 05:43:20 PM

Title: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 01, 2012, 05:43:20 PM
I'll open this months topic with some plants that were flowering here today:

Iris cristata x gracilipes
Pinguicula corsica
Pinguicula grandiflora
and Uvularia grandiflora
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 01, 2012, 06:57:54 PM
I always like to see Pinguiculas, don't know why they appeal so much.

Here the Uvularias are still just bronze coloured spikes rising up from the ground.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 01, 2012, 07:08:52 PM
I always like to see Pinguiculas, don't know why they appeal so much.

I love them a lot too...they are just very nice plants! Do you grow some too, Maggi?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 01, 2012, 07:25:55 PM
I don't any more, Wim . I used to grow quite a few, hardy ones and some ofthe tender ones that became available for a while here. One summmer that had some real summer weather, I lost them all by letting them fry in the heat.  :-[ :'(

All my own fault, I'm afraid.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 01, 2012, 08:08:39 PM
I don't any more, Wim . I used to grow quite a few, hardy ones and some ofthe tender ones that became available for a while here. One summmer that had some real summer weather, I lost them all by letting them fry in the heat.  :-[ :'(

All my own fault, I'm afraid.

You want some seeds of hardy ones?? I can share some in a month or so!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 01, 2012, 08:10:23 PM
That would be most welcome, Wim, thank you.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 01, 2012, 09:05:12 PM
That would be most welcome, Wim, thank you.

You're welcome! I've send you a PM.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: TheOnionMan on May 02, 2012, 02:03:15 AM
I'll open this months topic with some plants that were flowering here today:

Iris cristata x gracilipes


Wim, please tell me all about this Iris cross! What's the history of said cross.  Do you have a photo that shows the foliage and whole plant.  I'm trying to see the gracilipes influence, which I imagine would show more in the foliage.  I'm most curious, as I've read of people claiming they don't see any gracilipes influence and question the validity of the cross:
http://mailman.science.uu.nl/pipermail/alpine-l/2003-September/008863.html (http://mailman.science.uu.nl/pipermail/alpine-l/2003-September/008863.html)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Darren on May 02, 2012, 12:35:04 PM
Our best ever flowering of Daphne cneorum 'Velky Kosir'.  It is at the foot of a big D. tangutica which is also flowering well. Lots to sniff!

Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 02, 2012, 02:02:44 PM
Wim, please tell me all about this Iris cross! What's the history of said cross.  Do you have a photo that shows the foliage and whole plant.  I'm trying to see the gracilipes influence, which I imagine would show more in the foliage.  I'm most curious, as I've read of people claiming they don't see any gracilipes influence and question the validity of the cross:
http://mailman.science.uu.nl/pipermail/alpine-l/2003-September/008863.html (http://mailman.science.uu.nl/pipermail/alpine-l/2003-September/008863.html)

Mark,

I wish I could tell you all, but I know only little about this plant. ::) The person I got it from had bought it years ago from Ingwersen's Nursery.....I don't really see any gracilipes influence either, but maybe the cristata genes are very dominant. Here below some more pics. Let us know what you think!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 02, 2012, 02:26:16 PM
A visit to Cambridge Botanic Gardens yesterday.  Rather nice Protea in flower.  Unfortunately couldn't locate any labels. 




Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: TheOnionMan on May 02, 2012, 08:29:07 PM

Wim, it sure looks like straight I. cristata to me.  This weekend, both species will be in bloom, I'll look at mine carefully, to see if there's anything the slightest bit "gracilipes-like" there in your photos.  I think it's a nice cristata ;-)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 02, 2012, 11:02:16 PM
I agree with that Mark and Wim. Probably someone did a transfer of pollen and assumed the seedlings were of the cross which, in the event, didn't take and seed of only cristata was produced. There's nothing remotely gracilipes-like there.

We can assume nothing about seed. Once I collected seed in the wild, of Celmisia lyallii, a stiffly leaved native daisy. The resultant seedlings showed that as well as lyallii itself, there had been pollen transferred from at least 4 other celmisia species in the vicinity. There were two quite different grey-leaved seedlings, one round leaved and the other narrow and short like C. sessiliflora and yet another with fine, grass-like green leaves probably from C. gracilenta and another with quite furry foliage, especially underneath. All could be related to different species growing in the same area, and all these from a single seed head.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ashley on May 02, 2012, 11:53:41 PM
A visit to Cambridge Botanic Gardens yesterday. 

Stunning photos David.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 03, 2012, 12:10:01 AM
Thanks Ashley.  New camera so pleased with results so far.  Have a few more to process and post.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: TheOnionMan on May 03, 2012, 12:42:18 AM
David, when I responded to Wim about the Iris identification, I was just doing a "quick sneak forum visit" while at work; of course I should have been working, so I skipped over enlarging your photos and taking any more time than necessary.  Now that I've had a few moments to study them, I second Ashley's response of STUNNING photos, the detail in those Protea blooms is fantastic. 
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Luc Gilgemyn on May 03, 2012, 08:15:50 AM
Lots in flower at the moment : some eye catchers.

1) Phlox subulata "Bavaria"
2) Anemone obtusiloba "Pradesh"
3) Viola delphinanta x cazorlenzis
4) Erinus alpinus - self seeds in the nicest spots
5) Oxalis x "Ute" - first flower of the season
6) Pulsatilla rubra ssp hispanica - as good as black
7) Ramonda nathaliae
8 ) Veronica gentianoïdes contrasting with the neighbours.
9 - 10) Part of the front rock garden
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Tim Ingram on May 03, 2012, 08:36:56 AM
Wow Luc, that pulsatilla is something else - wonderful colour! And what is the magnificent cushion plant? Arenaria?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Brian Ellis on May 03, 2012, 09:05:42 AM
That pulsatilla is simply sumptious ;)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Brian Ellis on May 03, 2012, 09:19:48 AM
A visit to Cambridge Botanic Gardens yesterday.  Rather nice Protea in flower. 

Here's the centre taken through the window of the glasshouse - as you can see this one was squashed against the frame.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 03, 2012, 10:05:59 AM
Luc,

love the Pradesh. But where did you hide that black Pulsatilla  ;) , it's incredible!!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 03, 2012, 10:52:28 AM
A few more from Cambridge Botanic Garden. (hopefully the labels were correct)

1. Iris germanica var. florentina
2. Leucocoryne 'Blue Ocean'
3. Tulipa ferganica
4. Bulbine bulbosa - Native Leek (Australia)
5. Moraea  villosa
6. Trillium albidium
7. Podophyllum hexandrum 'Royale'
8. Dioon edule - the Chesnut dioon
9. Strongylodon macrobotrys  -  Jade Vine
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 03, 2012, 11:08:18 AM
And finally

1. Serapias vomeraces
2. Zygopetalum 'Elder Park'
3. Cattleya hybrid
4. Cymbidium 'Sandridge Torch'
5. Sarracenia 'Brooks Hybrid'
6. Cymbidium 'Mavourneen Jester'
7. Cymbidium 'Vieux Rose Dell Park'
8. Encyclla 'Octopussy'
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 03, 2012, 11:12:09 AM
Can't say I ever saw any "problem" with your "old" camera, David, but these photos are just lovely. It is a grey day here, so the bright colours and exotic flowers are especially welcome.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 03, 2012, 11:17:49 AM
Can't say I ever saw any "problem" with your "old" camera, David, but these photos are just lovely. It is a grey day here, so the bright colours and exotic flowers are especially welcome.

More resolution Maggie so even better detail (I hope) and many more focusing points.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 03, 2012, 11:38:08 AM
I think you're right, David.... grateful to see the results. The willingness of Forumists to share  with others is a great delight.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Gerdk on May 03, 2012, 03:49:54 PM
Lots in flower at the moment : some eye catchers.

Lots in flower at the moment : some eye catchers.
3) Viola delphinanta x cazorlenzis

All plants shown are great, of course - but please let me know something about the no. 3 cross. Was
it your own hybridisation? It's the first time I heard about it.

Gerd
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Luc Gilgemyn on May 03, 2012, 04:50:25 PM
All plants shown are great, of course - but please let me know something about the no. 3 cross. Was
it your own hybridisation? It's the first time I heard about it.

Gerd

Hi Gerd !  I'm afraid it's not one of my own hybridisation - i bought the plant from  Robin White (Blackthorn Nurseries) at the AGS show in Kent !
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: fredg on May 03, 2012, 05:11:54 PM
I'll open this months topic with some plants that were flowering here today:

Iris cristata x gracilipes
Pinguicula corsica
Pinguicula grandiflora
and Uvularia grandiflora

Interesting Pinguicula corsica Wim.
This is an old flower on one of mine ( the rest are still in bud).

I would be interested in exchanging gemmae in autumn  ;D
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Diane Clement on May 03, 2012, 05:34:29 PM
Hi Gerd !  I'm afraid it's not one of my own hybridisation - i bought the plant from  Robin White (Blackthorn Nurseries) at the AGS show in Kent !

And click below for a picture by Jon Evans of Robin's splendid plant last week at Midland show, where it won the Midland Challenge cup for the best plant in a 19cm pot
Viola delphinantha x cazorlensis (http://www.alpinegardensociety.net/shows/results/shows2012/shows/midland/images/Jon_Evans/sizedviola-delphinantha-x-cazorlensis-BLA06-exh-robin-white-Midland-Challenge-Cup-4819.jpg.html)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Mike Ireland on May 03, 2012, 06:10:39 PM
Lovely day here yesterday, bloomin cold today though, thick jumper & a big coat day.

Flowering at the moment.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 03, 2012, 07:00:55 PM
I see you're not having any trouble getting flowers on your Asperula suberosa or Tropaeolum tricolor, then, Mike   :o ;)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: krisderaeymaeker on May 03, 2012, 07:05:52 PM
Lovely day here yesterday, bloomin cold today though, thick jumper & a big coat day.
Flowering at the moment.

