Independence Day

Rose Campion (Lychnis coronaria 'Gardener's World')

False Spirea (Astilbe x arendsii 'Diamond')

Cranesbill (Geranium himalayense 'Johnson's Blue')

This cool and cloudy Fourth provides an opportunity to feature three flowers in the garden that might be overlooked at any other time.  It is astonishing that a recent poll indicates that 26% of Americans cannot name the country from which we gained our independence.  Some of the guesses were China, Spain and Mexico.  I sometimes wonder how the British view this day, or if they even think about it at all.  Once we got past that little skirmish in 1814 when they burned down the White House, we became steadfast allies.  We even share the red, white and blue colors which mark the day.  Here is a salute to both America and to our good friends in the UK and the values that we share.