Two-image collage made using the GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP) on GNU/Linux. No post-processing other than resizing the collage from the original 6240 x 4162 to 3000 x 2000.

The Queen's Flower or Pride of India (Lagerstroemia speciosa) is a beautiful deciduous tree with prolific purple flowers, used commonly as an ornamental plant. Its yearly flowering can be particularly impressive, peaking in the warm months of the northern hemisphere around June or July. It is native to India and has been chosen as the state flower in Maharashtra, but its habitat also includes South East Asia, China and the Philippines. Because of its beauty, its use has now extended to most tropical areas in the world including the Caribbean. The specimen that is portrayed here is now about 50 years old and has survived being hit by two major hurricanes, but it remains as strong as ever and is now putting quite a show like it does every summer.