MinxterBLOOM

Pinxterbloom -- besides the perfect monitor for a sweet feline -- is the name of a native azalea in the mid Atlantic.  The Latin name is Rhododendron periclymenoides. The National Arboretum on New York Avenue on the gritty side of DC has several specimens.  I appreciate the shell pink outer petal and raspberry creamcicle interior.  The branching, open habit of this species shrub is another charming feature.

You can make the leap to the name of this blog.  I am happy to try on the minx persona as I nurture, cajole, and on some days, seduce plants into bloom. 

Here is a photo of Pinxterbloom stamens by Nevia Cashwell.  The photo posted here is by Thomas G. Barnes, working for the USDA.

Photo courtesy of the USDA plant images database : See this entry to learn more about this special plant.