Se7en signs of spring

Too many fabulous signs of spring to count; but here are se7en (in a pathetic attempt to link to the theme):

1. The Giant Himalayan Lily (Cardiocrinum giganteum) looks magnificent, and is developing several offsets and a stalk, so perhaps it will bloom this year. If it does, it will serve as the angel on high, towering over the devil garden (flowering stalks can reach 8-12 feet high).

2. Devil garden tulips, blooms are impending, but the variegated foliage is so fabulous, I'm already thrilled. Tulipa greigii 'Fire of Love' on the left and Tulipa acuminata 'Fire Flame' on the right.

   

3. Fritillaria persica (Persian lily), about a foot high so far, gorgeous blue-grey foliage.

 4. Spring foliage in many colors and forms. (Click on the photo for a better view of these plants.)

5. Podophyllum pleianthum (the podophyllum delavayi is MIA, I really hope it shows up)

 6. Early flowers! Clematis koreana and of course the Mt Fuji cherry, in glorious bloom.

 7. Hungry chickadees, taking turns at the feeder.

the devil may wear a hat, but his nether parts are exposed...

Behold the Devil's Hat in all its glory (aka Butterbur, aka Petasites hybridus). This plant came to me last year from Jungle Fever Exotics. The leaves were huge and magnificent last summer, 2 feet across. Since this is my first spring with this plant, I didn't know to expect these early flower stalks. Nether parts from the netherworld...ooh la la!

And Hell is in its name-o...

(to the tune of Bingo was his name-o...)
I know it's a stretch to call this a hellish plant, but this black purple Hellebore from Heronswood deserved its photo taken today. Planted in spring 2006, it gets larger and more striking each year. I think I got this plant at the last pre-"death by Burpee" plant sale, and am so very glad for the ongoing resurrection of the Heronswood gardens.