Longer, warmer days draw herbaceous plants from winter dormancy.  New shoots are more delicate than mature leaves and often more vividly coloured as well, whether brightest lime green or more surprising shades of rust and pink.

 

plant portrait - new shoots of Macleya

 

These newly sprouted Macleya leaves will mature to a subtle, bronze-tinged green….

 

 

but for now the juicy young shoots are painted in warning colours that might deter the rabbits.