Spring is peeking out on every street corner as I drive around the island. My mother always said her favorite flower is the camellia. These glorious flowers are just coming into full bloom in all of their various colors and varieties.
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Other than azaleas nothing says Spring in the South more than Camellias do. They originated in Asia centuries ago where you can find them in intricate works of art both on canvas as well as woven and embroidered into silk clothing.
They are the iconic symbol for the famed House of Chanel, a tradition that the great Coco began herself.
Whether they are single or double blossoms these flower laden bushes grace the yards of local homes and businesses, elegant and beautiful in their full bloom.
You may remember that the Camellia played a part in my favorite book, “To Kill A Mockingbird” when Jem destroys a bush owned by Mrs. Dubose. Jem doesn’t like things he hears her say about his family yet poignantly, the very same Mrs. Dubose presents Jem with a bud from her Camillia bush as she is dying. There is nothing like Southern literature to evoke pathos and passion.
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White Camellia’s are a symbol of women’s rights in New Zealand. Maybe this is because of the intricacy of each blossom with its many layers and colors, representative of the female spirit.
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I’m trying to decide which color I want for my yard. I’ve definitely got a serious case of Spring fever and I intend to give into it wholeheartedly. Here’s to Spring and all of its beauty!
2 Responses
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Nancy Says:
I’m the Tony Baker fan who came to the studio yesterday with the guys. Now I’m becoming a fan of yours! Thanks for this beautiful blog post!
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Melissa Says:
Thank you Nancy! It was wonderful to meet you….crazy day at the studio….taking life in stride!
