Jewel of the landscape

I look with wonder at this tiny fruit
that I could reach from my window
and pluck from its tree.

It is perfectly shaped and beautiful.
And the mystery that’s held inside
is a crab apple’s secret!

In spring it blossoms spectacularly
in a dark pinky red,
filling driveways, roadsides and parks.

In summer the flower fades
and a tiny “berry” forms
amidst the lush green foliage.

Now, in autumn, with leaves
falling from the tree,
the fruit itself is revealed.

And the soon to be snow of winter
will accent the reddish fruit once again,
rounding out a full year of beauty.

Elisabeth Hurley
October 11, 2008