Winter solstice 2012

Winter in our neighbourhood is mild. Some exotic trees are deciduous but the Australian natives hold their leaves. The best splash of colour today is from two clumps of red hot pokers in nearby gardens.

Poinsettia in June. (Euphorbia)

Poinsettias or euphorbias bloom freely when the nights are long. This was taken on a magnificent winter day in the Pittwater area north of Sydney. We were enjoying a magnificent bushwalk and visited this little town to find really friendly locals.

This poinsettia is growing in a sheltered position 

The same magnificent specimen from further back in Sydney in June, early winter.

Poinsettia growing in exposed area, with fewer bracts.