This floral emblem comes in the form of a tree this time and became the official flower to represent the state of Missouri on March 16, 1923. And although a specific variety of hawthorn is not named in the legislation, the Missouri Dept of Conservation asserts that the 'downy hawthorn' (Crataegus mollis), is the one deserving recognition. The five-petal blossoms are cream-colored and grow in clusters, similar to an apple tree, but it belongs, in fact, to the rose family. After the blossoms fade, it produces tiny apple-like "pomes" which can be made into jam. These small fruits also provide food for birds and small mammals.
The flower buds are pale yellow, opening to a pinkish white. But white is always a tricky color to do on a white background though, so initially I chose pale pink for the petals. The centers are a rusty-brownish-pink color—the original directions call for dark orange—I took liberties and went bright yellow with bright pink stamens to add more color. When I got it done, I decided it looked too much like an apple blossom! So much for taking liberties. Then I started over, and did another one truer to the actual colors (above). What do you think? Which one do you like the best? (Click on small image to see larger.) I'm going to stick with the top choice.
DMC Colors: For the flower block (shown first), I used very pale yellow #3823 which looks more cream-colored on the white background; flower centers #922; stamen #728, and leaves #469 & #989. #645 for letters. Three strands overall; 2 strands for flower names and French Knots.
Stitches Used: Outline Stitch for continuous lines; Back Stitch for letters; Satin Stitch for fills; French Knots for dots. If you are unfamiliar with the stitches used--take a look at the stitch guide on my website here...you can print it out for reference. For the serrated edges on the leaves I find the V-Stitch (also called a Zigzag Stitch), is quick and effective. You will vary the stitch length for leaves, but it is the same principle.
Next, moving on to the block for Idaho, I got a surprise--and not a good one. As I began to research the State Flower Syringa, I found something amiss and alarming.
To borrow a line from 'Miss Clavel', "Something is not right!" And it wasn't. So, now I'm in the process of redoing that block. I'll explain it all later, once everything is sorted out. We are working out the bugs as we go along it seems. :o)
For all the information about the state flower quilt project and how to download designs--go here.
