White by the gate

On the subject of white gardens, here's a great addition for February-March bloom if you live where camellias grow outside.  This is Camellia japonica 'White By the Gate'.  It's an introduction from Louisiana (Hyman's Nursery, 1955).  I first saw this exquisite, formal double flower in Monroe, Louisiana, where my brother lives.   Quite appropriately, the shrub was growing by a gate in a wonderful garden.  I want to try to visit this spring to take advantage of the delicious crawfish.  Incidentally, my brother and his wife live on a bayou, and it is absolutely magical.

This particular photograph was taken (where else?) at Margaret Moseley's.  She has this camellia in front of her house, and it is always loaded with blooms.

On a not so good note, Margaret has taken a turn for the worse, and doctor's orders are that she can't be up and about for three months.  She is not a happy camper, to say the least.  A few days ago, she called  to say that she was looking out the window and she'd never seen a prettier sight than one of her favorite camellias,' C. M. Wilson'.  I hope to get out there next week to check out this light pink, gorgeous flower.  I think I'll take my camera and my computer so I can take some shots to show Margaret what's in bloom and remind her of the beauty she's created and shared with so many people.