During the fall and winter months, I like the changing colors of Heavenly bamboo, Nandina domestica. It changes color from bronze to green to red. It does well in shade or full sun and takes little water. Most of my garden is made up of native and adapted plants, however this one is not included because it can be invasive. I need to remove the berries before the birds do. In the spring, I will remove old, weak, or winter-damaged stems. Also, to keep the plant full, I will cut some of the stems to the ground, which will encourage new growth from the base. This is one of my favorite spots in my garden, right now.
I recently planted Gaura lindheimeri (that was in a large container) in front of the heavenly bamboo. The foliage has a tinge of maroon with dark green. I was happy to see this little bloom this morning.
I am thankful for the pretty, colorful foliage this time of year. It is a welcomed change in my garden. I love to look out the window and see it changing over time.
Also, I am very thankful that I did not get bitten by the baby rattlesnake I discovered in my front bed yesterday. That was very scary! Now, someone needs to find it again and take it somewhere far, far, away! It has definitely made me more aware of how careful I need to be working outside in the garden. In fact, I may not work in it for awhile. :/
There's no place like Austin, Texas! In this gardening blog, I have tried to focus mainly on native and adapted plants for Central Texas! I think it is the true secret to a successful garden in this great state!
7 comments:
Oh my! Are rattlesnakes common there?
They are...unfortunately. My neighbor across the street had one in her yard and had someone come out and relocate it. I know that Cat had a LARGE one in her yard.
Ugh!! I do NOT like snakes, esp. poisonous ones. I'm so glad you saw it before it decided to defend itself.
Yikes! Haven't seen any rattlers around here...yet. That's a bit surprising, with all this rock.
Only little rat snakes, so far.
My nandina is looking a bit worn, after the summer. I have a lot of shrubs to replace...all large ones...ugh Big bucks and big holes.
You know how much fun it is to dig holes here.
Love that first picture.
Be careful out there in the garden.
I love snakes, but have a very cautious respect for the rattlers. Fortunately, we don't see them here often, although when we do, some have been quite impressive in size! I'm thankful you weren't bitten too! I do like the look of the Nandina this time of year, but twice now I've cut one all the way to the ground in the front of the house (a remnant of the previous owner's garden) and twice, it's come back stronger than ever. Next time...I need to reach for the shovel, as it's already seeded a few strays.
Ack!! So glad you saw that snake in time to avoid it. I've seen enough poisonous snakes this season to last me a lifetime.
Oh dear - I would be way to scared to go into the garden now.
I love your Gaura - very pretty :)
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