Wow ,what a wonderful display . Very good Asperula Mike !
Here first time flowering in the garden (had some flowers before in pots ) : Ranunculus seguieri.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: krisderaeymaeker on May 03, 2012, 07:24:08 PM


Here also flowering : Androsace villosa subsp. congesta 
Almost in flower : Pulsatilla campanella
And a late flower on Callianthemum kernerianum
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ChrisB on May 03, 2012, 07:51:06 PM
Few bits in my garden today.  The adonis is from seed Magnar sent me a few years back.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: krisderaeymaeker on May 03, 2012, 07:53:49 PM
Few bits in my garden today.  The adonis is from seed Magnar sent me a few years back.

I like the Adonis Chris !
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ChrisB on May 03, 2012, 07:55:10 PM
I'm so pleased with it.  Took 12 months to germinate the seed, but its never looked back since.  Does much better in the ground than when I grew it in a pot though.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David Nicholson on May 03, 2012, 08:05:16 PM
It does me no good at all reading this thread. All the beautiful stuff I ought to be growing and where am I going to find the room?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ChrisB on May 03, 2012, 08:08:31 PM
Dig up the lawn ???
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 03, 2012, 08:13:55 PM
re-inforce the garage roof......  ???
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David Nicholson on May 03, 2012, 08:25:18 PM
Dig up the lawn ???

Done, well more or less anyway.

 <<Quote>> re-inforce the garage roof.

If only it wasn't a pitched roof!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 03, 2012, 08:30:24 PM
re-inforce the garage roof......  ???

 Okay, replace the garage roof......
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David Nicholson on May 03, 2012, 08:44:30 PM
If I wanted to build a school at the end of the road using completely different buiding materials to any of the surrounding houses , and in a completely different style to the rest of the estate I'd get planning permission. If I wanted to alter the pitch of my garage roof........ nah!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ChrisB on May 03, 2012, 08:47:59 PM
Shoot the planners :o
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 03, 2012, 08:54:33 PM
Shoot the planners :o
Always a temptation, Christine. Though occasionally the planners get it right only for the councillors to mess it up...... :-X :P
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 03, 2012, 08:56:26 PM
Here first time flowering in the garden (had some flowers before in pots ) : Ranunculus seguieri.

Superb, Kris! Love that Ranunculus!!!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Mike Ireland on May 03, 2012, 09:27:25 PM
Kris the Ranunculus seguieri are wonderful.  Not one that appears to be around so often, must search it out.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: krisderaeymaeker on May 03, 2012, 09:40:59 PM
Kris the Ranunculus seguieri are wonderful.  Not one that appears to be around so often, must search it out.

Thanks Mike ! Could find this one some years ago at Gerd Stopp's nursery . 
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: krisderaeymaeker on May 03, 2012, 09:42:53 PM
Superb, Kris! Love that Ranunculus!!!

Thanks Wim , I hope that it grows well for the next years . 
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 03, 2012, 09:43:42 PM
Thanks Wim , I hope that it grows well for the next years .

It's in very capable hands, so I'm sure it will!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lampwick on May 04, 2012, 07:29:36 AM
We have had rain, rain and more rain.
I haven’t been able to get in the garden much and the few days we have had a bit of sunshine I was other places. :-\

I can’t compete with the great pictures which have been put up recently.
Mike; That Asperula suberosa is magnificent, a real “show-stopper”, is it under cover?

Well folks, here is my meagre effort. More foliage than flowers!

Photos taken over the last three days.

Anemone nemorosa 'Robinsoniana'
Berberis x stenophylla 'Corallina Compacta'
Gaultheria (Pernettya) mucronata
Hebe pinguifolia 'Pagei'
Hebe 'Pink Elephant'
Hebe 'Silver Dollar'
Leucogenes Leontopodium
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Gerdk on May 04, 2012, 08:50:58 AM
Diane + Luc,
Thank you for the additional information. The delphinantha x carzorlensis cross must be an extraordinary plant - according the pics it has a whole lot of hybrid vigour.
Luc, I hope you'll inform us about the future behaviour of your gem.

Gerd
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Zdenek on May 04, 2012, 10:03:29 AM
Androsace ciliata
Callianthemum anemonoides
Ornithogalum sibthorpii
Ranunculus hybridus
Saxifraga sempervivum
Trollius laxus
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Luc Gilgemyn on May 04, 2012, 03:58:32 PM
Diane + Luc,
Thank you for the additional information. The delphinantha x carzorlensis cross must be an extraordinary plant - according the pics it has a whole lot of hybrid vigour.
Luc, I hope you'll inform us about the future behaviour of your gem.

Gerd

Will do Gerd !  ;)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Mike Ireland on May 04, 2012, 07:39:26 PM
John
The asperula suberosa posted is growing in an unheated/open sided greenhouse.
My original plant, bought from Bob Potterton over 30 years ago is still going strong in a large piece of tufa which has always been outside in the garden.
It appears as a brownish 'clump' of tangled soft stems throughout the winter but always comes back into life,  (as Bob Potterton used to say, "like a good doer")
Photo attached from a couple of years ago.  In the garden it is again just coming into bud.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: brianw on May 04, 2012, 09:04:24 PM
I should have some P. grandiflora seed available soon if anyone wants some. Just a few pods from 1 early plant. My main pot with several plants is not showing any buds yet. An odd year for sure. I grow most of mine frost free as I would rather have the wet trays and air in the frost free house than in with the alpines in winter and spring.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: olegKon on May 04, 2012, 09:11:34 PM
Spring is progressing
1. Sangvinaria canadensis Multiplex
2. Pulsatilla alpina
3.Jeffersonia dubia
4. Dicentra cuccularia "Pink Punk"
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 04, 2012, 09:13:55 PM
Oleg, how good it is to see how fast the plants are moving after your snow has gone.
Your Jeffersonia is much nicer than ours, I might add  - we hope that the babies from your seed will take after their parent! 8)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Tim Ingram on May 05, 2012, 08:57:25 AM
Wonderful to see so many plants. The Asperula has never grown so well for me so I shall now try it in tufa - it is one of the most beautiful alpines in flower, so fragile looking and yet so exquisite. Jeffersonia dubia really is fine!

These three plants are to do with anticipation on different scales in the garden. Yucca whipplei has been throwing up a flower spike for a couple of weeks now and is showing signs of the floral structure to come. It is still quite a young plant that I hadn't expected to flower for some time yet. Amsonia tabernaemontana is one of my favourite perennials and can have these dramatic dark shoots when it first emerges in the spring. A slow plant to establish but long lived and tidy in habit and with great autumn colour. The starry soft-blue flowers are delightful. And finally Edraianthus serpyllifolius. I haven't grown this for long but the flower buds really stand out - one of a fine genus which I have learnt more of through the Forum.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Tim Ingram on May 05, 2012, 09:03:39 AM
I missed out the description of the Erythronium! This is a hybrid that came from Wol and Sue Staines at Glen Chantry and has done very well in semi-shade under dwarf apples (probably helped by liberal supplies of good home made compost). I am not sure of the parentage.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 05, 2012, 10:47:21 AM
The Erythronium is likely a tuolumnense x revolutum ..... though it might be the reverse cross.

That Yucca is growing like a rocket, wonderful detail to it... like a giant asparagus spear.
Great fun to have plants which one can really just sit and watch them grow, isn't it?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Mike Ireland on May 05, 2012, 10:54:40 AM
Tim
I could never keep the Asperuls suberosa in a pot, no matter how hard I tried.
The tufa was a last desperate effort to grow what I consider a wonderful looking plant, it worked well.
I now say I do not grow the plant, the tufa does it for me.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Melvyn Jope on May 05, 2012, 09:20:28 PM
Checking my plants of Anemone trifolia today I noticed one has leaves with attractive markings, I thought they always had plain green leaves?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lampwick on May 05, 2012, 10:15:53 PM
Tim
I could never keep the Asperuls suberosa in a pot, no matter how hard I tried.
The tufa was a last desperate effort to grow what I consider a wonderful looking plant, it worked well.
I now say I do not grow the plant, the tufa does it for me.

Hi Tim,
I would definitely place Asperula suberosa in my list of top ten favourite alpine plants. It was one of the very first “choice” alpines I bought and arrived in a parcel with several other choice alpines from C. G. Hollett’s Nursery in Sedbergh, Cumbria. That was in1971.

Up until viewing your superb plant which you posted on May 03, the finest plants of A. suberosa I had ever seen growing in the open garden was at the Dower House of Boughton House in Northamptonshire; the home of the late Valerie Finnis. I will now have to amend my above statement Tim. Bravo!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: annew on May 05, 2012, 10:52:57 PM
Checking my plants of Anemone trifolia today I noticed one has leaves with attractive markings, I thought they always had plain green leaves?
They do! That's really special, Melvyn.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 05, 2012, 11:13:31 PM
David and Brian, I think your pink protea is the King Protea, P. cynaroides. It grows in Dunedin but not really happily, more a plant for Anthony's Auckland garden.

After seeing the foliage on Luc's Viola cross, I have real hopes that the tiny seedling which appeared a year ago, and after 5 years, in a pot of 5 seeds of V. delphinantha from Pilous, actually IS V. delphinantha. It gradually grew longer, to about 3cms with sparse leaves along it and very lax, but continued green so I put it outside about 6 months ago and the stem has died back now but there is a tiny tuft of green right at the base. I'll be keeping a close watch over the winter. :) I didn't throw it out ages ago only because it wasn't a weed I instantly recognised and believe me, I recognise most weeds. ::)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: johnw on May 06, 2012, 02:52:23 AM
Magnolia 'Galaxy' at Philip's former garden.

johnw
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 06, 2012, 06:33:50 AM
He'll be wishing he'd taken it with him. :D
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: YT on May 06, 2012, 09:32:01 AM
Viola grayi, albino form :)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ChrisB on May 06, 2012, 12:31:57 PM
What a lovely viola!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Gerdk on May 06, 2012, 12:38:54 PM
What a lovely viola!


