As I was photographing some of the magnolias in the DC area, I kept seeing varieties of Star Magnolias. The blossoms on these trees are unique. They have lots of petals, many of which curve and bend in the wind. Unfortunately, all the ones I was finding were past their peak. So the blossoms were shades of brown, with petals fallen away.

Finally, on a recent trip to McCrillis Gardens in Bethesda, I found a star magnolia in full bloom. The one I photographed was a Royal Star Magnolia (Magnolia Stellata). I just love the delicate beauty of the blossoms on this one.

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins