A Paradox

The mimosa tree is perhaps one of the most noxious of non-native, invasive trees in Northern Virginia, yet it's also just gorgeous when it's in bloom.  The flowers are delicate puffs of pink and the leaves look like miniature ferns, but the trees just take over in disturbed areas and knock out our lovely native plants.

Even still, this environmentalist can't help but enjoy the tree. Just wish I could see it in its native habitat and not here.

(photo at left: mimosa flowers on pavement)