The calendar says December, and the weather agrees, but in spite of this, there is still some lovely fall color at the Arboretum. The columnar American Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua cv. Slender Silhouette) next to the parking lot, is stubbornly hanging on to its colorful orange and gold star shaped leaves, a lovely contrast against the clear blue sky. The Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) next to the Haggerty Education Center presents a pretty picture with the rusty red leaves providing a nice backdrop for the dried, creamy white flower heads. Last, but certainly not least, are the brilliant red compound leaves of Leatherleaf Mahonia (Mahonia bealei) making a brilliant statement in the late fall garden.
It may be chilly, but bundle up and take a walk around the grounds to see what Mother Nature has to offer.
Picture credits: Margery Ennist.
