“Tropical Flowers”, a copyrighted post, was written for my WordPress blog called Always Growing by Jan in Covington, Louisiana
With the heat of August in full swing, the tropicals in my garden are putting on quite a show. The hibiscus bushes are really putting out the flowers now that we have had more rain. As I have written before, I only grow the double flowered ones. The reds, peach, and yellow ones have been particularly pretty the last few days.
In our climate these will continue to bloom into the winter. In fact, I’ve had blooms in December when it has not been too cold. But, it is the summer when these hibiscus really shine.
Here’s an update on the long awaited Bird of Paradise flower. It has finally opened up completely.
I am so glad I didn’t give up on it when it took so long to eventually show a flower.
Always Growing 
perennialgardenlover said,
August 21, 2008 at 9:06 pm
The Bird of Paradise is absolutely stunning. It’s a good thing you didn’t give up on such a gorgeous bloom.
Anna said,
August 21, 2008 at 11:41 pm
Very exotic blooms. I’v not had the Bird of Paradise but do have lots of hibiscus. My Knock-Out roses sometimes bloom for me all season if the winter is mild. It just looks strange to see a blooming rose in winter.
Jan said,
August 22, 2008 at 4:47 am
I agree, Perennialgardenlover. Each time I look at that flower, I get more excited about it. Now, I can’t wait for more to show up. I guess I’m never satisfied – something too work on.
Hi, Anna. The tropical flowers help make up for the sultry temperatures. I know what you mean about having flowers bloom in winter. Living so far South, we have often have so many plants blooming in the dead of winter. I always use red pentas and impatiens in Christmas arrangements since they are usually still blooming at that time.
Brenda Kula said,
August 22, 2008 at 10:50 am
That Bird of Paradise is stunning! I didn’t get a Hibiscus the last two years. But I’m regretting that. The blooms are magnificent!
Brenda
lacey said,
August 22, 2008 at 1:15 pm
Oh, your plants are so stunning. Especially that Bird of Paradise.
Jan said,
August 22, 2008 at 3:50 pm
Thanks, Brenda. I always overwinter my hibiscus because the doubles are sometimes hard to find. I’ve had some for years.
Thanks, Lacey. I’m really pleased with the Bird of Paradise flower.
Nancy Bond said,
August 22, 2008 at 8:23 pm
Your blooms are all beautiful — that Bird of Paradise is so exotic!
Jan said,
August 22, 2008 at 8:51 pm
Thanks, Nancy. These plants do very well around here.