The other day when I was experimenting with my new camera while out in the rain I discovered a perfect looking Maltese Cross bloom. I took several photographs of it, getting closer and closer as I did.
The cluster of flowers is actually only an inch or so in diameter so you can imagine just how close I was zooming in to get this close up.
Don’t the petals actually have a bit of a plasticized look to them?
The Maltese cross is a great plant to grow. It’s fairly hardy. I think it’s a zone 3 or 4 plant. The plant grows tall stalks that develop flower buds on their tips which develop into clusters of flowers as shown above. There’s often 20+ stalks at a time.
My Maltese Cross plants bloom at least twice a year. Usually in late June to early July and then I cut down the stalks when the flowers are finished. The plant then blooms once more in late August or early September. The flowers tend to last for about two weeks at a time.
Gardeners, Plant and Nature lovers can join in every Sunday, visit As the Garden Grows for more information.
A great plant to grow…we can grow it here in the UK too. Happy GTS
They are lovely. I love the color.
Great picture; very close-up.
Tricia – that is gorgeous. I love the way the plant looks plastic and you can even see the dimension. That is truly beautiful.
I have been living in Malta for a couple of years and I hadn’t ever heard of this plant. The petals really do look like a Maltese Cross.
Oh, that is soo wonderful! What a shot! I think I’ve seen it a long time ago, but I’m not sure.
Come on over and see my flower and other nature pictures.
They rock(s)*giggles*
Great picture. We love the color of the Maltese Cross.
Have a great Sunday.
Another plant I’ve never seen before. It does have a plastic look at first glance, but I’ve noticed that when I take close ups, many photos come out that way. It may be because of the waxy coating on many flowers. Just lovely.
What a beautiful flower! I can tell you’re loving your new camera 🙂 I haven’t read enough of your blogs to know, have you taken many photography classes? I have a Rebel Canon XT that I am in love with and will be taking my first class this next semester. I’m thrilled! Anyway, I love your photography. and I’m rambling 😉 Have a good day!
Beautiful photo, I find red a difficult color to capture, you did a great job.
You can actually grow flowers like this in Toronto? J/k, but we’ve barely had summer here in Vermont so it does kind of surprise me when people further north can grow flowers that are somewhat tropical looking.
You are really taking some great pictures! Out of the ones you have taken lately, I like this one the best.
Beautiful flower. I do not believe I have ever seen one of those. I cannot seem to grow anything but succulents!
Stopping by for C&C Monday.
Absolutely beautiful. It feels like wanting to touch and smell.
Thank you for sharing this.