This is (in) the backup frog pond. We had so much rain last year that one of the frog families relocated to this old milk crate, and we've kept it going as a pond even through the dries of summer. Whatever this stuff is called, it grows like a weed in water.
It just hasn't been a success, this maple. It look good about twice a year, once in Spring when the leaves are brand new, and once in autumn, when the brown edges are forgiveable.
In those moments though, it's quite something.
This actually self-seeded from the other fern tree which we planted on purpose. Now it's nearly caught up and provides perfect shade in summer. In winter, it's part of a conspiracy to keep the washing from drying.
And as you can see, it's got no plans to stop growing just yet. The washing line will be relocated this summer.
First blue sky in a fortnight. And in fact, this tree is borrowed from the neighbours. I can see it from the window in front of my desk.