Fall has officially arrived, but there is still much color to be found in the autumn gardens at the Arboretum. A Cornus kousa (Kousa Dogwood) is covered with a multitude of ornamental (and edible) globose, reddish, compound berries about the size of a cherry. Numerous patches of lavender Colchicum autumnale (Autumn Crocus) are blooming all over the grounds; in spite of its name, this plant is not in the crocus family, it is deadly poisonous, however. Almost hidden in the beds as you come up the driveway from Hanover Avenue is the fascinating Tricyrtis hirta (Toad Lily), its jewel-like flowers blooming on arching, unbranched stems. Fall is fleeting, so make plans to visit soon!
Picture credits: Margery Ennist.
Tricyrtis Hirta
Tricyrtis Hirta
Cornus Kousa Fruit
Cornus Kousa Fruit
Colchicum Rain Drops
Colchicum Rain Drops