Wild Potato!

  The early morning hours never fail in bringing new discoveries and delightful finds.  At daybreak, I was on the pier listening to the sounds of the world awakening.  With humans being more or less reluctant to rise before the sun, this time is dominated by the critter world.  I sit mesmerized by the melodies of the Bayou.  Of course, it is not only the sounds that are intriguing.  Many wondrous sights abound at that time, as well.  Like I said, most folks never see what the world has to offer because they do not take the time to roam about before dawn.  This morning as I was aimlessly wandering about the place, I noticed a rather large, white flower in the palmettoes.  Since, cottonmouths are also out at this time, I made a mental note to come back when I could see better and photograph the bloom.  

  I admit to forgetting about my intentions for a good while since cutting back a lot of the overgrowth near the pier took up far more time than intended.  It is hard, hot work but, if not done, the place gets quite snaky.  Once the chore was accomplished, it was picture-taking time!  The bloom was still in perfect condition!  So, I braved the palmetto clump to get close enough for a clear photo.  Ahh, lovely!

  This is the bloom of a wild potato!  It is a naturally occurring plant around this area (and most everywhere).  It prefers to be in some of the most inhospitable environments, however, such as the midst of the palmetto clump.  It is a vining plant with heart shaped leaves and a four inch bloom that is white with a rich, violet center.  Looking at the bloom, it is easy to see that it belongs to the morning glory family.  

  Most folks would deem this as a weed and probably use some chemical weed killer on it but I, on the other hand, love the wildflowers that dot the area.  This find brightened my day so, instead of a weed, it is indeed a "glory" and shall grow where it may.