Mid-May blooms

We are trying to landscape with mostly native species, so Cheryl chose an Iris Virginica L. in stead of a bearded Iris last fall. It has produced its first blossom today -

This iris is supposed to like damp areas, and we don't really have any except the culvert under the driveway. We planted it at the mouth of the drainage system, next to the dry stream bed and hope it likes it there.

Meanwhile, the two large Mountain Laurel at the lowest part of the property are just starting to look grand, while those above and behind the house are just promising to flower. Cheryl's Mom had not seen a Mountain Laurel in bloom until her last visit here, a year ago.



A closeup of the 10-petal flowers. They remind you of peppermints.