Yes, it is!  This species (the blue flowering form) is one of the few Japanese violets which did well in my climate.

Gerd
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Mike Ireland on May 06, 2012, 08:12:08 PM
Nearly lost this Daphne x burkwoodii Somerset variegata two years ago when the heavy snow split the trunk right down to ground level.
Amazing what wooden props and plenty of silicon sealant can do.  Now fully recovered & as good as ever.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Luc Gilgemyn on May 06, 2012, 08:21:52 PM
Wonderful shrub Mike !!!
Love the Viola YT !!  :D

Some more in flower here :

1 Androsace studiosorum "Doksa" - out in the garden starting flowering
2 Androsace studiosorum in full swing
3 Asperula boissieri looking quite promising
4 Dicentra "King of Hearts" starting its' endless flowering period - well.. that is until frost comes in Autumn...  :P
5 Erigeron scopulina nestling between rocks - a shame the colour isn't a bit more attractive - this would make it a top alpine..
6 first flower on Oxalis "Ute"
7 Ramonda nathaliae at its' best
8 Jankemonda vandemii flowering for the first time !  :D
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 06, 2012, 09:41:39 PM
Superb Viola, Tatsuo!  :)

Love the Jankaemonda, Luc!  :)

Some plants in flower in my garden:

Arisaema engleri
Iris iberica subsp lycotis
Iris 'Snugglebug'
Paris sp.
Shortia soldanelloides var. magna
Shortia soldanelloides var. soldanelloides
Trillium luteum
Trillium sulcatum
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: cohan on May 07, 2012, 06:57:55 PM
My first Crocus! (actually first of the year, and maybe the first I've grown, can't remember if I had any as a teen in my previous outdoor gardening life!).
I just planted these last fall, and they were so slow (winter snow has been off the bed probably around a month, though there were several snowfalls after that) and there have been leaves coming for at least a couple of weeks...I was thinking there would be no flowers this year   ::) Suddenly yesterday there was this flower, and now I can see there are more coming..
Mixed cheap bag of C vernus and flavus...
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: hadacekf on May 07, 2012, 07:37:10 PM
Wonderful shrub Mike !!!
Love the Viola YT !!  :D

Some more in flower here :

1 Androsace studiosorum "Doksa" - out in the garden starting flowering
2 Androsace studiosorum in full swing
3 Asperula boissieri looking quite promising
4 Dicentra "King of Hearts" starting its' endless flowering period - well.. that is until frost comes in Autumn...  :P
5 Erigeron scopulina nestling between rocks - a shame the colour isn't a bit more attractive - this would make it a top alpine..
6 first flower on Oxalis "Ute"
7 Ramonda nathaliae at its' best
8 Jankemonda vandemii flowering for the first time !  :D


Superb plants and pictures]
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: fredg on May 08, 2012, 05:26:12 PM
The foliage may be old but the flowers are new  ;D
The leaves should be shooting soon and set for a season eating  flies :P

Darlingtonia californica
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 08, 2012, 05:36:55 PM
The foliage may be old but the flowers are new  ;D
The leaves should be shooting soon and set for a season eating  flies :P

Darlingtonia californica

Wonderful, Fred! Mine are still too young to flower...but it's nice to be able to enjoy yours!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ronm on May 08, 2012, 06:43:24 PM
Lovely Fred. 8) 8)
Do you use the double pot method per A. Slack, or just regular potting system?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: fredg on May 08, 2012, 07:46:29 PM
I grow in double gravel trays of live sphagnum , filled to the top with rainwater Ron.
Totally unorthodox but it gets decent results for me.
Excuse the rough photos but these are the kind of results I get.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ronm on May 08, 2012, 08:06:27 PM
 :o :o

Better than I ever got no matter which method i tried. Beautiful growing Fred. 8) 8)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Paul T on May 08, 2012, 11:51:37 PM
Fred,

Can you please explan what "double gravel trays of live sphagnum" means? (I just can't visualise what that means?).

Also, how cold do they get down to?  Is your glasshouse heated, and if so, down to what temperature?  I've not tried Darlingtonia as yet, but I grow Sarracenia etc outside here quite successfully.  No proper glasshouse here though.

Thanks.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Stephen Vella on May 09, 2012, 10:21:35 AM
Wim..very nice Paris sp,love the colour of the stamens and the arrangement, a beauty....not a species that I know
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 09, 2012, 12:41:32 PM
Wim..very nice Paris sp,love the colour of the stamens and the arrangement, a beauty....not a species that I know

Thanks Stephen! José Callens once told me the name, but I forgot  :-[ I'll ask him again!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ronm on May 09, 2012, 02:45:22 PM
Some darkness in the garden today, in more ways than one.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ronm on May 09, 2012, 04:59:16 PM
The sun came out for 10 minutes.!  8)

A very dark day,  :(
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: fredg on May 09, 2012, 05:43:59 PM
Fred,

Can you please explan what "double gravel trays of live sphagnum" means? (I just can't visualise what that means?).

Also, how cold do they get down to?  Is your glasshouse heated, and if so, down to what temperature?  I've not tried Darlingtonia as yet, but I grow Sarracenia etc outside here quite successfully.  No proper glasshouse here though.

Thanks.


Paul
The double gravel trays are 52cm x 45 cm x 10 cm ( 20.5" x 16.5" x 4") ie. double the size of a standard seed/gravel tray.
[ For those in the UK, these are good strong trays made by Stewart available at Wilkinson's for £2.87)
The medium I use in them is live Sphagnum moss and the Darlingtonia are planted directly into it.
I use rainwater to fill the tray to the brim and then top up every few days.

My greenhouses are not heated and the plants are subjected to ambient temperatures.
Vents are open all winter.
Darlingtonia are very cold tolerant, I believe the main winter problem is allowing the plants to become too dry.
Excessive heat however can cause problems.
Much is said about keeping the roots cool and some have invented  cooling systems and devices to help.
Black pots are also widely held to be taboo.
(NB: these trays are shallow and black and sit in the sunniest parts of my two greenhouses  ;D)

Just don't get me started on the cultivation of  Cephalotus , I do that completely wrong too  ;D according to many.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ronm on May 09, 2012, 05:54:04 PM
Superb growing Fred. I think the best I've ever seen on the Darlingtonia. 8)

I was wondering if you grow Cephalotus?  ;D ;D
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: fredg on May 09, 2012, 06:02:50 PM
Thank you Ron.

Your Fritillaria camschatcensis are way in front of mine.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Michael J Campbell on May 09, 2012, 07:08:20 PM
Some pictures from my brothers garden just outside New Ross Co.Wexford this morning which was  dull and wet, so the picture quality in not great.
[attach=1]
Embothrium coccineum

[attach=2]
Embothrium coccineum

[attach=3]
Embothrium coccineum

[attach=4]
Halesia carolina

[attach=5]
Paulownia tomentosa just starting to leaf out

[attach=6]
Cydonia oblonga

[attach=7]
Viburnum Carlcephalum

[attach=8]
Viburnum Carlcephalum

[attach=9]
Polygala dalmaisiana
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Michael J Campbell on May 09, 2012, 07:16:44 PM
Last one.
Aronia erecta
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ChrisB on May 09, 2012, 08:21:38 PM
Dianthus microlepis var musalae  from seed 2009.  Flowering first time this year
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Mike Ireland on May 09, 2012, 08:59:41 PM
Managed a photo between the showers today.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: krisderaeymaeker on May 09, 2012, 09:11:53 PM
Managed a photo between the showers today.

Showers Mike ? Here less uncertain weather ....its only raining for the whole day ...

Very beautiful Ramonda , one for the show ! Here it start to flower to , but it is planted out in a tufahole .
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David Nicholson on May 09, 2012, 09:12:49 PM
Dianthus microlepis var musalae  from seed 2009.  Flowering first time this year

Sweet little thing Chris. I sowed some Dianthus seed about three weeks ago (can't remember the sub-species) and have good germination and have taken them into the greenhouse now. How long did you leave them in the seed pot please?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ChrisB on May 09, 2012, 10:47:39 PM
David, I usually sow into those tiny pots and then repot the lot into a bigger one when I can see roots at the bottom.  I rarely prick out individual plants as I really don't want a load of pots hanging round and that way I get a 'clump' to start with.  it took a long time to flower, but now it has done i'm going to move the entire plant to a more appropriate spot, probably one of my new sinks that I'm going to make this summer, but if not, perhaps to a pot so I could show it maybe sometime.  Flowers are wonderful.... hope yours does as well.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Paul T on May 10, 2012, 03:53:52 AM
Fred,

Thanks for the info re your Darlingtonia cultivation.  I may just try some.  I saw a couple for sale recently (won't even think about the price!  :-\) but wasn't sure how to grow them.  I've never managed to keep Cephalotus alive, so I would love to know how you grow it successfully. :'(
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Natalia on May 10, 2012, 07:43:36 AM
In our forests were first spring mushrooms ...
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 10, 2012, 08:17:01 AM
In our forests were first spring mushrooms ...

