Colorful Spring

Spring is busting out with lush bushiness and splashes of flowers.  Finally the Cistus purpureus 'Alba' is blooming.  It's been in the ground since late spring of 2012 and this year we have blooms and buds just covering this smallish shrub.  It is placed next to a Euphorbia characas and the California poppies have volunteered at its feet, nice combination.  These are all drought tolerant and not fussy about soil but do need good drainage.  Another Mediterranean favorite, Echium candicans, Star of Maderia, commonly known as variegated Pride of Maderia has increased in size dramatically since last year.  It also went into the garden in 2012 from a one gallon pot, it is near its maturity of 6 by 6 foot now.  Research states it is hardy down to 25 degrees and this past frigid winter put it to test.  I must admit that I watched this shrub carefully since fall and hand watered it throughout the fall and winter, I now have a beautiful reward with a healthy and vigorous display of variegation and the first bloom is just opening.  

Pride of Maderia (photos by Trisha Rose)

Cistus and California poppies.

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