Charleston, S.C, the Green City

Charleston, South Carolina is one of the most beautiful, decadently southern cities in the U.S. It's a fact.

I have been to Charleston a few times before, with my latest road trip occurring this past February. I shouldn't have been surprised to see the azaleas already in full bloom (but I was). That's my kind of sub-tropical environment. Charlestonians love their trees and flowers, the true indication of a gracious society. Whether its the stately palmetto or oak draped in Spanish moss in the yard, the window box spilling over with wave petunia, begonias, voluptuous ferns on the front porch, or vines twisting around a wrought iron fence, plant life and gardening is elevated to an art form here, created by nature or "on purpose."

Planter boxes in Charleston literally overflow with an abundance of blooms.

Palm shrubs poking through the aged wrought iron fence downtown.

Looking skyward at a Sabel Palmetto.

Charleston is the kind of city that you have to experience by foot. Leave your car behind and take in the colorful, antebellum homes along Rainbow Row or amble down Meeting and King Streets (and in between) while shopping the diverse assortment of downtown boutiques. The city doesn't have a shortage of eating establishments either. . it's known for having some of the best places to get your grub on in America. While I was there, I highlights for me were Bull Street Gourmet Market, Jestine's Kitchen, and Saffron Cafe & Bakery - each didn't disappoint (and in fact I had to stop at the local grocer's to purchase a cooler to take treats back home with me).

Window shopping along Meeting and King Streets.

Love the giant neon pig signage at Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q on King Street.

The historic grounds of Drayton Hall.

Maybe one of the reasons why Charleston is so, well, verdant and lush is its proximity to the ocean, where the moist sea breeze can easily "get at" the plants and help them grow and flourish. Yes, Charleston is known for many things - its food, its architecture, its history, its people, but most inspiring to me is its love of the green life.

Palmettos against the dusk sky at The Battery.

Beach flowers at Folly Beach, about 12 miles from Charleston.

All images are the sole content and property of of Jennifer Pullinger (unless otherwise noted). Contact me if you would like to license any photos.