Nice... are they edible?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Natalia on May 10, 2012, 08:38:40 AM
Yes, in Russia, these mushrooms are edible. Boil them twice, and then used to prepare different dishes.
I read that in Germany some of the spring mushrooms are poisonous, but in our country they are very tasty.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: wolfgang vorig on May 10, 2012, 04:13:27 PM
in the garden today
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ChrisB on May 10, 2012, 05:13:49 PM
That glaucidium is a stunner!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: YT on May 11, 2012, 07:28:27 AM
A well grown glaucidium clump, wolfgang :) Glaucidiums doesn't grow in gardens at my place. Here is too hot for them :(
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: YT on May 11, 2012, 07:40:05 AM
Sanicula lamelligera var. wakayamensis is blooming 8)

I love this blue flowering dwarf saniculas :)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: annew on May 11, 2012, 09:06:29 AM
A very interesting plant, YT. Blue flowers always appeal to me.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 11, 2012, 09:51:37 AM
Very nice, Tatsuo. Lovely plant! Is it easy to grow?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 11, 2012, 10:49:19 AM
Sanicula lamelligera var. wakayamensis is blooming 8)

I love this blue flowering dwarf saniculas :)
I think you are the only person I know who grows this sweet plant, Tatsuo!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Tim Ingram on May 11, 2012, 12:52:57 PM
Tatsuo - years ago I was sent a picture of a blue sanicle labelled caerulescens? But it looks identical to your plant. Very lovely. Do you have any information on its origins? I am collating details on umbellifers for a book on the family and this really is such a distinctive plant. I know there are many intriguing umbels native and grown in Japan and must learn more about them.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ronm on May 11, 2012, 01:08:11 PM
Nothing of particular "species" interest ( although if anyone can ID the Penstemon I would be very grateful ), just some colour and form from the garden today. A very overcast / black day, with heavy rain imminent. :( :(
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: KK-Ann Arbor on May 11, 2012, 03:48:02 PM
Tatsuo-san

A plant I have never seen with blue flowers!!!  Could you tell me its Japanese name?

koko
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 11, 2012, 06:43:16 PM
A few from our garden today.  First dry, pleasant day for some time.

1.  Iris 'Gingerbread Man'

2.  Euphorbia fragifera.  Comes from the Balkans and is botanically related to polychroma which it resembles but has a more starry shaped flower (very pretty). The fruit pods also differ and are supposed to resemble a strawberry, hence the specific name.

3.  Double white Lilac.
4.  Double white Tree Peony
5.  Iris 'Cream Cups'
6.  Hibiscus
7.  Hibiscus 2

Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Natalia on May 11, 2012, 06:54:46 PM
Rhododendron dauricum April Snow
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 11, 2012, 07:22:59 PM
I love the Iris 'Gingerbread Boy', David. Simply wonderful!

Some plants in flower here today:

Cypripedium 'Emil'
Epimedium 'Domino'
Epimedium grandiflorum 'Yellow Princess'
Haberlea ferdinandi-coburgi
Iris 'Cat's Eye'
Iris cristata
Iris 'Dot Com'
Primula japonica 'Miller's Crimson'
Ramonda myconi 'Alba'
Trillium recurvatum
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Michael J Campbell on May 11, 2012, 07:28:35 PM
WOW! Iris 'Gingerbread Boy' is just delightful.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: YT on May 12, 2012, 02:04:36 AM
Thank you for all comments to the blue sanicula :)

This sanicula is an evergreen perennial and frost hardy undergrowth in temperate rain forests. It grows naturally at only few spots around Kainan City in northern part of Wakayama prefecture in Japan. It has abruptly been listed as an extinct species in the wild in the Red Data Book of Japan 2007 edition, but is still alive in wild habitats even now ??? ::)

In my experience, it is very easy to grow in shade gardens, and sets seeds and propagates freely by itself.

Here is a good website with further details in English:
Sanicula lamelligera var. wakayamensis
http://flowers.la.coocan.jp/Umbelliferae/Sanicula%20lamelligera%20wakayamensis.htm (http://flowers.la.coocan.jp/Umbelliferae/Sanicula%20lamelligera%20wakayamensis.htm)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Hoy on May 12, 2012, 11:09:02 AM
Well, YT, now you have started a rush to get that plant! And I'm in that queue ;)
Do you know whether it is easy from seed? Or obtainable from somewhere?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Stephen Vella on May 12, 2012, 12:25:08 PM
interesting to see the blue Sanicula lamelligera var. wakayamensis, there is S caerulescens which is just as blue and easily avaliable and self seeds in a woodland condition. C europeans has creamy flowers and acts the same way.

It would be nice to see the japanese sp freely available

thanks for showing Tatsuo
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 12, 2012, 01:45:39 PM
Thank you for all comments to the blue sanicula :)

This sanicula is an evergreen perennial and frost hardy undergrowth in temperate rain forests. It grows naturally at only few spots around Kainan City in northern part of Wakayama prefecture in Japan. It has abruptly been listed as an extinct species in the wild in the Red Data Book of Japan 2007 edition, but is still alive in wild habitats even now ??? ::)

In my experience, it is very easy to grow in shade gardens, and sets seeds and propagates freely by itself.

Here is a good website with further details in English:
Sanicula lamelligera var. wakayamensis
http://flowers.la.coocan.jp/Umbelliferae/Sanicula%20lamelligera%20wakayamensis.htm (http://flowers.la.coocan.jp/Umbelliferae/Sanicula%20lamelligera%20wakayamensis.htm)

Well, YT, now you have started a rush to get that plant! And I'm in that queue ;)
Do you know whether it is easy from seed? Or obtainable from somewhere?

Yeah, put me in that queue also  ;) ;)  ;D
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Luc Gilgemyn on May 12, 2012, 09:17:49 PM
Some eyecatchers in the garden at the moment :

1) Veronica "Blue sheen"
2) Ramonda myconi "Jim's Shadow"
3) same
4) Oxalis x "Ridgeway Sapphire"
5) Oxalis laciniata "Joe Elliott"
6) Oxalis enneaphylla "Sheffield Swan"
7) Oxalis enneaphylla - dark veines
8 ) Meconopsis "Huntfield"
9) Linum perenne ssp. alpinum "Alice Blue"
10) Linum elegans
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 12, 2012, 10:45:37 PM
Lovely things there. I've never had or even seen a Sanicula but the name Sanicula arctopoides, is ringing a small bell in my memory. Or am I thinking of something altogether different?

Without my doing anything at all, a spell check has just started as I type here. I usually proofread before I post but now I find a dozen red squiggles even in this small bit. ???
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 12, 2012, 11:06:55 PM
Oh yes, I remember now, I DID do something on Friday, abandoned IE as a browser and went for Google Chrome, which is working 3 times as fast as IE. I did it because I kept getting a little window saying something about at error at line 0. Can't even remember that properly now ???

I just Googled Sanicula arctopoides and it does exist. I think I must have seen it in an old AGS bulletin or somewhere and I think I included it on a long forgotten "wants" list but it never came my way. It goes to prove though, what I sometimes tell people at the market, people I know well by sight but don't know who they are. "If you were a plant I'd know your name." ;D
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: brianw on May 12, 2012, 11:10:20 PM
Do you know where Gingerbread Boy came from? I have a very similar one I know as Gingerbread and the Plant Finder has G. Man and G. Castle. Mine seems to be similar to G. Man from online photos. Is there a register of Iris of this type?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 13, 2012, 12:09:42 AM
Maybe the best option would be to google American Iris Society and look at images of dwarfs. Or catalogues. My 'Gingerbread Man' is probably the same as yours Brian, rather less rich in colour, the falls a little closer to mustard (JUST a little). Maybe someone raised a seedling from GM and named it GB. But bearded irises must be registered for the names to be accepted and recognized.

The little 'Dot Com' is another lovely form but another Dot Com is less popular in NZ at present, An American (I think) of German birth, some time ago changed his name by deed poll, to Dot Com (as a surname) and is currently being hassled by the USA govt - or NZ is - to be extradicted to the USA on charges of computer pirating on a massive scale. He is hugely rich as a result. Also is involved in so-called anonymous donations of large amounts to a right wing politician who has failed to declare their source though everyone knows darned well he knew it. You don't accept $50,000 from someone who happens to need certain favours, and not know who that person is. Get real.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 13, 2012, 07:06:48 AM
The little 'Dot Com' is another lovely form but another Dot Com is less popular in NZ at present, An American (I think) of German birth, some time ago changed his name by deed poll, to Dot Com (as a surname) and is currently being hassled by the USA govt - or NZ is - to be extradicted to the USA on charges of computer pirating on a massive scale. He is hugely rich as a result. Also is involved in so-called anonymous donations of large amounts to a right wing politician who has failed to declare their source though everyone knows darned well he knew it. You don't accept $50,000 from someone who happens to need certain favours, and not know who that person is. Get real.

Hadn't heard about that...interesting....no such "dot commers" in my garden  ;)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 13, 2012, 10:12:57 AM
Sanicula arctopoides is an American species, I think.

As usual, we have dear Fred to thank for the addition of the spell  check....... :-* :-*
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Brian Ellis on May 13, 2012, 10:18:29 AM
Do you know where Gingerbread Boy came from? I have a very similar one I know as Gingerbread and the Plant Finder has G. Man and G. Castle. Mine seems to be similar to G. Man from online photos. Is there a register of Iris of this type?

Sorry it's my fault, for some reason I have a mental block on the name of this Iris and have re-christened it in my head 'Gingerbread Boy' - I think because my class used to love the story of the Gingerbread boy.  I shall have to label it and then it mights stick in my head, I told David it was 'Gingerbread Boy' and it is in fact 'Gingerbread Man'.  Mea Culpa.  Ours came from Four Seasons Nursery when they were closing down and we were invited to go round and dig any iris up that we would like along with the rest of our Norfolk & Suffolk Hardy Plant Group.  Consequently our gardens our littered with Iris (what a hardship), this does remain my particular favourite (although I say that of all of them when they are in flower).
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: YT on May 13, 2012, 10:37:27 AM
Well, YT, now you have started a rush to get that plant! And I'm in that queue ;)
Do you know whether it is easy from seed? Or obtainable from somewhere?

