Mimosa Tree: An Intoxicating Beauty

Ahhh ... lovely yes?

Although this could be a scene from a relaxing vacation retreat it's another edition of weekend walks around the lake at the University of Richmond.  So yes, for the Beaver fans out there, his pics will be at the end of the post!

Growing up in the mid-west I never saw a Mimosa tree until I moved to Richmond.  Perhaps I just didn't get out much ;)  From what I've read Mimosa trees are actually considered invasive and in need of "control" in areas such as Florida and along southern waterways; hard to believe about something so intoxicating in both beauty and fragrance.      To me, Mimosa trees look like they were drawn for a fairy tale book ... so delicate, ethereal, and exotic, almost other-worldly with their fern-like feathery leaf arrangement and pom-pomesque cluster of flowers.  And they're pink, I definitely seem to be having a love affair with pink these days.

Let's look closer ...

And still closer ...

Really, doesn't that flower almost look like a little fairy fluttering about?  Just squint when you look at it and think Tinkerbell, that's what I do.

And when there's a gentle breeze carrying the sweet fragrance of the Mimosa tree, well, to me, it's even more lovely than the scent of Gardenia shrubs.  By the way, we planted two Gardenias this spring by our front porch ... such a lovely greeting for visitors ... and I'm out there daily just to drink in the scent.

Today's final university picture is the Student Commons building that actually spans the lake ... the waterway on the far side of the building is more of a water management area and not scenic, but it is innovative how the building helps rather than hinders the management of the natural resources of the area and provides a way for students to experience nature on a daily basis as they cross the lake (classrooms and dormitories are located on both sides of the lake).

OK, here's the Beaver getting his gear on in the parking lot to go walk ... he's a little eager to get going.

And no, I can't explain the hubby's clothing combo ... swear he had a wide array of clean clothes to choose from ... maybe he's the fashion forward one able to mix and match patterns with abandon and not me?

In this photo you see some of the gear we always carry with us for Beaver ... really, I've considered using a stroller to tote stuff with us at times, but I've never actually gone that far.  Anyway, see the Gulpy in hubby's left hand?

Here's what the Gulpy is ...

They come in different sizes and colors; Gulpy is the brand name and an online search lists many places where they can be purchased.  With dogs in tow they are a great item to have.

Thanks for joining us on this walk.  Have you seen a Mimosa tree in person?  What's your favorite blooming "floral" scent?  Maybe you prefer the fresh scent of produce, like a Cantaloupe or Basil (two more of my favs).

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