September 26

Some of the burning bushes are starting to show spectacular color, with small leaves that have gone to a deep crimson. In a breeze, these leaves flutter about, giving the bush an appearance of fire, when seen from a distance (and with a little imagination).

I would plant more of them, were my conscience not overruling, as burning bush is listed as invasive. This does seem to be the case, for there are more of them in town now than I recall from years ago. A proper census is difficult most times of the year, for apart from their bladed stems, the bush is rather unremarkable seen from afar. Come late September, they begin to stick out conspicuously in fiery regalia, and it’s easy to appreciate their ornamental popularity.

They also take hold readily. A small shoot can simply be recklessly placed in any hole, in shade or sun, and it will likely thrive. Given only a few years and a little pruning, even the most singular transplant can be transformed into an ornamental bush.

There are curiosities in the coloring. On the north side of our barn, I planted two specimens roughly eight years ago. They are both thriving bushes of approximately 5 feet high, full and shapely. As far as I can tell, they are the same species, and they receive the same light, water and such. One, without exception, turns fiery red in early September, while its twin remains aloof in its deep greet coat. It always follows in early to mid October, once the first real hard frosts have set in. I can’t explain it, which is fine that way by me.