Yes, its very easy from seeds. Look the attached pic, there are many seedlings under a mother plants now :)

interesting to see the blue Sanicula lamelligera var. wakayamensis, there is S caerulescens which is just as blue and easily avaliable and self seeds in a woodland condition. C europeans has creamy flowers and acts the same way.

It would be nice to see the japanese sp freely available

thanks for showing Tatsuo

I didn't know another blue sanicule, Chinese native S. caerulescens :o Looks very similer to Japanese one. Thank you for the information, Stephen :)

Yeah, put me in that queue also  ;) ;)  ;D

 ;D ;D ;)

Some eyecatchers in the garden at the moment :
8 ) Meconopsis "Huntfield"

Luk, a beautifu blue poppy :D It is one of my dreams to grow blue poppies at my place...
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: fredg on May 13, 2012, 11:22:43 AM
It's tiime for the Sarracenia to begin flowering.
At least this Sarracenia flava ( Copper Top) doesn't have the usual S. flava 'Tom Cat' trait. ::) :-X
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 13, 2012, 12:20:15 PM
This is Sarracenia 'Brooks Hybrid' at Cambridge Botanic Gardens last week.

Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ichristie on May 13, 2012, 04:38:01 PM
Hello all, this is probably the wrong place to post this topic but I had a visit today from the Rhododendron society they come to see our garden as we have different plant then I took them to Ascreavie the once owned garden by Major Sherriff it was a wild windy cold day but nobody noticed that it was super to see the structure of the big old Rhodos and others so I post a few pictures, cheers Ian the Christie kind
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 13, 2012, 04:42:35 PM
Weather pretty horrible here, too, Ian.  So  said most of the callers to the radio programme today, from all over the country.  :'(

Super to get this glimpse of Ascreavie's old plants - plants with an impeccable provenance! 8)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Michael J Campbell on May 13, 2012, 06:17:18 PM
Androsace pubescens
Pulsatilla vulgaris
Geista pilosa var. minor
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Olga Bondareva on May 13, 2012, 07:13:43 PM
Hello all!
That's interesting Pulsatillas bloom at the same time here and in Europe.  :)

Pulsatilla vulgaris Perlen Glocke
(http://cs301108.userapi.com/v301108879/8c0/99iHage1m8c.jpg)

Epimedium leptorrhizum
(http://cs301108.userapi.com/v301108879/900/NuD50Quh0jc.jpg)

Pulsatilla flavescens & Lewisia tweedyi
(http://cs301108.userapi.com/v301108879/8c8/K8F8FAgfZno.jpg)

Pulsatilla campanella
(http://cs301108.userapi.com/v301108879/8b8/eUCB6RS8OeM.jpg)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David Nicholson on May 13, 2012, 07:28:09 PM
My Pusatillas are over and done with. Some very interesting ones there Olga, and , as usual, your pictures are beautiful.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lori S. on May 13, 2012, 07:50:36 PM
Exquisite photos, Olga, as always! 
Is that really a different colour and form of Pulsatilla campanella, or might it be something more along the lines of, maybe, P. albana (if I'm thinking of the right one)?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Brian Ellis on May 13, 2012, 07:56:04 PM
Just back from a garden visit in North Norfolk (near Cromer) to the garden of John Simmons, Curator of Kew from 1972-1995 who helped establish the Castle Howard arboretum after his retirement!  A fascinating garden developed on former grazing land containing over 300 trees and shrubs, many of which have been used as examples and illustrations in his book on coping with wet gardens (Timber Press 2008).  Several of the plants were collected originally by John in Iran, Turkey, Argentina, and particularly Guizhou (Artemisia lactiflora 'Guizhou' is his collection) and West Sichuan where he collected a delightful Iris confusa and several Lilium sargentiae.  He was presented with this rare Cathaya argyrophylla, now 12 years old by the Chinese.  I think David will post some pictures later.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Mike Ireland on May 13, 2012, 08:24:18 PM
Clematis marmoraria with asperula suberosa behind.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Tom Waters on May 13, 2012, 08:25:21 PM
Scutellaria alpina 'Arcobaleno'
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 13, 2012, 11:47:26 PM
Is it the (dark) colour which mor often defines P. campanella or the drooping heads? My P. albana forms usually have an upright flower on a short, stiff stem, but the pics I've seen (haven't a plant) of campanella have all been very dark.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 14, 2012, 12:07:42 AM
A few pictures from John Simmons's garden which we visited this afternoon.

1.  Rhododendron cinnabarinum
2.  Paeonia delavayi var. delavayi f. lutea (Yunnan) not quite out yet.
3.  A monkey puzzle tree
4.  Iris confusa - the bamboo iris
5.  Podophyllum 'Spotty Dotty'
6.  A fern
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lori S. on May 14, 2012, 12:29:42 AM
Is it the (dark) colour which mor often defines P. campanella or the drooping heads? My P. albana forms usually have an upright flower on a short, stiff stem, but the pics I've seen (haven't a plant) of campanella have all been very dark.

I sure couldn't say what defines P. campanella, but I have posted photos here a few times of the plant below and referred to it as "Pulsatilla campanella" and no one has corrected me, so I assumed it was indeed that.   :)  Looks quite different to me in flower form and colour (clearly) from the one Olga posted, though.

[attachthumb=1]
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 14, 2012, 12:48:54 AM
It would not have occurred to me to see your lovely plant Lori, as P. campanella, but as I said above, I don't have it, have only seen pictures here on the Forum. I think there was a very good image at one time on the International Rock Gardener section of the website and I'm sure the flower was almost pendant and just about globular in shape. Memory may be at fault though. It wouldn't be the first time. ???
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lori S. on May 14, 2012, 03:40:25 AM
It would not have occurred to me to see your lovely plant Lori, as P. campanella, but as I said above, I don't have it, have only seen pictures here on the Forum.
If you do a search on the species name, Lesley, I think you'll see that many/most of the photos on the current forum (can't comment on the old one nor on the IRG) of P. campanella were posted by me!  So if you think it's something else, please do let me know!   :)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 14, 2012, 04:34:22 AM
Well I'm not in a position to say what else it could be. It doesn't look like a straight vulgaris form. Maybe Maggi can find the one in the IRG?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 14, 2012, 09:59:50 AM
There is only a mention of P. campanella in issue 14 of IRG  (February 2011)- no photo!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Mike Ireland on May 14, 2012, 11:45:22 AM
Hope this might help with Pulsatilla campanella.  I obtained seed from RMRP in January 2011.
Seed germinated quickly and all plants established well.  A number where planted into my garden last year & have all flowered this spring.
Quite a few have been passed to friends & some were kept in pots as shown in the photos.
The plants are about 4 - 6 inches tall.  Flower colour is the same, no variation as yet.
There is a brief reference in the AGS Bulletin, Vol 58 page 110 in an article, "A fortnight in the Mountains of Heaven" by Simon Davey.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Olga Bondareva on May 14, 2012, 05:58:49 PM
Dear all,  :) I like the discussion on my P. campanella. I collected it's seeds in 2004 in Tian-Shan (that's why it couldn't be P. albana or other species). All plants from the seeds were the same color. Leaves look similar to P. campanella.

I've just tried to search internet and have found a picture made by my friend Ury Pirogov in Kazakhstan.
(http://www.plantarium.ru/dat/plants/7/738/112738_d0d00eff.jpg)
You can also look at other pictures of the species at Russian botanical forum
http://www.plantarium.ru/page/view/item/30894.html (http://www.plantarium.ru/page/view/item/30894.html)
You can see different flower colors.  :)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Olga Bondareva on May 14, 2012, 06:11:41 PM
 :)

(http://cs301108.userapi.com/v301108879/908/CuoMvYKgewM.jpg)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Hoy on May 14, 2012, 07:24:08 PM
The spring has taken steps backwards here! The train from east to west was blocked by wind and heavy snowfall last night, cars blew off the road, hurricane at the coast farther north etc. Several plants are damaged in my garden and the flowers and leaves blown off the rhododendrons.

Some flowers survived though!

Ichtyoselmis macrantha (syn Dicentra m.) is slowly spreading in the woodland.
Rhododendron cinnabarinum Roylei group
An unknown rhodo
Hylomecon vernalis (syn H. japonica), also a slug resistant plant in the woodland.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lori S. on May 14, 2012, 07:27:45 PM
Well, that is puzzling about P. campanella, Olga.  The photos on the site you posted are of rather short-sepaled plants, unlike what I'm growing.

Thanks for posting your photos, Mike; my plants look like yours.

Here is the Flora of China description for P. campanella:, which talks of sepals being blue-violet to lilac:
http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200008052 (http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200008052)

Flora of China does list some other unusual yellow/white flowered ones though - P. millefolium, P. sukaczevii:
http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=127637 (http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=127637)

P. sukaczevii is found both through Russia and in China, however in the illustration, it looks much more like an anemone:
http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200008061 (http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200008061)

 ???
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Olga Bondareva on May 14, 2012, 07:40:17 PM
Lori, Russian botanical sources describe P. sukaczevii (which is a synonym of P. tenuiloba) as violet-flowered.  :)
That's a puzzle. True. The genus is not clearly divided on species. Lots of synonyms and alternative systematics. The other problem is many species hybridize easily and if you've got seeds from somebody's garden you couldn't be ensured the species is true.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 14, 2012, 10:48:28 PM
I wish I could think where I saw the image I have in my head. Maybe it didn't exist at all except as an illusion?

Trond, It's great to see your Hylomecon. Do you get seeds on it at all?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lori S. on May 14, 2012, 11:57:16 PM
Lori, Russian botanical sources describe P. sukaczevii (which is a synonym of P. tenuiloba) as violet-flowered.  :)
That's a puzzle. True. The genus is not clearly divided on species. Lots of synonyms and alternative systematics. The other problem is many species hybridize easily and if you've got seeds from somebody's garden you couldn't be ensured the species is true.

