Sunday, May 27, 2012

Blossom bonanza



There are two more tree species coming into bloom at the marsh now.  The hawthorn trees are just beautiful (top photo).  Most of the ones at the marsh I believe are English hawthorn (deeply lobed, small leaves).  The bottom shot is of the one Autumn Olive tree at the marsh (Elaeagnus umbellata).  The blossoms are very fragrant, and the bees were having a heyday in the canopy.  The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Fruit Lab has given it a new name - Auntumberry, as the tree bears red berries in September which are edible and can be used to make jams & sauces.  However, in the States the tree has been placed on the invasive species list.  The berries of both of these trees are favored by birds.

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