LittleSister's Blog at GardenStew.com

So what is it? * Updated

LittleSister — Thu, 02 Nov 2006 21:13:09 -0500

Author: LittleSister
Posted: Fri Nov 03, 2006 2:13 am (GMT 0)

I was told this was a Coral Vine, but it certainly doesn't look like one, nor is it a vine. It's a small tree, large bush. The flowers resemble slipper flowers and has wicked sharp thorns.

It's about 6 foot tall. It dies back and returns year after year. It's about 22 years old.

Been on the corner of my grandmothers porch for nearly as long as I can remember. I know us kids hated it because of the thorns, you have to be careful running off the porch lol

I thought I wanted to take some with me until I saw what a job it was going to be to get any of it. Have no clue if it can be started with a slip or not.

At least I got photos earlier so I can see it whenever I want. The old house is slated to be torn down next year.

Well, well. I found out what it is.

Erythrina crista-galli Cockspur Coral Tree

Close enough to the coral vine name I guess. Can grow up to 20 feet. I wonder if the colder climate keeps it this small?

I can start one with either the seeds or softwood cuttings in early summer, or semi-ripe cuttings in late summer, both with bottom heat.

The last hurrah!

LittleSister — Thu, 02 Nov 2006 17:30:29 -0500

Author: LittleSister
Posted: Thu Nov 02, 2006 10:30 pm (GMT 0)

I have been so busy with packing and organizing that I miss being out with the flowers.

Dh bought me a new camera so I thought I'd take some pics of my current garden to relax. The bugs must be getting ready for a well earned vacation soon as they were everywhere.

I'm hoping to be able to take some of these lovely blooms with me. They are still blooming their hearts out right now. Nice to see a bit of color when the days get shorter.

A Brand New Clean Slate

LittleSister — Sun, 22 Oct 2006 08:32:25 -0400

Author: LittleSister
Posted: Sun Oct 22, 2006 12:32 pm (GMT 0)

I'm moving from Birmingham, Alabama to Mandeville, Louisiana. I get to start all over again!

Please ignore the mess, I've not even been in the house yet. My dh and the realtor picked it out. My first day will be the day we move!

The front yard from the front porch. Love the little statue and round part of the sidewalk

The driveway. I'm looking forward to finding out what those bushes are.

Front of house from driveway. There are plants in planters sitting around out there. Dh will water and move them to the porch when he goes next.

The left side is mostly sand.

From the far side of the fence. Not sure what that tree is.

Looking to the opposite corner across the yard. Seems to have lots of shade on this side but lots of sun in the back.

On the back deck looking towards the other side of the yard. I was told that was a fig tree there.

The compass directions so I can tell what to put where :-)

I can't wait to start digging!