International Space Station In A Flower

Clerodendrum bungei, commonly called the Rose Glory Bower

Wikipedia says: Clerodendrum bungei, commonly known as rose glory bower, glory flower or Mexican hydrangea (though not a true Hydrangea), is a species of flowering plant in the deadnettle family. It is native to China, and is commonly grown in gardens as an ornamental shrub. It has escaped from cultivation and is naturalized in the Americas.

I saw this plant in the gardens at Wimpole Hall here in Cambridgeshire, and I was struck by how very spaceship-like the flowers look close up. The arms reminded me of an International Space Station circling in space.

I had no idea what the plant was, so I posted a photo on Twitter and A to Z Flowers identified it. (Go take a look at their website – and this is their twitter handle @atozflowers).

Here’s a closeup – click on it to see a bigger version. Interesting, isn’t it.