Trifecta
48 x 36 acrylic on wood panel
A saucer magnolia with resurrection fern and lichen based on beautiful saucer magnolia trees I saw at the botanical garden in Coimbra Portugal. I have a thing for magnolias, and there were incredibly beautiful old magnolias in the ancient botanical garden there in the medieval Roman city. I took photos of the trees for about an hour and believe more work will come from this experience.
Magnolias are an ecosystem cornerstone, supporting many insects, birds and small mammals. Pollinators love their nectar. Birds and squirrels love their seeds and many species shelter in their branches. Resurrection fern often grows in the branches of old magnolia trees, creating a micro climate and habitat for species such as insects, birds, and frogs. Lichen, which also grows on the branches of old magnolias, provides food, habitat and nesting materials for many species of birds and small mammals. Magnolia trees, lichen, and resurrection ferns are a powerful ecological trifecta.
