The Hooded Orioles Have Arrived!

 Today I saw my first Hooded Oriole for 2021!  

Hooded Oriole

Hooded Oriole

Blooming Graptopetalum rusby

I didn't think to much about this graptopetalum when I first saw it, but then I saw the blooms on the display plant!  I thought they were really cool and I had to buy one.  Now my plant is starting to bloom!  It's a great subject for my closeup lens.

Graptopetalum rusby

Graptopetalum rusby

The label from the plant nursery has this labeled Echeveria, but I have since learned this is a Graptopetalum.  I found this chart and webpage very helpful in identification.

This chart is from THE REAL DIRT BLOG, Echeveria and Sempervivum and Graptopetalum, Oh My! - The Real Dirt Blog - ANR Blogs (ucanr.edu)

Blooming Gymnocalycium neuhuberi

This Gymnocalycium neuhuberi is one of my recent purchases.  I really like the blooms and I think it's going to be one of my favorites!

Gymnocalycium neuhuberi

Eye Catching Oxalis

This oxalis caught my eye the other day with it's striking color and large leaves.  It's growing in a large pot in the shade of a very old 'Birds-nest Fern'.

Oxalis

Oxalis

Oxalis

Alstroemeria Louise

 I saw this Alstroemeria (Louise) in the nursery the other day and I couldn't resist buying it!

Alstroemeria Louise

Bees In the Pine Tree and Wisteria

 Pine trees produce large amounts of pollen, but I've learned that it is poor in protein for the bees.  The wisteria pollen is a better option, and more colorful!

New Hummingbird Feeder!

 The Hummingbirds are enjoying a new feeder that I received as a gift.  It's very popular among the hummers as they can easily sit and drink the "nectar".

Rufous Hummingbird

Rufous Hummingbird

Rufous Hummingbird

Anna's Hummingbird