Candles burning bright

During my walk this morning I heard the excited twitter of small birds. Taking a turn in the track I found a magnificent banksia in full flower – alive with honeyeaters feasting on the bountiful supply of nectar.

Banksias are one of the more spectacular plants of the Blue Mountains with big, showy flower heads standing erect from the branches, like candles on an old-fashioned Christmas tree.

Old Man Banksia flower

Several varieties of banksia are found in the Blue Mountains. Old Man Banksia (Banksia serrata) is the one flowering at the moment. The gnarled and crooked shapes of the aged trees with leathery serrated-edge leaves are readily recognised in the open forest and woodland.

For lots more information on Australia’s banksias see Answers.com


Words to Walk With:
Matthew 5:14-16 from Holy Bible - New International Version
Jesus said: "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”