lots of pink...

astilbe x 'pink' (spiraea)

I had replanted these two astibles (spiraea) under the magnolia tree two years ago. They had been right in the sun and were being choked out by some property demanding hostas and other plants.

They didn't do well at first - this is the first time I've seen them bloom - and it's quite BIG! I'm very happy and hope they will continue to flourish under this big, shady tree.

There is a white one right next to the pink one that has buds, but hasn't bloomed yet.

As you can see, their neighbors are pachysandras.

carefree beauty (bucbi)

If you click on the photo above, you will see the scourge of the garden - a Japanese Beetle!!! Now all my roses and other flowers are going to start to look VERY shabby. These beetles are relentless and will devour the whole garden. They just started showing up this weekend.
Makes me sad :'(
A couple of pictures before they start looking ragged.