Pohutukawa Leaves
I made some small watercolours of Pohutukawa leaves which I collected from Point Chevalier in Auckland. A row of very old trees stands in front of the small beach which is so popular in the Summer months. There was a carpet of fallen leaves under the trees, they always fascinate me as you can find so many different colours all at the same time.
This time of year the trees are sporting their new Spring growth ready to burst into bloom at Christmas time. Their blooms are heavy spiky red bundles which cover the trees attracting nectar feeding birds and lizards and of course the bees.
At Cape Reinga an old pohutukawa tree is believed to be the leaving place for the spirits of the departed as they begin their journey to the underworld.
It is probably the best loved of New Zealand trees.
All images copyright Frances Jill Studd 2014
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