The native clematis * (clematis microphylla) is flowering in profusion again at this time of year.
Although this vigorous climber is seen throughout Australia, excepting the Northern Territory, I am intrigued that it was not seen at all in this area during my childhood. However, I have often commented that much of the area where we now live was a quite degraded environment back then, being largely grassy sheep paddocks bare of other vegetation. With the subdivision of those paddocks for housing in the 1960's and 70's, many people planted Australian native plants. Some of which, like this clematis, have flourished and seeded abundantly.
These photos were taken on the sand dunes and clifftops where the clematis forms its masses of flowers as it climbs over the top of other low growing plants.
The mass of the flowers is quite spectacular for its density.
Here it is growing over a 'tea tree' * (leptospermum laevigatum).
My 'recycled' ikebana uses the apricot branches that I used in the 'Arts Trail' exhibition last week which have now produced some dainty white flowers in the warmth of our living room.
I have contrasted them with the Japanese Flowering Quince that were also in that previous arrangement. They are now somewhat more pale. The salt glazed vase is by Gail Nicholls * (the link also includes other ceramic artists).
If you are in Melbourne between 6th and 16th of September be sure to catch the Ikebana International Annual Exhibition in the Community Gallery of the Melbourne Town Hall.
Greetings from Christopher
27th August 2016
* Click on the blue text for further information
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