Shimobashira (frost columns) blooming!? You may think it's too hot — but in Ninomaru woods before Palaceside Building in the East Gardens, shimobashira plants really bloom.
Not winter ice pillars lifting soil — a Lamiaceae perennial. Small white flowers line the stems.
Above-ground parts die in winter but roots live, drawing moisture up frozen stems — on sub-zero mornings water extrudes, freezes, and pushes out like ice flowers — hence the shared name.
Cold spells build curious ice crystals — seen on Mt. Takao; melt in direct sun; roots must stay unfrozen.
Enjoy white flowers in autumn; ice flowers in winter on early cold mornings.