A Maritime Must-have!

For years I would see this shrub flowering in the woods of our favourite golf course. I won't explain why I was in the woods while playing golf, but the bright pink flowers amongst the grey, leafless stems was very striking.

I finally found a source for Daphne, a plant I thought was native, and thus typically difficult to come by. The nursery person soon put those thoughts to rest. It's actually native to Europe and was introduced by French Settlers. I don't remember the complete story, but I think there is a tradition involving Acadians and taking cuttings of Daphne when they move. The super warm spring of 2012 meant I missed it blooming while in Cuba (no I'm not looking for sympathy). It was nice to see the blooms this year.