Japanese
maple shows off in mid-November. Beside it a pieris, then holly,
barberry, 'Incrediball' hydrangea and cotoneaster all reach to the railings for
porch-sitting viewers.
Photos are
from Terie Rawn up in Newfield, New York. She says, "After viewing such
vivid tropical colors here recently I desired to back it up a tad and relive
early winter's offering here in central New York. Long after most
perennials fade there are a few favorites that thrill me right up until heavy
snowfall. Some rich autumn colors stand strong to evoke feelings of warmth even
when falling temperatures are driving us back indoors. That magical touch of
the first snowfall is like frosting on the cake for me. My camera waits at the
back door."
Variegated brunnera wraps around the corner, snagging
falling leaves and frosted flakes.
Year after year monkshood (Aconitum carmichaelii) is
persistent about welcoming the first snow. In the background, warm golden
orange tones of Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Firetail'.
Fallen leaves are still a warm-rust while yellowing
forsythia laughs at the white rain.
The front field awaits harvesting. Autumn's last colors are
viewed from our front porch on this frigid day.
Paper-thin remains of oakleaf hydrangea gather fresh fallen
flakes.
Who could resist? Head back and all tongues ready?