Hibiscus syriacus

[Hybiscus seriacus]

The name of this widely cultivated ornamental shrub implies that it has originated from Syria but it’s actually native to East Asia. South Koreans call it “immortal flower” and even consider it their national flower. No matter whether it’s from Syria or East Asia, it beautifies our garden every year and provides opportunities for photography.

Holargos: 2006, photo © Tony Taglides

Snail

BBB0978 [snail]

“Still too dry outside. I’d better wait for the rain to come.”

Mt. Falakro: 12/07/2009, photo © Tony Taglides

Sternbergia lutea

302_8941 [Sternbergia lutea]

Mt. Hymittos: 27/09/2010, photo © Tony Taglides

Cervus elaphus





 

BBB2052 [Cervus elaphus]

In spite of the forest fires on Mt. Parnitha a few years ago there are still more than 500 deer living on the mountain. They seem to have developed a friendly attitude toward human beings, especially if you have a tomato or an apple to offer them. If the apple looks big enough, they are willing to pose for you to take their portrait!



BBB2065 [Cervus elaphus]

Papa deer, with his characteristic deciduous antlers whose shape and length indicate his age. Whatever his age though, he’d rather lose the apple than come too close. After all, how can a deer with such beautiful ornaments on his head succumb to a temptation?

BBB2059 [Cervus elaphus]

Females are smaller than males and contrary to lonely males they graze in small herds. Young deer naturally follow their mothers and bear white spots that gradually disappear as the animal gets older.

Mt. Parnitha: 25/09/2009, photos © Tony Taglides

Paddling on gold

DSCN0909 [Paddling on gold]

Halkidiki, one of my favorite vacation spots, with its beautiful beaches and romantic sunsets, has often been my photographic paradise.


[Uploaded on request by and dedicated to my friend R. who seems to like the picture very much!]

Halkidiki: 08/07/2006, photo © Tony Taglides

The Observatory of Athens

BBB8336 [The observatory of Athens]

Athens: 27/08/2010, photo © Tony Taglides

Osyris alba

BBB8620 Osyris alba

This small broomlike shrub - far from being attractive in its post flowering season - was used by the ancient Greeks in soap-making.

Mt. Hymittos: 07/09/2010, photo © Tony Taglides

DSCN_3855 [Osyris alba]

A close look at the shrub’s fruit which varies from 5 to 7 mm in length.

Mt. Hymittos: 08/10/2008, photo © Tony Taglides

Datura innoxia

BBB8514 [Datura innoxia]

Huge (11-20cm long), white, beautiful flowers that are deceptively innocent-looking. All parts of the plant contain high levels of poison, albeit considerably less than its “deadly cousin” Datura stramonium.


Holargos: 05/09/2010, photo © Tony Taglides