Old Can Be Beautiful

Giant White Trilliums are true to their name producing pure white flowers.  As they age other colors appear.  This pink may well be more attractive but the color signals that the end is near.  Recognized as a plant that features three petals, three leaves, three of those smaller green not leaves right behind the flower and a hidden rhizome existing in three sections, the dark veins not usually seen divide each leaf into thirds.

The ageing flowers vary widely in their presentation of mature blossoms.  We will keep an eye on this one to see if the change in color is incomplete.  The rusty wire cage is less visible from a distance but these native treasures need protection from our large herd of deer.  Sometimes the cage is removed for photos but this one protects a plant with one stem inside and the other outside.  This cage will remain unmoved until the plants die down.

Native Ramps display a growth habit similar to these Alliums in that both have their leaves die down before flowers are displayed.  Old dead leaves could be hidden behind plants that remain green at this time of year.  Finding something tall enough to hide the leaves while not blocking the view of the flowers is difficult.  Chrysanthemums are green at this time of year but not tall enough to hide the ugliness.

 

In this instance age applies to the source of this Bearded Iris but just how long Jane had this plant is unknown.  She has joined the great majority but her many gifts of plants to us keeps her memory alive in our minds.  Her knowledge was extensive while her manner was gentle.  She helped us greatly for the many years that we were lucky enough to have known her.  We find it fitting that the color of this blossom suggests royalty.