An Iris called George

Iris ‘George’: deep purple is traditionally associated with royalty. © Karen Andrews

Growing a plant on a bedroom window sill is a great way to observe its development. I purchased a small pot of dwarf Iris bulbs for a modest pocket money sum before Christmas. I recorded the bulbs’ development with photos on an almost daily basis. My potted Iris goes by the name of George.

Iris was the goddess of the rainbow and messenger of the gods in Greek mythology. The Iris has also taken on a number of meanings including faith, hope, wisdom, courage and admiration. Iris ‘George’ is therefore a great way to send out colourful greetings and good wishes for New Year’s Eve.

First day on the window sill for Iris ‘George’ on 9 December 2019. © Karen Andrews

Once the bud unsheathed, flowering seemed to follow very quickly.

Day 19: open Iris ‘George’ in pot on 27 December 2019 © Karen Andrews
Iris ‘George’ with its striking markings open in time for 2020 New Year celebrations
© Karen Andrews

Wishing you a colourful, plant-filled Happy New Year in 2020!

© Karen Andrews

References and Further Reading

  • Linnegar, Sidney & Hewitt, Jennifer (2003): Irises. RHS Wisley Handbooks. Cassell Illustrated. Octopus Books. London.
  • ProFlowers (2019): History and Meaning of Irises. ProFlowers Blog.

Copyright Note

Karen does not seek or receive any commercial interest or advantage from this blog. She is not promoting any business venture. She simply loves to share fascinating facts about plants. These pages illustrate her love of plants, botany, biodiversity, gardens and creative expression. There is always so much to learn about plant diversity. This blog is designed as a showcase for photography, commentary on plants and wildlife, gardens and other places visited, horticulture and related topics. Viewpoints are her own, not those of her employer.

© Karen Andrews 2018 onwards. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Karen Andrews and BotanyKaren.net with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. 

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