Little Gem Magnolia

Magnolia trees are the symbol of Southern grace and charm.
Our Little Gem Magnolia is in full bloom right now. It has suffered in the last two cold winters so is not as full and dense as it usually is this time of year.

The honeybees are wild for the nectar of its flowers.

The flower stamens fall off and collect in the bottom-most petals. I watched the bees roll around in these pollen-filled tubes like they were at an orgy. Then they drunkenly flew off.

The area around this tree buzzes with the beat of bees' wings. We have scads of bees here at the nursery - honeybees and bumblebees and some we can't identify. We are happy to provide them a lavish buffet.
We have learned if you stay calm while working around them, and don't wear scented products they are attracted to, they won't bother you.