Rattlebox
Sesbania punicea
(ses-BAN-ee-uh) (pun-IK-ee-uh)
Synonyms: Scarlet Wisteria, False Poinciana, Purple Sesbane
Every trip to Southern Florida reveals a couple of plants that I was not familiar with. This year’s trip was no different. Sesbania punicea was a plant that was stunningly beautiful and in full bloom. A little research found that this plant is not perfect (few are) as it has an invasive habit and is poisonous. The color was remarkable on this native of Puerto Rico and the bees seemed to be very attracted to it.
It turns into a small shrubby tree that is 12 to 15 feet tall. Growing especially well (and seeding) in wet, boggy areas.
For more flower pictures from around the world check out:
Today’s Flowers .
Since it is Sunday that means a bonus flower. We saw literally thousands of Bougainvillea blooming. The Keys were full of them. The dark red and orangey coral ones were the most prolific bloomers at the time but there were also some nice gold ones and purple out too. This was the only one I saw of this color.
Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea 'Imperial Delight'
(boo-gan-VIL-lee-uh)
11 comments:
Oh those invasives, such a shame. It is a pretty one.
I love that Bougainvillea... might have to look for that one as a summer annual. nice.
So pretty!
Blooms of Syclamen, have a blessed Sunday!
the rattlebox is beautiful! bougainvilleas are also in bloom here.
http://savorthebite.blogspot.com/2011/02/todays-flowers-29-pink-lantana.html
Very lovely!
Happy new week.
Regina
The rattlebox is new to me. What a shame that it's not only invasive but poisonous as well. But the blooms are so pretty!
I haven't seen bougainvillea in those shades. Unusually beautiful!
I've also never heard of (or seen) rattlebox (tho I love that name...). Very cool picture!
Interesting information about the Sesbania, which I had never before seen. I learned today that Lantana (which was my Today's Flowers post) are also poisonous, and the bane of Florida horse breeders. I wonder why so many beautiful plants are so toxic. In-bred defenses?
Thank you for your great flower pictures and information.
Both are tropical plants in our area.
Bougainvillea can be used as a house plant during the winter.
I love the different colours and enjoy the plants during our winter break in the Carribean.
As always, a great stroll through your blog, Chris. I love this lavender and white bougainvillea. When my mom lived in Florida I sure enjoyed my frequent exposure to the tropical flowers in all their glory.
From here in Southern Connecticut, I have to say I like these. Beautiful.
A fascinating paper.
I love reading your writing
I got a lot of input
thanks and encouragement to keep writing.
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