The sun has been playing peek-a-boo and suddenly there is light! This can be a good thing when one is trying to take pictures of finished flower blocks, as I am attempting to do here. But illumination into dark corners is also a wake-up call for that dreaded activity known as: 'Spring Cleaning'. I admit, it's always a bit of a shock when I realize how many cobwebs I've been living under...sending me into a flurry of activity.
But let's talk about flowers instead, shall we? Oh yes, let's do!
Today we have the slow growing, shade-loving Mayflower (Epigaea repens), a Massachusetts native, and our state flower quilt block number 28. It does seem rather appropriate, don't you think, that the Mayflower was chosen to represent this state, as it bears the same name as the ship that carried the Pilgrims to its shores in 1620. It's also known as the "gravel plant", trailing arbutus, and ground laurel--giving insight into its growing habit, as it spreads on the ground in sandy soil in woodland areas where oak leaves and pine needles contribute to the acidic soil conditions it thrives in.
Fragrant waxy-pink blossoms appear from March to May, fading nearly to white. The dark green oval leaves are leathery, growing from hairy rust-colored twigs. It was adopted as the official flower of the Commonwealth in 1918; and has been on the endangered list since 1925, when the over collection of its leaves for wreath making nearly led to the plants complete destruction. It is still illegal to remove or dig up this flower from its natural setting. The Language of the Flowers gives ground laurel the label of "perserverance" and for good reason it seems.
SIDE NOTE: Speaking of perserverance, the Japanese people are certainly in our prayers as they endure the most trying of times. If you want to help, funds can be donated directly through the American Red Cross. Also the Asia Disaster Relief Fund donates 100% of gifts directly to the needs--nothing is spent on administration or other expenses.
COLORS: Petals--rose #962; pink #818. Flower center--yellow #3822. Stems & veins--reddish brown #632. Leaves--dk green #3346. Lettering #645.
Next up, the Colorado Columbine. . .
This is one of my favorites so far. Fun to see all the blocks laid side by side--love all the colors together!
Posted by: Wendy | March 22, 2011 at 01:58 PM
Mayflowers are the most delicate pink and have the most intoxicating aroma. I have missed them for years at a time and then found them again...it takes such persistence like that of a child poking about in a field or woodland spot. There was a time when they'd never have been missed. It's a lovely state flower and perfectly appropriate. I like seeing how your work is progressing.
Posted by: Vee | March 22, 2011 at 02:56 PM
Oh my, I think the Mayflower may be taking the Violet's spot as my favorite. Especially the way you did it in different shades of pink.
Here in Wisconsin I am struggling with enough daylight to photograph fruity fabrics to blog for the Japan Quilt Project. I hope that my photos turn out as well as yours.
Come see what we're doing to raise money for Japan! It's the best of both worlds, quilting AND embroidery.
Posted by: Mom Wald | March 23, 2011 at 07:45 AM
Thanks Wendy! I'm enjoying this project and all the color--during these "gray" days.
Posted by: vicki haninger | March 23, 2011 at 11:03 AM
Hi Vee, thank you for sharing these notes about the Mayflower. I don't believe I've ever had the pleasure of seeing this flower. It's nice to know it has a wonderful fragrance, I'll look closer for it now.
Posted by: vicki haninger | March 23, 2011 at 11:05 AM
Thanks so much--I'm having trouble picking a favorite myself, each flower has it's own lovely quailities--stitched or otherwise.
I wish you much success for the Japan Quilt Project--what a great idea!
"Stitch On" Ladies!
Posted by: vicki haninger | March 23, 2011 at 11:12 AM