I think I got my original plant from Wrightman's Alpines but your point is very well taken.   :)

Well, I'm totally confused then.  What is the plant that Mike and I have?

 ???
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 15, 2012, 12:35:17 AM
The flowers and seed head seem to remain well nodding - in the pictures on the NARGS site - until the seeds are ready to ripen. Or even to harvest, pulsatillas germinating as they do, from quite green seed.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: cohan on May 15, 2012, 02:32:33 AM
I certainly can't comment on the names, but I do like all the Pulsatillas shown- but especially love the forms/colours shown by Olga! I'd be happy to grow that one under any name :)

Trond, the ex-Dicentra is interesting... is it a big plant?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Olga Bondareva on May 15, 2012, 05:30:22 AM
Well, I'm totally confused then.  What is the plant that Mike and I have?
Lori, I have the same (I think) plants from Vojtech Holubec seeds named P. campanella. They were in bloom yesterday. I promise you to shoot them tomorrow and shoot the leaves of both plants. We can compare. But it is the second generation of Vojtech's P. campanella and I am not sure it is not a hybrid. 
It's much easier to be insured when Pulsatilla has unusual flower color.  :)

Thank you Cohan. :) I'd try to spread it if the border disappear.

And more for Pulsatilla lovers. One of my Papageno.

(http://cs301108.userapi.com/v301108879/8f8/C1oRgAlPKSY.jpg)

Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: cohan on May 15, 2012, 06:42:30 AM
Yes, those bothersome borders, interfering with gardening  ;D I will watch for it in some of the Czech seedlists, maybe....

In the past I have not been sure if I like Papagenos or not- but yours looks nice- maybe its just the quality of the photo!The soft colour seems very sweet though...

Today for the first time I was very excited to photograph (only 3 plants quite far apart) Pulsatilla patens in the mountains west of here, for the first time for me :)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Graham Catlow on May 15, 2012, 07:58:04 PM
Flowers and foliage from today.

Calceolaria 'Walter Shrimpton'
Narcissus 'Sun Disc'
Daphne retusa
Euphorbia myrsinites
Rhododendron 'Everred'
Trillium grandiflora & Bergenia
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Graham Catlow on May 15, 2012, 08:02:36 PM
Some more.

Dactylorhiza
Allium scenescens montanum - I really like the curly leaves and the way the plants eventually form a circle.
Draba mollissima 'Goteborg'
Tulip 'Queen of the Night'
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 16, 2012, 05:53:41 AM
Some beauties there Graham, especially the Cal. WS and the Red leaved rhodo.  I find the calceolaria quite difficult in our very dry summers, and this year when it was quite cool and damp, the darned thing had already died last year. Can't win. Some seedlings though from SRGC. :)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Olga Bondareva on May 17, 2012, 11:09:36 AM
Graham,
Your Calceolaria looks like a covey of small dogs. :) It seems they look at the photographer. 

Images of Pulsatilla foliage (my campanella and violet campanella) are in Pulsatilla discussion:
http://www.srgc.net/forum/index.php?topic=8804.75 (http://www.srgc.net/forum/index.php?topic=8804.75)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Olga Bondareva on May 17, 2012, 11:24:03 AM
Glaucidium palmatum Album
(http://cs5687.userapi.com/v5687879/900/EFSuxQiVv90.jpg)

Trillium cuneatum
(http://cs10774.userapi.com/v10774879/7ef/pLDIoU69A-g.jpg)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ChrisB on May 17, 2012, 07:02:46 PM
Wonderful pics everyone.  Thoroughly enjoying sharing these with you....
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: fleurbleue on May 17, 2012, 07:33:59 PM
Your Glaucidium album is a real beauty,  Olga  ;)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ichristie on May 17, 2012, 08:13:36 PM
Lots of super plants the pictures brighten up the very cold wet day never had it so cold in May. I went for a walk this aternoon just to get out saw some groups of wood sorrel am posting a picture along with others from the garden, cheers Ian the Christie kind.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Hoy on May 17, 2012, 08:28:49 PM
Trond, It's great to see your Hylomecon. Do you get seeds on it at all?
Lesley, I have 3 different specimens but they are at a distance from each other and I have never got seeds at all. Maybe I should try to help with a brush ;)


Trond, the ex-Dicentra is interesting... is it a big plant?

Cohan, it is about 3/4 m high and with a running rhizomes. The new stems pop up about every 1/2m. It is not aggressive though so it mixes easily with other plants.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Hoy on May 17, 2012, 08:47:37 PM
Graham, impressive Calceolaria! I had it once but it died of drought - who should have foreseen that at my place ???

Olga, I am jealous of your white Glaucidium! I have a nice, big clump of the ordinary colour but haven't been lucky with the white so far!

Ian, that Paris is really something :o
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Graham Catlow on May 17, 2012, 09:07:58 PM
Thanks Lesley, Olga and Trond,
The Calceolaria has been in the trough for three years now. It was more compact last year and consequently the flowers were closer together. It seems to be creeping from its original position. The trough is covered for the winter to keep out the wet rather than the cold.
Olga - I can see what you mean. I think people see different things. Maggi thought they looked like a choir last year.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: olegKon on May 17, 2012, 09:08:08 PM
Some plants from the garden this week
1. Anemonella thalictroides Shoaf's double
2. Anemonella thalictroides Semidouble White
3. Unknown viola. Any ideas?
4. Potemtilla uniflora
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: olegKon on May 17, 2012, 09:09:23 PM
Sorry, the first should have been this
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Gerdk on May 17, 2012, 09:32:16 PM
Some plants from the garden this week
3. Unknown viola. Any ideas?

Perhaps Viola uliginosa?

Gerd
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 17, 2012, 10:57:33 PM
Maybe I should try to help with a brush ;)


Yes, you should! Now! :D
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: olegKon on May 18, 2012, 12:16:38 PM
thanks,Gerd.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Hoy on May 18, 2012, 08:15:02 PM
Yes, you should! Now! :D
Do I get the idea that you are interested in seeds ;D
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: krisderaeymaeker on May 18, 2012, 09:35:56 PM
Happy to see that Jancaea heldreichii is flowering in our garden   .
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: alpinelover on May 18, 2012, 10:39:57 PM
The Jancaea's are great, Kris.
I've got Edraianthus serpyllifolius on the tufarocks. (photo 1,2 and 3)
Some more plants of the tufa: Arenaria tetraquetra (photo 4), Globularia incanescens (photo 5), Eritrichium pauciflorum ssp. sajanense (photo 6), Morisia monanthos (photo 7), Androsace villosa ‘arachnoidea’ (photo 8), Campanula dzaaku (photo 9) and Androsace hymalaica (photo 10).
It's great to have a tufagarden.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David Pilling on May 19, 2012, 09:42:12 PM
Two or three years back someone on the SRGC forum offered hybernuncula of Pinguicula grandiflora. It surprises me a little that I didn't kill them - anyway look what I have now...

Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 19, 2012, 11:35:48 PM
Do I get the idea that you are interested in seeds ;D

I don't know how you can tell Trond. ;D It was available for sale here a few years ago, the true plant but not now that I can find and every attempt to bring in seed has resulted in the acquisition of yet another Stylophorum.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 19, 2012, 11:56:47 PM
Glory Be! Those are truly wonderful David. 8)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: YT on May 20, 2012, 07:13:24 AM
David, that's the real beauty :o 8) 8)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: YT on May 20, 2012, 07:24:20 AM
Magnolia sieboldii subsp. japonica 'Tai-koh' :) :) :)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Graham Catlow on May 20, 2012, 07:59:19 AM
Two or three years back someone on the SRGC forum offered hybernuncula of Pinguicula grandiflora. It surprises me a little that I didn't kill them - anyway look what I have now...

Excellent David :). one of my favourite plants.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ChrisB on May 20, 2012, 10:36:23 AM
That's a stunning display David.

Love your magnolia YT....
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: LucS on May 20, 2012, 11:35:50 AM
A plant that I got last year that survived the winter to my surprise:
Vincetoxicum hirundinaria ssp. nivale from the Pangeion Mtns in N-Greeche.
It disappeared completely during wintertime and is now some 20cm high, flowering with greenish-yellow flowers
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ashley on May 20, 2012, 11:55:03 AM
That's very attractive Luc, and great that it overwintered so well for you. 
I don't think I've ever seen this plant before.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Olga Bondareva on May 20, 2012, 03:17:25 PM
David, incredible!  :)

Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Olga Bondareva on May 20, 2012, 03:22:56 PM
Rhododendron impeditum Album (I am not sure it's right name).
(http://cs10774.userapi.com/v10774879/872/2vvVRfKgf8k.jpg)

Picea abies Acrocona Nana with a skirt of Hepatiсa nobilis f. alba. Only a few cones this year. Think new conifer shoots are as attractive as flowers.
(http://cs10774.userapi.com/v10774879/852/qtx39360N1Y.jpg)

Daphne juliae color forms old plants in my nursery.
(http://cs10774.userapi.com/v10774879/84a/HRNCr8SmJgM.jpg)

Salix tschuktschorum is one of the best dwarf salixes. It's foliage is fragrant.
(http://cs10774.userapi.com/v10774879/83a/aUoXOjZ9wtI.jpg)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ashley on May 20, 2012, 03:55:45 PM
All are beautiful Olga.  Growth must be very fast there now, with the high temperatures you've had recently.  I'm intrigued by the idea of an aromatic salix.

Podophyllum mairei third year seedlings (x2)
Trillium luteum form (2-3 weeks ago) that appears late but makes up for that with nice leaf markings
Violas are slightly chewed but getting under way now
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Magnar on May 20, 2012, 09:03:03 PM
As yuo can see I am far behind most of you when it comes to flowering plants.. we are still in spring, with snow in the hills and completely white mountains.

