Monday, 12 March 2012

Citrus

Malcolm chose a Skimmia japonica shrub with some of his birthday money last year.  All winter this little plant has been sitting in it's pot on the patio, covered with flower buds.  These have now started to open and produce a froth of pink-flushed, white flowers against the dark, evergreen foliage.
A member of the Rutaceae family, they are related to citrus fruits, lemons, oranges, etc.  Their flowers are small, but when seen close up, they make up for their size by their simple beauty.  Four bright yellow anthers, covered in pollen and a nectar-rich central, green ovary and a charming scent.  Just the thing!

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