White magnolia flowers

The flowers on this magnolia tree were just beginning to open. The contrast in colour between the white petals, the brown sheath and the green leaves caught my eye.

The tree, in Wellington's botanical gardens, is tall with many sweeping branches and luxuriant green leaves.

I'm on something of a magnolia obsession at the moment - e.g., yesterday's shot, and another one taken today. I can't help it - magnolias have such beautiful blooms.