First signs of Springtime

Well, despite what happen in several part of the earth, in my microclimate we experience quite higher temperature than in normal January periods. Last week the temperatures didn't fall in the night above 0°C and several trees and bushes showed first signs of starting in a new growing season. Even my European pound turtles (Emys orbicularis) have enough from hibernation and appreciate basking. Usually first the young ones that are more sensitive to temperature changes.

Juvenile Emys orbicularis, 2 years old.

Adult Emys orbicularis, male. These turtle are still a little active during the wintertime but remain under water and they are able to gain the few amounts of oxygen needed through the mucosa of the mouth and the cloacae.

Laelia anceps

Some Winterblooming from the South

Rosmarinus x mendizabali an hybrid between R. tomentosus and R. officinalis


A beautiful specimen of a Serruria hybrid


Gazania krebsiana (outside!)


A still non-identified beauty. Probably from Gran Canaria.

Cattleya luteola

The egg yellow of this small species is a sure eye-catching despite the blooms are not so large as other cattleyas. A Full of energy for the new year!

Frosty days and Greetings!

Well, in the last days we had snow and a lot of fun, but also a very could night, the 18th December with -6°C for a couple of hours. I'll find some deaths in my garden this Spring, for sure!

Cymbidium: species or hybrid?

Encyclia vitellina

Encyclias flowers are quite different in the colors but also in the blooming time, someone also smell (at least to me) a little bit. The pictured below is Encyclia cordigera blooming in June.