I found a group of assassin bug nymphs huddled together on one of the asparagus plants.
These little guys are a beautiful sight in the garden. Some types can bite so I don't usually handle them. They do a great job eating insect pests so I get to eat more of my veggies. Welcome, I say.
These true bugs (Heteroptera) are likely wheel bug nymphs (Arilus cristatus) from the family Reduviidae. This is the only North American member of this species with all others preferring warmer climes.
Meanwhile in the garden...
Nicotiana alata and red oleander bloom together across a path. There is some Nicotiana langsdorfii in the picture too. Those have only developed their basal rosettes, no flowers yet. The oleander came through this colder-than-usual winter just fine. There was a small amount of dead to trim out, but he's doing so well that once his blooming is done I'm going to prune him back. The lemon verbena behind the flowering tobacco, scented geranium and my stevia (last two planted elsewhere) also seem unperturbed, returning yet again. I don't think they know that they are not supposed to keep coming back so reliably here in North Carolina. Sssssshhhh.
Lilies, day Lilies, and a red rose in bloom with sunflowers and a dramatic mustard in seed.
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