When we lived in Colorado, I always grew Pineapple Sage (Salvia elegans) for its delightfully pineapple-scented leaves, but rarely got to see it in bloom. This herb is such a late bloomer that we invariably had our first frost before the flowers developed. Here in Georgia, this is not a problem. I love the stalks of bright red flowers, and so do the hummingbirds. Our Pineapple Sage has been in bloom for about three weeks now. Last week we had a Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) visiting the shrub very early in the morning, just before dawn, but the days are getting cooler now and I have not seen the little fellow this week. Presumably he has left on his annual migration to warmer climates for the winter.
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| By gypsymarestudios |
I really enjoy this Indian summer time of year. The mornings are always cool now, but the days heat up nicely. Leaves are still mostly green, but just enough have turned to let you know that autumn colors are not far off. Most of our beautiful butterflies are gone, except for a few Tiger Swallowtails, Gulf Fritillaries, and a lone Monarch Butterfly taking advantage of the shrubs that are still in flower. Pretty little Cloudless Sulphur Butterflies (Phoebis sennae) are common, but soon even they will disappear when the days become colder.
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| From Field and Swamp: Animals and Their Habitats |
Until then, I will continue to enjoy this gorgeous weather and my beautiful garden and its visitors!
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| Pineapple Sage flowering stalk, with our fabulous fig tree (Ficus carica 'Brown Turkey') in the background |
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