Some pics taken this week
Erythronium sibiricum
Fritillaria pinnardii ( I hope)
Hepatica Ballardi ( I am told, got it without name)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Rogan on May 21, 2012, 01:21:31 PM
"Two or three years back someone on the SRGC forum offered hybernuncula of Pinguicula grandiflora. It surprises me a little that I didn't kill them - anyway look what I have now..."

Wow! Fantastic David! I have a patch of P. primuliflora, but not nearly as attractive as yours!  :o
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ronm on May 21, 2012, 03:18:47 PM
Fantastic Pings David and Rogan. I think thats the nicest group of P.primuliflora I have ever seen, 8) 8) 8).

I am pretty sure that your Fritillaria isn't F. pinardii Magnar. Looks very much like F.armena to me. Some more pics here,
http://www.fritillaria.org.uk/Image%20Pages/fritillaria_armena.htm (http://www.fritillaria.org.uk/Image%20Pages/fritillaria_armena.htm)
http://www.srgc.org.uk/bulblog/log2007/290307/log.html (http://www.srgc.org.uk/bulblog/log2007/290307/log.html)
http://www.floralook.com/en/no_cache/home/photo/fritillaria-armena/?search_on=1 (http://www.floralook.com/en/no_cache/home/photo/fritillaria-armena/?search_on=1)
Also many other pics on
http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl/record/kew-306512 (http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl/record/kew-306512)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 21, 2012, 03:57:55 PM
Two or three years back someone on the SRGC forum offered hybernuncula of Pinguicula grandiflora. It surprises me a little that I didn't kill them - anyway look what I have now...

David, are those my babies  ;) They look wonderful, I'm glad they are growing well for you  :)

Wow! Fantastic David! I have a patch of P. primuliflora, but not nearly as attractive as yours!  :o

Rogan,

I think that P. primuliflora is just as wonderful!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 21, 2012, 03:58:24 PM
Salix tschuktschorum is one of the best dwarf salixes. It's foliage is fragrant.
(http://cs10774.userapi.com/v10774879/83a/aUoXOjZ9wtI.jpg)

Olga, what does it smell like?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Zdenek on May 21, 2012, 08:46:35 PM
Several other photos from this month:
Cotula pectinata var. wilcoxii from New Zealand
Erysimum helveticum maybe var. nanum - the most compact form I grow
Aubrieta thessala - a compact form which must be propagated by cuttings, from seeds it is normal Aubrieta
Aethionema subulatum - one of the most tiny species of this Genera
Dianthus microlepis var. degenii has blue green foliage
Gentiana verna 'Alba'
Eritrichium howardii
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: alpinelover on May 21, 2012, 09:02:30 PM
Nice plants Zdenek.
Asyneuma filipes on the tufa. (photo 1 and 2)
Dianthus 'La Bourboule' (photo 3 and 4)
Erigeron chrysopsidis ‘Grand Ridge’ (photo 5)
Penstemon rupicola ‘Conwy star’ (photo 6 and 7)
DOdecatheon media (photo 8 and 9)
Centaurea triumfetti (photo 10)


Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David Pilling on May 21, 2012, 09:20:22 PM
Thanks for the positive comments on my Pinguicula grandiflora.

WimB - yes they're the ones you sent me.

Rogan - I like your pale blue ones.

If anyone would like some hybernuncula ask me in October.



Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Graham Catlow on May 21, 2012, 09:23:41 PM
"Two or three years back someone on the SRGC forum offered hybernuncula of Pinguicula grandiflora. It surprises me a little that I didn't kill them - anyway look what I have now..."

Wow! Fantastic David! I have a patch of P. primuliflora, but not nearly as attractive as yours!  :o


I think I have to quote you Rogan but for your P. primuliflora Wow! Fantastic.
I really should grow more of these. I tried alpina and longifolia from seed but got nothing from them.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 21, 2012, 11:56:01 PM
Some stunning plants in the above posts. The Ping. primuliflora is VERY primuliflora isn't it. ;D and I'm thrilled to see the cheeky Viola 'Jackanapes' after a long time. I had this for years, a 1990 importation when that was still possible but it has gone now. I'm not sure if it is still alive and growing in NZ even. I must enquire.

Thank you everyone for these beautiful spring flowers and foliage.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Zdenek on May 22, 2012, 09:58:00 AM
Nice plants Zdenek.
Asyneuma filipes on the tufa. (photo 1 and 2)
Dianthus 'La Bourboule' (photo 3 and 4)
Erigeron chrysopsidis ‘Grand Ridge’ (photo 5)
Penstemon rupicola ‘Conwy star’ (photo 6 and 7)
DOdecatheon media (photo 8 and 9)
Centaurea triumfetti (photo 10)
Very interesting Asyneuma, quite new for me.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ronm on May 22, 2012, 02:05:54 PM
Delphinium tatsienense

Very early flowering for this. Probably because I brought them inside as the stems were getting broken down by the poor weather.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lampwick on May 22, 2012, 04:56:43 PM
Pictures taken yesterday and today…

Eriogonum caespitosum, cult. ex Idaho
Aethionema 'Warley Rose'
Oxalis 'Gwen McBride'



Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 23, 2012, 10:06:42 AM
A few pictures in the garden yesterday.

1.        An Acquilegia (unnamed)
2.        Narcissus poeticus plena - wonderful scent
3.        Crinodendron hookerianum
4 & 5.  Clematis 'Asao'
6.        Enkianthus
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 23, 2012, 03:11:21 PM
Not a flower but rather nice formation of fungi.

Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Hoy on May 23, 2012, 08:52:52 PM
A plant that I got last year that survived the winter to my surprise:
Vincetoxicum hirundinaria ssp. nivale from the Pangeion Mtns in N-Greeche.
It disappeared completely during wintertime and is now some 20cm high, flowering with greenish-yellow flowers
Vincetoxicum hirundinaria is a not uncommon wild plant in Norway and Sweden. However, your plant is more gardenworthy with better leaves and flowers ;D
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Gerdk on May 24, 2012, 08:50:03 AM
Just a few violet pics from this week

1. Viola canina - white variety from a Swedish donor
2. Viola douglasii and 3. V. hallii - both originally from the Pacific NW of the US
4. Viola elatior - one of the largest European species
5. Viola striata - also large - origninally from the eastern US
6. + 7. Violet from the South American Chilenium section (Vv. maculata, reichei)
           - difficult to identify
Gerd
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: olegKon on May 24, 2012, 08:23:28 PM
Very beautiful violas, Gerd, as usual.
Some pictures this week
1.Miosotis rehsteinery
2.Erysium kotchyanum
3.Globularia bellidifolia
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Armin on May 24, 2012, 09:23:41 PM
Lovely plants from everybody. 8)

Enclosed a picture on my crocus meadow in may :)

It is an ongoing experiment - interesting is to see how annually the number of flower species increases. Marguerites dominate at the moment.

Currently it is a paradise for any kind of insects - also umpleasant ones
see here http://www.srgc.net/forum/index.php?topic=8945.105 (http://www.srgc.net/forum/index.php?topic=8945.105)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 25, 2012, 12:43:22 AM
Not a flower but rather nice formation of fungi.

Pity they're not facing up the other way. You could use them to stand display pots on. ;D
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 25, 2012, 12:45:30 AM
That's a very nice Myosotis Oleg, with a neat compact habit. Pretty colour too. :D
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: olegKon on May 25, 2012, 08:52:33 AM
Thanks, Lesley. I'm happy to have it.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maren on May 25, 2012, 09:31:59 AM

If anyone would like some hybernuncula ask me in October.

Yes please, David, would you put me on your list please for the Pinguicula grandiflora. And any instructions on how you achieved that incredible display would be most appreciated. :) :) :)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Gerdk on May 25, 2012, 10:33:09 AM
Thank you Oleg!
Love your frits collection - very nice!

Gerd
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Graham Catlow on May 25, 2012, 05:28:07 PM
 8) 8) 8)

Rhododendron (Azalea) purpurtraum.

Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David Nicholson on May 25, 2012, 07:45:14 PM
Lovely Graham. How many plants are there?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: hadacekf on May 25, 2012, 07:45:26 PM
Lovely plants from everybody. 8)

Enclosed a picture on my crocus meadow in may :)

It is an ongoing experiment - interesting is to see how annually the number of flower species increases. Marguerites dominate at the moment.

Currently it is a paradise for any kind of insects - also umpleasant ones
see here http://www.srgc.net/forum/index.php?topic=8945.105 (http://www.srgc.net/forum/index.php?topic=8945.105)

To compare my meadow.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Graham Catlow on May 25, 2012, 08:08:47 PM
Lovely Graham. How many plants are there?

Thanks David, It's rather bright isn't it.
There are five plants in all in the top photo. One is isolated from the others by Rhododendron Wine and Roses. The second and third photos show a group of four.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Armin on May 25, 2012, 09:51:00 PM
To compare my meadow.

Franz,
interesting, your gras is much shorter - assume you have a much more nutrient-low ground compared to my heavy loam.
Are the broad leaves from your colchicums?

Month-to-day 35 mm rainfall and temperatures up to 31,9°C have caused a real growth explosion.
My aquilegia hybrid perennials reached a height up to 110 cm and one flower 4 fingers broad! :o
Never had this before! And I did not fertilize them.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: angie on May 25, 2012, 11:08:51 PM
Graham thats some display  8) garden will be looking good this time of year.

Angie  :)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 26, 2012, 02:20:14 PM
A few from the garden today.

1.  Peony
2.  Iris Holden Clough
3.  Iris Broadleigh Rose
4.  Clematis recta Velvet Night on the way up
5.  Geraniums
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 26, 2012, 02:28:43 PM
Clematis recta Velvet Night  - wow!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 26, 2012, 05:16:42 PM
Clematis recta Velvet Night  - wow!

