The local grown flowers for the tri-state are now at their peak. They are breathtaking, vibrant, and just a flower lover’s dream. Each week I anticipate the new cuttings; waiting to see what is available. And, somehow they always seem better than the previous weeks. Just so many varieties like zinnias, dahlias, sunflowers, gladiolus, hydrangea, and the list goes on. And then the herbs; its daily aromatherapy for all who enter the shop. Why would anyone want the inferior, imported flowers? There is positively, absolutely no comparison; for more reasons than one.
A Favorite Flower?
While Willow seems impressed with the giant, millet & sorghum (aka bunny tails-hmm an obvious maybe for a greyhound?); I think this year I am most impressed with the coxcomb. That odd, out of this world shaped flower that does not really look like a flower at all, but yet a wild, rippled, ladies fan. The soft velvety heads seem to tease you to pet them like a puppy’s ear-they are irresistible. The colors further entice another of our senses in the strongest burgundy, the hottest pink, and the coolest greens. Nature in its glory, but oddly with no two ever similar in size or form. Ranging in size from 3” to 7” they each have their own personality and dry perfectly; making them a good choice for dried flower designs-especially wreaths.
Flower Lore
The generic name is derived from the Greek ‘kelos’ meaning burned, they are commonly called woolflower & velvet flower. The English definition of coxcomb is a ‘conceited dandy who is overly impressed by his own accomplishments.’ How odd, because they do dominate the cooler for attention, bowing I think only to the giant sunflowers. They do redeem themselves by being very medicinal for multiple ailments and their leaves a food akin to spinach.
Enjoy the Season
Our local crops usually run into late October or later depending on the weather. And then, they are gone for another year. I can’t stress or encourage you enough to enjoy them while they are here. They are magnificent, last incredibly long, support our local farms & economy, and of course -feed the butterflies.
For the love of them all,
Enjoy… Lynn