The thermometer reached 41F yesterday then dropped to 22 last night; we had a super frost!

I'm not really a "winter guy" but this morning was something! Of course the Dianthus is beautiful, they're used to being beautiful . I think it was a new experience for the ancient Misubishi service vehicle (even if it was just her windshield).

Poliothyrsis sinensis: more dehiscent capsules!

This is an obscure Asian large shrub/small tree in the Flacourteaceae or the Salicaceae depending on your system. It's an interesting plant with large, coarsish leaves and panicles of fragrant flowers in the summer. Easy of cultivation, it seems to be tolerant of heat, less than outstanding soil, USDA Zone 7 winters and a certain amount of drought. Of course I like the fruit.