6.02.2009

Tulips From The Treetops



It's tulip time...again. But now, it's the tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera)--one of the lords of the eastern woodland forests--that rules. These massive trees often protrude above the forest canopy; they're among the tallest trees in the woods. And, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful. When I was a kid, I loved gazing up at their long, arrow-straight trunks. I still do. We're fortunate enough to have several, and this morning I walked outside to discover a perfect flower had fallen. Usually we just get beat-up bits and pieces on the ground, so finding a whole blossom is a treat. I'm always enchanted by their lime-chartreuse and orangey yellow egg-yolk colors.

1 comment:

Carol said...

What a lovely gift from your tulip tree! I would love to grow them here in Western Ma. but not sure ... maybe too cold. Beautiful photo and text to compliment. PS I love Beth Dow's website!! She is a very gifted artist. I too 'appreciate' formal gardens especially the ones Beth has captured... there is always so much to learn from well thought out and poetic gardens.