GBBD December 2010

The Himalayan Sage has profuse blue flowerss which bloom in winter.

The Bishop's Cloak is starting to put out its rose red flower bracts.

This is one of the roses which bloom in all seasons. It is a favourite of temple goers.

The white chrysanthemum is another favouriteoffering at the temple.

This Pentas has a delicate colour which attracts butterflies.

These are some of the flowers blooming now in my garden. Thanks to Carol for hosting the Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day on the 15th of every month.

Chess Flowers

The game of chess originated in India in the distant past. Although modern chess has changed a lot, it is also a game of war, like the ancient version. In the ancient version, the rook was called the' elephant', the knight- 'horse', the bishop 'camel, and the pawns 'foot soldiers'.The king was of course the 'Maharaja', and the Queen was 'Prime minister'. Below are the pictures of some of the flowers which have associations with the game of chess.

The Bishop's Cloak Magaskepasma erythrochalmis has started putting out its deep pink flower bracts. They resemble the red ginger from a distance.

The Queen's Tears, Russelia equisetiformis has attractive tubular flowers and needle like leaves. It also comes in pale yellow and white.

The Cup of Gold, Solandra grandiflora has started flowering after a winter rest.

The Maharaja's Plume, Alpinia purpurata has not stopped flowering. Don't the flowers look a bit like the Bishop's Cloak?