A splendid bougainvillea blooms gracefully, draping itself over an old concrete wall with cracks. I look forward to witnessing this sight and visit here every year. Bougainvillea is a tropical climbing plant belonging to the Nyctaginaceae family. Its bold and vibrant colors, characteristic of tropical regions, are captivating. It originates from Central and South America. In Japan, this flower is commonly seen in Okinawa, but recently it has started to be seen in other parts of Japan as well. Bougainvillea is hardy and easy to cultivate, producing flowers in various colors such as red, pink, white, purple, and yellow for an extended period. Although it is sensitive to cold, you may still spot its flowers in Japan even in November and December. Perhaps Japan has become more tropical in recent times. Bougainvillea, with its name evoking an exotic ambiance, is a sight to behold against the backdrop of Greek white houses. However, seeing it like this, entwined with a weathered concrete wall, also adds a touch of sabi  (a special kind of beauty that results from aging) and beauty.

割れ目の入った古いコンクリート塀に覆い被さる様に立派なブーゲンビリアが咲いています。この光景を見るのが楽しみで、毎年の様にここを訪れます。ブーゲンビリアはオシロイバナ科のつる性熱帯植物です。南国らしい大胆で鮮やかな色合いが魅力的な花で、中南米が原産地です。日本では、沖縄あたりでは普通に見かける花ですが、最近は日本各地でもよく見かける様になりました。丈夫で育てやすく、赤やピンク、白、紫、黄色などの花を長期間咲かせます。さすがに寒さには弱いですが、日本でも11月、12月になっても花を見かけることがあります。それだけ日本も熱帯に近くなったのでしょう。名前からして異国情緒を感じさせるブーゲンビリア、ギリシャの白い家々を背景に咲き誇るブーゲンビリアの写真を見たことがありますが、こうして見るブーゲンビリアも寂が効いていいものです。