A Moment of Silence

We generally like to keep this blog on the upbeat side of the fence. However, this week we were saddened to learn that one of our favorite local plant landmarks was cut down and hauled off, like yesterday's trash. You know how it is when you drive by or walk by an old, majestic tree on a regular basis -- it becomes a waypoint in your mental map of happy places; or a giant rose bush that greets your journey through the seasons, perhaps even providing a symbolic pat on the back as your day evolves. 

One of my favorite local botanical landmarks was a very old and stately Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans). It was living by a small, run down, seemingly abandoned house on the south edge of town. Several times a week for the past dozen years, we drove by this home on the way to town and back. This plant was really the bright spot in the otherwise broken down structure; the contrast it provided was memorable and impressive, so we really hope there was a good reason to chop it down.

Trumpet vines, also called Hummingbird vines and Trumpet Creepers, look very tropical and exotic. As the name implies, the large, orange, trumpet-shaped flowers are very popular with hummers. These vines are native to the Eastern U.S., and have become naturalized in warmer areas of the west. They can grow aggressively and in some areas are considered invasive. 

As a small homage to this fine, hardy plant, we will try to get one going here on our own property. Luckily, I stopped by the vine's location on July 4th after watching the local parade. It was blooming profusely so I snapped a few pictures, seen here. 

Front View. Entry door completely covered!

Entry steps are behind this growth.

Exotic looking blossoms add color to the drab house.

Side view from mini-mart parking lot.

August 23rd. We believe it was removed the day before.