This past weekend I attended a private dinner party at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden, in Federal Way. The dinner is a way to thank all paid members of the garden for their support throughout the year. This was my first such dinner party, and it couldn’t have been more pleasant! The weather was perfect for the evening gathering on the terrace outside the Rutherford Conservatory, with temperatures hovering near 70. Each year the dinner theme varies, and this year the theme was a Hawaiian style dinner. What a treat! For those interested, myself included, there was also a guided, mini-tour of the garden, with wine glass in hand. Talk about relaxing!

I took advantage of the time before the dinner and strolled through the conservatory to take some photos of plants that were blooming. Most of the plants are tropical in nature and consist of many Rhododendron species indigenous to Asia. These tropical Rhododendrons are referred to as Vireyas. You will also find some Orchid species and other exotic plants in the conservatory. There is always something in bloom throughout the year. Here are a few images of rhododendron species that are currently in bloom.

I came across these pretty, little gems. They are Oreocharis auricula and are a relative to the African Violet, and are native to the mountains of southern China.

Oreocharis auricula

Here is a beautiful blooming plant, of which I do not know what species they are.

And here are delicate blooms of a Ginger plant.

If you are interested in becoming a member of the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden, visit their home page listed at the beginning of this blog post for more info. Or better yet, just visit this “hidden gem” of a garden, in person.

All images are property of Peggy A Thompson.