20th May
Yesterday a few residents and carer's took advantage of the warm weather and explored the gardens at Swarthmore. The gardens have been planted over many years with the approach that they are set to grow though the seasons. We have winding paths around the grounds with resting points to sit and admire the scenery. Some of the trees and shrubs are labelled for those who have an interest.
Currently we have a whole side of the building covered in a beautiful wisteria which not only looks amazing but also smells divine. Our knowledgeable residents named other shrubs and plants as we meandered through the immense borders.
We came across a few trees that no-one could identify so we attempted some research on the spot. A mobile App that can identify plants, trees and fruits by taking a picture of the item in question. The App runs a full description of the plant with additional pictures. Its fantastic!
We identified the following:
Atlas Cedar - low maintenance, evergreen tree that brings interest and texture to your garden all year round. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Offers a wonderful aroma and a songbird habitat. The wild population is considered as a threatened IUCN Red List since 2013. It is categorised as endangered, which is very likely to become extinct in the near future.
Honey Locust - tiny leaves open up in shades of yellow in Spring, before turning green as it get more sun over the Summer. The seed pods that are produced at the end of Summer have historically been used as a coffee substitute.
Golden Chain Tree - ornamental species in borders. Its name comes from the cascading yellow flowers that bloom in late Spring.
Perennial Cornflower - a herbaceous perennial that can grow over 70cm high. They thrive in direct sunlight and attract butterflies.
Spanish Iris - striking lilac, white and yellow flower. 'Xiphium' is the Greek word for sword, given to the flower because of the shape of its leaves. The term Iris is Greek for rainbow. The Spanish Iris is a source of orrisroot which is a valuable ingredient used in perfume.
The afternoon was made complete with a cuppa on the patio.......
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