Tabebuia Trees Spring Blooms

Common name(s): Golden trumpet tree

Family: Bignoniaceae

USDA hardiness zones: 9B through 11

Origin: native to Central and South America

This last week I was surprised by the sudden blooms of bright yellow on trees in the neighborhood. I wasn’t familiar with the species. I did some research on the golden trees. Tabebuias are from the West Indies, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, and Central America, but several species are very well adapted to South Florida. I was thrilled to find the golden beauties here in central Florida. Since they are tropical plants, they WON’T SURVIVE HARD FREEZES.

Read More

The Many Lakes of Lakeland

When you drive around Lakeland, you pass lots of lakes. The City of Lakeland says that there are a total of 38 named lakes within City limits as well as numerous smaller lakes. Sizes among the 38 named lakes range from 2.5 acres (Lake Blanton) to 2,272 acres (Lake Parker) of which 17 are natural and 21 are man-made. Lake Parker is the large lake behind my condo development. Today I’m sharing a few photos of another lake I passed in my drives.

Read More

A Walk To The Lake

I must say I am very tired. I am also bruised. Yes, I am still surrounded by boxes. I don’t mind taking my time unpacking, but I still don’t have my basic cooking equipment unpacked. I am using one large frying pan for everything. I have to find some pots today. Don’t ask me why, but I am craving potato salad, my potato salad not a grocery store’s salad.

Today’s photos were taken during a walk to the lake next to the condos. I hope you enjoy them. First is a view of the courtyard.

Read More