The FIRST Rose of Summer

 We've always heard about the last rose of summer - that's kind of a sad thing, isn't it. Well the first rose of summer is definitely a happier event, in my opinion. This is one of the Rosa rugosa varieties with a lovely color, form, fragrance. Clicking on photos will enlarge them.

Rosa rugosa

This volunteer species honeysuckle bush appeared in my garden, has lovely pink lowers, and also a great fragrance. It fills the garden with its aroma. It struggled for the first few years but, as you can see, it's doing lots better now. The wild honeysuckles here come in shades, of white, yellow, cream, and pink. I'm glad this one turned out to be pink. Green and pink just seem to go together.

Diervilla lonicera

Diervilla lonicera

Diervilla lonicera

Norway maples have escaped from cultivation in some areas of the states and are being discouraged. We've lost many native trees and, imo, they could add some diversity. But what do I know. The original Norway maples come with green leaves, of course. An older variety with bronzy purple leaves is nearby this newer golden yellow variety. There's also a variety with green leaves edged with white. This gold plant is a standout.

 lost 

Acer platanoides Princeton Norway Maple

Acer platanoides Princeton Norway Maple

Dame's Rocket is a delightful fragrant member of the brassica family. Near relatives include mustard, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, etc.  They say like its relatives, it's edible. Hmmm! It resembles phlox, which flowers later in the summer, but it is not related. 

Hesperis matronalis - Dames Rocket

Hesperis matronalis - Dames Rocket

Bristly locusts are a legume and therefore a pioneer species for open land. They can grow as tall as ten feet but that's rather uncommon. Their rose colored flowers are not fragrant and resemble all other members of the group like Redbuds, peas, beans, locust trees (black and honey), clovers, et cetera.

Robinia hispidia - Bristly Locust

Robinia hispidia - Bristly Locust

Kit goes to class on Wednesdays and Tryggur goes to class on Thursdays. It's a very long drive but the scenery is beautiful so I really don't mind. I see many interesting plants and homes along the way. They are doing well in their classes. Smart dogs. Kennel dad is not as quick.