Evening Smoke

With the setting sun the smoke bush takes on a glowing quality that is amazing to see. Unfortunately my camera frequently does not see things the way I do. The reflection of the setting sun off the pink plumes makes them glow. I know I should reshape this bush. However, I spend happy time watching the birds, and they love to sit on that very top branch and revel in their superiority. It's the highest perch in the garden. If I cut it off their game would not be so fascinating to watch.






A closer view of the plumes shows how the puffs of "smoke" really look. It's interesting that the camera picks up streaks of color from the sunlight against the pines, but the rosy glow I was hoping to capture just isn't there. I have a little of Monet's eye, but none of his talent. Look for a smoke bush just before sunset. It's an awesome effect.

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes

We had valley fog this morning and the dew on the smoke bush was dazzleing. Unfortunately like Monet trying to catch the transitory light, I just couldn't seem to capture the moment with the camera.
This picture is taken more in the middle of the day. The wispy plumes are pink. I wish I had a picture of the bush in the evening when the reds and yellows in the garden get so vibrant. It is even more gorgeous then. I've tried, but the pictures just don't capture the color of the light.

This particular smoke bush was a gift from Phyllis. She offered it, and I couldn't say no. I knew someone who had a gorgeous specimen, and I always wanted one. At that time we were short on space so the bush got planted where it is now. It's not a in a perfect spot, and it needs propping, but when I look out the window in the morning and see the hummingbird perched on that one dead branch, and those beautiful plumes, I couldn't love it more!

If you ever get a chance to get a smoke bush grab it! It puts on a spectacular show. Why I would even go to a nursery and buy one!