Sunday, April 3, 2011

Hepatica Flowering

The Hepatica has started blooming again. It's a lot healthier looking than last year too.

Last year's flowers were a structural disappointment. See Here. They were tattered looking, pale, and far fewer in number. This year though they're shaping up to be very garden worthy. They haven't officially opened 100% yet but there are lots of them emerging from the ground and opening slightly before reaching their peak.

The inside is somewhat complex when observed up close. Several dozen anthers surround a single green stigma. Hopefully they'll get pollinated and I'll get more seeds. It's worth noting that ants transplant seeds for the plant.

Bluets on the other hand have far less complex flowers. (Also note the mite on the lower left petal.)