Canna
Cannas not only feature pretty blossoms, but also beautiful
leaves (often likened to that of the banana plant) that come in a variety
of stunning colors. Popularized in Victorian times, Cannas are popular garden
plants.
Cherry
Blossom
The unofficial flower of Japan, the spectacular display
of blossoms that arrive in the spring are celebrated by festivals both in
Japan and the U.S. The most popular colors are white and pink. They are
beautiful while on the trees and remain a stunning sight even after carpeting
the ground.
Colorado
Columbine
Growing high in the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado Columbine
is a welcome reward for the enterprising climbers of Colorado's 14,000-foot
high mountains. Picking one in the wild carries a fine ($5-$50 depending
on the Ranger who catches you)!
Hydrangea
Magical snowball puffs in fall: gorgeous. The clusters
of star-shaped blossoms, often found in delicate pastel hues, embody innocence.
They are popular in wedding bouquets and as garden flowers.
Lily
of the Valley
A delicate and fragrant sign of spring, the Lily of the
Valley has inspired a number of legends. One such Christian legend explains
that the tears that Mary shed at the cross turned to Lilies of the Valley,
prompting the flower to sometimes be referred to as "Our Lady's Tears."
Another legend tells of Lilies of the Valley springing from the blood of
St. George during his battle with the dragon.
Calla
Lily
While visually stunning and elegant, this beautiful flower
is actually a member the poisonous species, Zantedeschia. All parts of the
plant are highly toxic, with the capability to kill livestock and
children if ingested.
Black
Eyed Susan
The black eyed susan, a cheerful wildflower, is a perennial
that serves as a beautiful back drop in any garden. The contrast of the
bright gold yellow petals and dark middle makes it any easy one to spot
and recognize. This official drink of the Preakness stakes horse
race is named after this flower, consisting of 2 parts Bourbon whiskey,
1 part citrus vodka, 3 parts sweet & sour mix, one part orange juice
and garnished with orange and a cocktail cherry.
Bleeding
Heart
These whimsical, almost fairy-like blossoms are a traditional
favorite in shady gardens. The flowers are either red, pink or white and
appear in April-June.
Blue
Bells
In spring, many European woods are covered by dense carpets of this flower;
these are commonly referred to as "bluebell woods". It is thought
that they were named by the romantic poets of the 19th century, who felt
they symbolized solitude and regret.
Lantana
These delicate flowers, with their pink and yellow petals,
are butterfly magnets. The bush can grow to be quite large and the color
of the petals change as the plant ages. Beware - Lantana is considered a
weed by many that is quite difficult to get rid of.
Rose
Roses are one of the most romantic and wonderfully scented
of flowers. The giving of roses is steeped in tradition and cultural meaning,
from the yellow rose of friendship to the deep red rose of true love.
Oriental
Poppy
This perennial poppy has a delicate and striking color.
After flowering in the spring, their foliage dies back entirely, only to
grow new leaves once again with the autumn rains. The Oriental Poppy is
the flower of The Wizard of Oz.
Mussaenda
erythrophylla (Ashanti Blood, Red Flag Bush, Tropical Dogwood)
These plants are native to the Old World tropics, from
West Africa through the Indian sub-continent, Southeast Asia and into southern
China. The beautiful red and yellow petals are a real showstopper. A favorite
of not only of gardeners, but also butterflies, bees and hummingbirds.
Begonia
The first Begonia was introduced into England in 1777.
Now one of the most popular flowers grown in the United States, Begonias
are prized for their flowers as well as their leaves. This versatile
plant can be grown either inside or out.
Ixora
Ixora flowers, also commonly called West Indian Jasmine,
are often used in Hindu worship, as well as in Indian folk medicine. This
plant has traditionally been associated with enhanced sexuality and the
re-kindling of passion. Who wouldn't want that as a gift!
Dendrobium
Dendrobium is a large genus of tropical orchids that
include over a thousand species. The sprays of flowers are so delicate and
yet so perfectly formed, they appear magical.
