birdieopolis

at this time of the year little botanical treasures can be missed if you don't step outside at just the right moment. one jewel i'm glad i didn't miss is this Rhododendron schlippenbachii that only blooms in years that it feels like it. last fall i pruned the vine maples that were growing so huge that they were cutting out quite a bit of light over this shrub. i guess the rhodie is rewarding me for allowing more light to reach its lovely emerald green obovate leaves with its delightful diaphanous petals.