Chanticleer is a magical place.
I shared a few of my thoughts about it and photos last September, after the
Philadelphia Garden Fling. But when I couldn't attend this year's recent
Puget Sound Fling, it had me thinking about
Chanticleer again.
My words and photos can't do it justice, but it seems like a good time to share a bit. I don't have tags for all the varieties of plants in my photos, but I did my best to ID most of them. Mainly, while at Chanticleer, I wanted to simply take it all in at this special place instead of focusing on the details too much. I definitely want to go back again...
The plantings were regal throughout the grounds, including these groupings of Birds-of-Paradise (
Strelitzia nicolai), Elephant Ears (
Colocasia esculenta), and Spider Plants (
Chlorophytum comosum).
The pathways throughout the grounds were well-maintained and great for visitors of all abilities; subdued, but also beautiful.
The meadow edges were naturalistic, but at the same time artfully arranged.
This grouping of hedges and border plantings was organized, yet comfortable.
The
Ruin Garden was fascinating--combining the beauty of historical structures with lush, beautiful, draping plants.
Here and there were surprise combinations, like this potted grouping of succulents.
The naturalistic, yet creatively placed, elements throughout the grounds really appealed to me--like this pollinator house paired with beautiful rocks, mosses, plants, and structures.
The wildlife seemed at peace at Chanticleer, too, like this juvenile great blue heron.
While I don't have all the variety names, here are some individual blooming plants that captured my eye:
 |
| Nymphaea mexicana with koi |
The koi fish enjoyed the Waterlilies as much as we did.
 |
| Nymphaea nouchali |
 |
| Nymphaea mexicana |
Our time at Chanticleer was enchanting and way too short. I must go back.
