Seattle is not all rain (or snow) and gray skies this time of year. We have the occasional crisp, sunny winter day — and when one happens to fall on a weekend, the entire population of the city (or so it seems) makes for a nearby park.
The Washington Park Arboretum isn’t the park nearest to our house, but at this time of year, rain or shine, it is my favorite. Nestled in the middle of the arboretum’s 230 acres is the Winter Garden, a small, sheltered space filled with plants that are at their loveliest during Seattle’s darkest months. The bare chartreuse branches of dogwood pop on a field of black mondo grass. Tiny purple violas peek up through velvety, heart-shaped leaves. And the blossoms of sweetbox and witch hazel perfume the paths.
If you’re in Seattle in the next month or so, and have time for a walk, get yourself to the arboretum. When you reach the winter garden, you’ll find small, spreading witch hazel trees covered in crinkly yellow, gold and russet blossoms. Walk up close to a tree. Close your eyes. Inhale deeply. Oh, life is sweet.
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
I love that walk! And those crazy ribbon trees. I always stop to touch them. Thank you for reminding me. Tomorrow, the Arboretum.
Beautiful photos. I didn’t realize dogwood trees were striped like that.
I love that bridge. Haven’t been there in far too long. Ah, you always make me miss Seattle so.
hear hear!
I really do love that witch hazel, I need to take a walk