Roselle

Got acquainted only recently with this plant with maple-like leaves and fleshy deep red flowers (Sorry for the poor photo quality). Saw it in a cart among the herbs being sold in the supermarket. It was labelled as Labog -- a not so glamorous name I should say. The label informed me that the Ilonggos mix its blossoms in with their salads . And according to recipes I've seen on the net, its leaves give a dish a touch of sourness.

Also known as Sorrel or Roselle, this plant is known  as a very good antioxidant (anti-aging!). Many tea preparations carry this ingredient. My thoughts: "must get plant, cultivate, enjoy home-made tea concoctions".

photocred: www.motherearthliving.com

Firecrackers in the Sun

What a sight for sore eyes!  I slipped out of our function room to take a look around the place and was pleased to chance upon this tree which was in full bloom. Really, it was my first encounter with such a tree and its pink/red blossoms that seem to be strung together. They remind me of many things: like leis, like chili peppers set out to dry, and like red firecrackers that are just waiting to be set off to celebrate some occasion.

Friendship Flower

The Alstroemeria or for better recall, the Peruvian Lily, is said to symbolize friendship. Its leaves twist as they sprout from the stem outward. The symbolism may have sprung from the same way the plant evolves. Interesting.  They come in many colors and nuances. Some are striped, some are not.

I remember a friend of mine who referred to her different groups of friends as her different tribes, each with their own subcultures and interests.  We belong to our own cliques, clans, factions, not necessarily out of tune with the rest of the world, just more drawn to those who have the same inclinations as we have. 

Wishes in a Vase

I admire the person who made use of these weeds. I have not seen anyone put these in a jar and display it the way someone in this cafe has.  He or she must be so free-spirited as to have some appreciation for the much dismissed, and ignored, bounty of nature. 

Just like the dandelion's florets -- they seem to be waiting to be blown away, be scattered by the wind, to land and begin life anew. They seem to sit there with an invitation to take as many as you need.

Today I need a handful.

Mango Blossoms

Who does not love sweet juicy ripe mangoes? It is always a treat to eat them. But enjoy its flowers? Yes, why not? They are a sight to behold! Chanced upon a tree that was heavy, not with its fruit yet, but with its inflorescence which seemed to light up an otherwise gloomy overcast afternoon. The tree was in such a profuse flowering state that there were flowers that reached as low as my waist -- which made it easy for me to snap away with my phone. Because they were within reach I marveled at the clusters of pastel daintiness emanating from sprigs of bright pink. So feminine and pretty!