Clearly Clerodendrum

All dressed for Halloween!

I thought I knew.  I didn't.  The enchanting spent-blossom seed heads of the Clerodendrum were not what I imagined. Also called Harlequin Glorybower, the stunning fall show looks like little jester hats sprinkled magician-style all over the small tree. The glistening fuschia petals appear to be succulent and thick.

A closer, careful observation reveals nothing thick except the center, the turquoise "bead." The petals are thin with their edges curled back to create this stunning illusion. As long as I thought I knew, there was no space in the Things I get to do today to learn more. Really opening my eyes, to see clearly, made room for these little jesters to un-trick me.  No Trick--All Treat.