Springtime Azalea

Western North Carolina is home to many native azaleas; this one is called the Florida Azalea. This cultivar dates back to 1865 and is known for its very long stamens.

This image was photographed today, April 20, at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, NC where they have a collection of native azaleas. I decided to focus on the stamens and only show a small portion of the actual flower. When the flower head is in full bloom it makes quite a statement, but most of it was still in tight bud.

My camera is a Nikon D70, lens is 18-200, hand held.

All comments are appreciated.