Gone to seed
December 20, 2007
Sweet Autumn clematis seed
A few days ago, while examining the garden for evidence of frost, I noticed the whirligig design of these sweet Autumn clematis (Clematis terniflora ) seeds and paused for a closer look.
Like feather-tailed tadpoles on a stem, they look as if they’re ready to be borne aloft on the next breeze.
The seeds on the arching plumes of ‘Adagio’ miscanthus grass were nearly as intriguing.
There’s so much beauty to be found in even the quietest garden view. Do you have a quiet scene you particularly enjoy right now?
Stunning photos. The garden is so very quiet now but the birds at the feeders are ravenous, breaking the silence. For a different perspective on that give a look to ‘isn’t there enough to keep up with’ http://www.freewebs.com/brokenbeat/. Post title Winter IV.
I hear so much about the birds in more-northern gardens in winter. Their activity and color certainly bring life to the dormant winter garden, don’t they? —Pam
Lovely detail shots, Pam! It’s finally starting to look like fall down there, I see.
Yes, December is our typical month for fall foliage and seeds. By February, spring will be making its presence known. Winter is very short around here. —Pam
Just beautiful. I will have to look around to see if I can find some seeds similar to these. I have sunflower seedlings popping up under the bird feeders. UGH…The next cold spell will take care of those.
Clematis seeds always delight me. Do you grow any clematis? I also really love the seedheads of inland sea oats, which you may call northern sea oats. I hope you find some seeds to delight you in your garden, Lisa. —Pam
Sweet Autumn seed is quite lovely. The ground is so saturated here with melting snow, I don’t venture outside unless I’m filling the bird feeders.
I’m glad you have your birds to brighten up your winter garden, Robin. How soon will you be looking for the robins? 🙂 —Pam
It’s always nice when you have a plant with multiple seasonal interest. Those pictures look great!
Thanks for dropping by, Dave. —Pam
Nice! My garden does not feel quiet right now. Lots of things coming up. Lots of swelling leaf and flower buds. I love the times of quiet seedheads and pre-deadheadings.
I’m not sure your garden ever feels quiet, Chuck. Your California winter especially seems like a fecund gardening season. —Pam
Wow, Pam 😀
I visited to see your Christmas post but I was drawn to comment on this one! What fantastic photos – I so love to see the seed heads on plants. The winter garden is really quite magical isn’t it 😀
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and Happy Gardening in 2008 😀
Yes, it is magical. The light is so different, and the garden feels cleaner without the heavy summer growth. I hope you’re enjoying your winter garden too. Merry Xmas! —Pam
Isn’t Clematis one of the most interesting plants in all phases? I love it! These are such beautiful photos Pam.