The Smallest of Flowers

Scientific name: Nothofagus solandri var. solandri
Common name: Black Beech
Maori name: Tawai Rauriki

The Black Beech tree is an endemic species to New Zealand, found on lowland and montane forest from Central Plateau south to Fiordland. It is a large forest tree reaching a height of 25m, often in large exclusive stands with rough grey bark, frequently covered in black mould resulting from the honeydew of aphids that feed on the sap. Leaves are small, up to 40mm, dark green above and paler below. Flowers are small and can be inconspicuous, thank goodness for a macro lens. Female flowers are closer to the branch ends than male ones which may have red anthers.

A lovely calm day with blue sky. I worked quietly away in the garden until Daughter E arrived. We decided to have a wander through one of our local parks filled with native plantings. It was nice to chat in such pleasant surroundings.

I was chuffed to see the tiny Wrybill from yesterday make the spotlight page. Warm thanks to you all for your lovely words :)

My eyes have been good for two whole days which pleases me, still keeping up with the drops and only venturing out when its calm - its one day at a time for now.

Hope your having a great week - Happy Tuesday blippers :)