Blue Trees 05-27-08

I drove around in some of the older neighborhoods where there are Jacaranda trees of enormous heights, probably planted when the houses were first built in the 50s and 60s. Many homeowners find the trees are too messy and pull them out to be replaced by something that doesn't shed flowers, leaves and pods.

This is my favorite Jacaranda because it has never been pruned, showing off the graceful branches. Trees that have not been pruned are subject to more broken branches during heavy winds.

This one has been pruned so it has the upward branches and the flowers are more dense because they are closer together.

This is a good image of the color, even if it is out of focus.

The tubular flowers curve up to make it easier for the hummers and bees to dine. Standing under a tree in full bloom one can hear the buzzing and humming going on above.

Here are two seed pods - as they dry they open up and the seeds fly out. Years ago my Girl Scout troop decorated these to make Xmas ornaments.