LOTUS BUDS, FLOWERS, PODS and a SURPRISE ANNOUNCEMENT

We were in Melbourne on Friday and Saturday this week so we had an early morning walk around the Royal Melbourne Botanical Gardens, before the heat of the day hit. (The temperature got up to 44 C on Friday afternoon).



This pavilion in the gardens is called the Temple of the Winds and sits on a high rocky outcrop overlooking the Yarra River to the north. Around it are plants tolerant of poor quality dry soils because of the rocky soil and the exposure to the north.



At this time of year the 'herbaceous border', in front of the former residence of the garden's Director, is absolutely in its prime. This lovely building is no longer a residence but is used as a reception venue. 


We have been watching the level of the ornamental lake slowly getting lower, with some concern. The heavy rain in November helped considerably to maintain an acceptable level. If there is sufficient intermittent rain we may be spared from seeing the mud at the bottom.



However, enjoying the mud, the garden staff have planted 'Sacred Lotus', nelumbo nucifera, at  the edge of the lake. This is the first time I have seen this plant in the gardens and it looks a treat. The botanic gardens in Adelaide South Australia also have a wonderful pond that is full of them in the summer.

     

I think this alone is a good enough reason to call the flower 'sacred'. I have never before seen such a luminous lotus flower.


      

Neither have I seen the seed capsule forming within the flower before...

      

...and this...
                   ...sublime nature.

On Monday morning last week Laurie and I were given this huge bouquet of flowers, to celebrate our marriage that was to take place later that day.



Laurie is in the background reflected in the mirror. Here is a link to some wedding photos.


By the end of the week I had to deconstruct the bouquet. I salvaged the lotus pods and teamed them with two agapanthus flowers in this simple vertical arrangement for a party at Torquay.

Greetings from Christopher
21st January 2018


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