Field Notes: Summer 2026

Smitten by almost-summer geometry

As Asha and I approach our lingering spot, we are encircled by Mountain Laurel shrubs whose white origami flowers are my favorite almost-summer blossom.

If you were walking with us, I’d exclaim, “Oh, look!”

And if you moved closer and leaned in, I’d ask, “Don’t the buds remind you of cupcake frosting?”

I’d point out the pentagonal geometry of the flowers – ten stamen, each curving into a cinnamon, scarlet or burgundy mark at the high and low points of the five lobes.

I might add that, come fall, the seed pods will have five sections.

But I’d be sure to tell you how the filaments attached to each pollen-bearing anther are pulled backward in an arc, creating a catapult, ready to fire pollen at visiting pollinators.

Are you smitten too?

Field Notes: Summer 2026

Smitten by almost-summer geometry

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