It's rather nice isn't it.  Gets to about 7 feet and is backed on the other side by Campanula 'Loddon Anna' which is a pale mauve to compliment it (also about 7 feet).  Looks good!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on May 26, 2012, 05:32:03 PM
That does sound a very attractive plant combination, David.
 The BD would tell me we haven't the room for such things here...... :(
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: ChrisB on May 26, 2012, 06:54:09 PM
Maggi - they take up hardly any room at all at the base.... would be an ideal companion to the erythroniums as they come when the others go down .... and isn't that foliage wonderful.... I'm drooling here....
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Brian Ellis on May 26, 2012, 07:09:17 PM
Our 'Velvet Night' was bought about 15 years ago (I think), it now covers an area about 2' diameter.  Never thought about Erythroniums there - it's always so bare in the Spring so I will try that Chris, thanks for the idea.  I claim credit for the planting combination with Campanula lactiflora 'Loddon Anna'. though - silly me thought it was named for Loddon which is near here, then I found out it was a nursery!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: hadacekf on May 26, 2012, 07:57:50 PM
Franz,
interesting, your gras is much shorter - assume you have a much more nutrient-low ground compared to my heavy loam.
Are the broad leaves from your colchicums?

Month-to-day 35 mm rainfall and temperatures up to 31,9°C have caused a real growth explosion.
My aquilegia hybrid perennials reached a height up to 110 cm and one flower 4 fingers broad! :o
Never had this before! And I did not fertilize them.

Armin you are right, my grass is much shorter because we have a great drought. Also in my garden many plants blooming unusually well and good, despite the drought. The large leaves are Colchicums.
I think that might be the cause of the cold winter.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Graham Catlow on May 26, 2012, 08:05:06 PM
David,
Does your Clematis recta Velvet Night need staking or does it stay upright on its own? It is rather special.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Brian Ellis on May 26, 2012, 09:00:49 PM
I'm afraid it has to be staked Graham.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 26, 2012, 09:16:59 PM
Some plants in flower in my garden now:

Allium komarovii
Geranium cinereum 'Alba'
Iris 'Forever Blue'
Lewisia nevadensis
Ramonda myconi
Iris 'Leprechaun's Purse'
Pinguicula mundii
Delosperma basuticum
Iris 'Eco Little Bluebird'
Echinocereus viridiflorus
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: WimB on May 26, 2012, 09:20:13 PM
And some more:

Arisaema intermedium
Polygonatum huanum
Polygonatum sp. Polygonatum humile. (With thanks to Ulla for the correct name)
Geranium renardii
Phyteuma nigrum
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: johnw on May 27, 2012, 02:11:14 AM
David / Brian - What a colour! It appears to vastly better than 'Purpurea Select'.

johnw
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Brian Ellis on May 27, 2012, 08:56:44 AM
Yes John, it is stunning at this time of the year, as it gets taller I don't notice the new foliage so much, and of course there is so much else around to look at, so this time of the year it is looking it's best in my eyes.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maren on May 27, 2012, 09:12:43 AM
Franz,

your Alpinum looks beautiful, such variety and so well arranged.  :)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Armin on May 27, 2012, 09:26:47 PM
Franz,
I concur to Maren's opinion. Simply great alpinium 8) 8) 8)

I hope the drought will not end up in too early dormacy of your various bulbs followed by a wet summer...(as it happend last year here).
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Michael J Campbell on May 27, 2012, 09:56:19 PM
Can't find a recent Calochortus thread, so I will just post them here. Maggi will move them if need be. :)

Calochortus albus
Calochortus albus
Calochortus albus var rubellus
Calochortus albus var rubellus. A cross between the two.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Michael J Campbell on May 27, 2012, 10:28:57 PM
Androsace cylindrica x hirtella.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 28, 2012, 10:25:08 AM
Here are a few from the garden this weekend.

1.  Iris 'Tabac Blond'
2.  Iris (unknown)
3.  Iris Hollandica 'Eye of the Tiger'
4.  Thalictrum (white)
5.  Thalictrum (pink)
6.  Iris siberica 'Hoar Edge'
7.  Iris 'Langport Wren'
8.  Maianthemum
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Rogan on May 28, 2012, 01:17:34 PM
I really do enjoy your Calochortus pictures, Michael. How do you get C. albus rubellus to germinate; I seem to have problems with that one as other species germinate without any trouble?
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Michael J Campbell on May 28, 2012, 07:14:30 PM
Rogan, I didn't notice any difference in the germination of Rubellus,were you using fresh seed?  I can send some seed if it sets any in a few weeks.  The seed just germinates in the bed where it falls, so I can take no credit for it. :)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Michael J Campbell on May 28, 2012, 09:30:43 PM
Edraianthus graminifolius
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Rogan on May 29, 2012, 06:36:18 AM
"I can send some seed if it sets any in a few weeks."

That's very kind of you to offer, Michael. I have tried seed from the SRGC exchange this year, so perhaps I should just be more patient. I'll give it a few more months and see if something appears - a spell in the fridge may also help as our winters never get really cold enough to stratify anything at all.

It is such a beautiful plant and certainly worth the effort to grow - if it were too easy we probably wouldn't want to grow it anyway...  ;D
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: hadacekf on May 29, 2012, 07:56:48 PM
Iris sintenisii
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Hoy on May 29, 2012, 10:14:43 PM
I have a couple rather similar but not quite Maianthemums. Here are two (any suggestions?) Not as colourful as some other plants shown here ;) but they get handsome berries in autumn.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David Shaw on May 30, 2012, 08:28:24 AM
Yes, Northern hemisphere. I obtained this as a small plant many, many years ago and labeled as "Anistome latifolia x Aciphylla dieffenbachii". It bear no resemblance to either of these (is a cross even possible?) and I believe it to be "Aciphylla colensoi" unless anyone has other suggestions.
It was a great surprise to see it start to flower earlier in the month because my book of wisdoms says that it does not, north of Coventry - actually it says in 'cooler climates' but it is the same thing! The same book also says that it needs a male and female to produce seed. I hope that this is correct as I don't want to be weeding babies of this out of the garden.
I wonder if the Gardening Scotland team would like it for the display!!!!!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Lesley Cox on May 30, 2012, 12:08:40 PM
Your Aciphylla is very handsome David, a real talking point (forgive me). While Aciphylla and Anisotome are both carrot family, I've not heard of any bi-generic hybrids. Yours looks like pure Aciphylla.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 30, 2012, 03:29:43 PM
The garden is colouring up fast now and here are a few more.

1.  Clematis 'Westerplatte'
2.  unnamed Iris Germanica
3.  Clematis 'Josephine'
4.  Papaver orientale 'Patty's Plum'
5.  Clematis 'The Vagabond'
6.  Cistus x Halimiocistus wintonensis
7.  Verbascum phoenicuem
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 30, 2012, 03:41:15 PM
and.......

1.  Centaurea
2.  Aquilegia
3.  Allium
4.  Orlaya grandiflora
5.  An unusual local bird
6.  Amsonia tabernaemontana var. salicifolia
7.  Phytolacca acinosa (in bud)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: gerrit on May 30, 2012, 09:11:58 PM
Growing in my peatbed these beautiful unknown Meconopsis. I wonder if anyone could help identifying.
I got seed from the NTS and they are in the 4th year of growing. I live in Holland and cultivation of M. is not easy, due to extreme weatherconditions.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Michael J Campbell on May 31, 2012, 09:12:36 PM
Loasa coccinea. (Caiophora andina) ?

This is a very vicious plant with a sting like a wasp.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Tim Ingram on May 31, 2012, 11:18:47 PM
David - what beautifully taken moments in the garden. I've never noticed those darker blue spots towards the centre of the Amsonia flowers? And Michael's Caiophora! I'm not sure stinging hairs work because the flower almost makes you want to hold it! I think this must be the same plant that I once saw at West Acre in Norfolk, quite a big bush. We used to grow a climbing species (acuminata??) which came as seed from Brenda Anderson, and reseeded for several years. Quite a talking point.

These are a few umbellifers flowering at the moment.

    Ferula communis
    Laserpitium siler
    Athamanta turbith
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: David King on May 31, 2012, 11:54:37 PM
David - what beautifully taken moments in the garden. I've never noticed those darker blue spots towards the centre of the Amsonia flowers?

I think we all fail to notice details in flowers whereas the photos give us time to study the detail.  This is a photo of the whole group in the garden.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: annew on June 08, 2012, 10:01:29 PM
Beautiful, I love amsonias, and can't understand why they are not seen more often.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: KentGardener on June 09, 2012, 09:39:33 AM
I have recently been given a new SLR camera and am struggling to get to grips with it.  Wasn't going to post this slightly out of focus picture I took in May - but have decided to as it is my favourite Solomon Seal and such a lovely looking thing.

Polygonatum 'Golden Gift'
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Leena on November 20, 2012, 08:30:49 AM
I'n not sure if this is the right topic, but I wanted to show a picture of my Glaucidium palmatum leucanthemum flowering last may  :). I have only these white ones,  I have grown them from seeds bought from jelitto 2006, and last year and this year I have sent seeds from these plants to the seed exchange.
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Tim Ingram on November 20, 2012, 09:49:42 AM
What a lovely setting for such a beautiful plant!
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Leena on November 20, 2012, 09:55:42 AM
Thank you. :)
They are great plants, when they are in flower, I have to go and look at them many times per day. :)
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: fleurbleue on November 20, 2012, 10:02:20 AM
I understand that, Leena  ;) A very nice clump !
Title: Re: May 2012 in the Northern Hemisphere
Post by: Maggi Young on November 20, 2012, 10:55:17 AM
Quote
I have only these white ones,  I have grown them from seeds bought from jelitto 2006, and last year and this year I have sent seeds from these plants to the seed exchange.

And very popular they will surely  be in the Exchange - everyone seems enchanted by these white gems!
Thank you, Leena!
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