Our autumn colors are quite beautiful, and the sweetgum trees (Liquidambar styraciflua) are especially showy. Their unique five-pointed, star-shaped leaves are now sometimes gold.
Category: Locations
Monarchs at the Arboretum
I was delighted to see several monarchs at The Lexington Arboretum yesterday. This is one of five that I saw nectaring, and I’m confident there were more.
Banded Tussock Moth caterpillars
Harry and I recently visited Natural Bridge State Resort Park. It’s a bit early for autumn color, and getting late for many insects. I wasn’t sure what we’d see, and I was glad to find several different caterpillars.
This is a curled up Banded Tussock Moth caterpillar (Halysidota tessellaris). I’m guessing the arrangement of the stiff spines discourages predators, and I’m intrigued by the design. At first glance, it’s hard to tell it’s a caterpillar.
Late summer at The Arboretum
I’m grateful to live near The Arboretum and to be able to observe and learn from the diversity of plants. On a recent walk, I was delighted to find several native perennials with colorful blooms.
I like the soft mauve color of Joe-pye Weed (Eupatorium fistulosum), and it was a special treat to see a Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) on this one.
Arboretum art exhibit
The Lexington Arboretum continues to be one of my favorite places in Lexington, and I enjoy their annual Glories of the Garden art exhibit. The following information is from their website:
Glories of the Garden Art Exhibit: February 17 – March 9
Over 50 pieces of art inspired by nature – featuring oils, watercolors, photography, metal and more
Open to the public during Visitor Center hours: Mon. – Fri., 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
I’m pleased that my “Water lily and raindrops” photograph is included.