Tag Archives: plants

musings, nature, Photography

Friday Flower

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It may be snow white up here in NWT, but for that reason, I think it’s time for a Friday flower.

Lavender in the drying process.

The photo above, taken a couple of years ago, is of a bunch from one of my lavender pots. Lavender is said to bring luck. In ancient times, it was burned in bonfires to ward off evil or to entice good fortune.

Despite its reputation as an “old lady” flower, I have always loved it for its fragrance and pretty purple flowers. Dried, it can last a long time; I like to keep it in my closet to repel moths, and outside, it repels mosquitoes.

Large lavender bush.

And, as if that’s not enough, lavender scent will help you to sleep, and more deeply, as well.

It’s certainly one of nature’s beautiful presents. Do you grow lavender?

Happy Friday; happy weekend. 🙂

Commentary, musings, nature, Photography

Wild Rose Hips

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If you like rose hip jelly …

… a trip to the north might be on your agenda. We truly have a bumper crop. They are quite large – bigger than cultivated blueberries – and plentiful. They pack high levels of vitamins C and D as well as a substance that fights inflammation.

I’m not sure what this means. A longer winter? We had a long one last year, even by the north’s standards. So, if that’s the case …

… maybe we should just leave them to the bears. We humans have enough.

Happy Monday. Have a good week. 🙂

nature, Photography

Oregon Grape-Holly

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These interesting-looking bushes can be found everywhere throughout the Okanagan Valley.

Grape-Holly!

Known as Oregon Grape-Holly, or just Oregon Grape (mahonia aquafolium), they are not related to either grapes or holly.

Native to North America, they extend along the western coast from Mexico all the way to Alaska. They are a great fit for the Okanagan valley as they are very drought resistant and the leaves will remain green very late into the year.

Oregon Grape-Holly explodes in pretty yellow flowers very early in spring, and is a welcome harbinger.

The purple grape-like berries are edible and can be turned into jelly or wine and the holly-like leaves are often used in wreathes. Birds love the berries.

Greetings from the versatile Grape-Holly of the Okanagan Valley, and happy weekend. 🙂