The Cummer Museum
The Cummer Museum of Arts and Gardens sits along the banks of the St. Johns River in Jacksonville. The galleries were built upon what was at one time the home of Ninah and Arthur Cummer. Ninah was active in many charitable organizations in the Riverside area. It was her philanthropic attitude that led her to give her vast art collection and gardens to the city upon her death. The home has been replaced by new buildings which house the artwork, but the gardens remain. The reflecting pools of the Italian Garden and the Wisteria arbor of the English Garden are enchanting–I can easily imagine women enjoying parties and tea in these settings.
The centerpiece of the garden is the Cummer Oak tree. It is thought to be around 200 years old with heavy limbs that spread out like an octopus for over 150 feet. The root system is so extensive that the art gallery nearest the tree was built on pilings. Children and adults sat under the massive tree with their paint sets enjoying the day and receiving inspiration from the gardens.
 |
| Resurrection Fern |
The limbs of the Cummer Oak provide a home for the resurrection fern. This curious fern has the ability to lose up to 75% of its water, dry up and turn brown during a drought. It comes back to life once the water returns. Sounds like a great plant for Easter.
 |
| My Favorite–Camelia |
 |
| Foxglove? |
 |
| Tulip Tree? |
Awaiting warmer weather to enjoy more gardens!
Joy