Magnolia Pods

Magnolia Grandiflora. Southern Magnolia just about screams Deep South as much as Live Oaks draped in Spanish Moss, wide front porches and sweet tea. These wonderful, big old trees with their massive blooms have always extended a welcoming as much as "Come on up on the front porch and sit a spell". The Deep South would not be the same without this wonderful tree. The scent of its blooms wafting on the bay breeze is one of the most amazing experiences. Not many people can pass by this tree in bloom and not stop to sniff..sniff again..pull down a branch and sniff..oh man, that is awesome! If only we could duplicate that scent..many have tried but it is never exact. Today though, it is not about the blooms nor the aroma, I viewed another beauty of this tree. This time of year the seed pods are turning bright red and seem to stand out like beacons against the glossy green leaves. The pod looks like some sort of cone but is actually the fruit of the Magnolia tree. The almost velvety covering makes it look like it would be soft but it is hard to the touch. In late September, the pod will burst open to reveal the even brighter red seeds. Once that happens, it will be just a matter of days before the seeds disappear..the squirrels and birds will feast. But for the moment, the tree is again beautiful..once covered in white dinner-plate sized blooms it is now sporting fiery red pods!

It seems that all the plants are getting dressed up for Fall! Near the Magnolia Tree I spotted a Trumpet Vine happily covering an old tree stump. Its orange and yellow blossoms fairly glowed in the late afternoon sun. Contrary to the belief of some this is not Poison Ivy nor is it Poison Oak. True (as with any plant), there are those that are allergic to it but this vine is really not the villain that is made out to be. Just using common sense ( gloves) will protect you from any rash that might occur. I have never had a problem personally and I wrestle with the plant constantly trying to keep it in check. It is quite the vigorous grower and will cover anything if given the opportunity. I happen to like the vine not only because of the colorful blooms but because the hummingbirds love it and in the winter, the song birds love to eat the seeds from the long pods.