Late summer at The Arboretum

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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.

Monarch on Joe-pye weed

I also enjoyed finding several clumps of bright-purple Ironweed (Vernonia altissima).

Ironweed

However, my biggest surprise was a large patch of beautiful Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) and Blue Lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica) near the bridge over the wetland area.

Cardinal Flower garden

The shaded boardwalk surrounded by brilliant red blooms created a very special garden. If you live nearby, it’s worth a visit to see it.

6 thoughts on “Late summer at The Arboretum”

  1. Those cardinal flowers are remarkable; they really pop out in the shade. What a gorgeous spot that is! I walked at the arboretum this morning and realized that I need to find the time to have a nice slow wander over there. Thanks for the photos.

  2. I really like these photos Betty, beautiful blooms and a beautiful butterfly.
    The photo with the Ironweed in the foreground could be a Jersey scene, such
    lovely green countryside, and the Lobelia Cardinalis is such a striking plant. What a wonderful display of summer flowers!

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