Magnificent Magnolia and other spring flower delights

I always look forward to March, as I feel that the cold is finally on its way out and the hint of something warmer is in the air. As if to prove it, the magnificence that is Magnolia bursts forth all over town and the humble little Celandine grabs its moment in the spotlight before everyone else crowds it out.

Castlebar Hill in Ealing.

I am currently working on two new books and covered Kensington last year and Ealing this. I am particularly fond of the shape and colour of magnolia, especially the curves, even when they fall.

I even found a house in Ealing where the residents had a car to match - love it!

It also graced the cover of one of my local calendars.

Celandines hug the floor and are small and easily missed but are a great source of nectar for our insects - beautiful too.

North Ealing

Kew Gardens

Magnolia is closely followed by beautiful blossom, which is such a joy to witness along our streets and in our open spaces. This year, everything is a little earlier on account of the milder weather we have had. Josie would also lay down in it and say, picture this!

Wandsworth Park, Putney.

Brunswick Gardens, Kensington.

Kensington Gardens