Here's the next flower block--hot off the hoop.
When the dogwood blooms in springtime, it is a sight to behold. The showy flowers emerge white, pink, or rosy red, but disappear in summer leaving attractive dark green foliage; followed by berries in the fall and a dazzling display of colorful leaves. It’s a relatively small tree, reaching heights of 15-20 feet, and maintains an attractive silhouette, contributing to its popularity in home landscapes and city streets. I found this one in a nearby woodland area last May.
Another flower, the ‘Virginia creeper’ was also proposed for the state flower, but it was the American Dogwood (Cornus florida), supported by various Garden Clubs, that contributed to its adoption on March 6, 1918--declaring it to be the floral emblem of the Commonwealth. Despite the title of “state flower” it is most assuredly a tree. Virginia is the only state to have the same state flower and state tree. According to the 'Language of Flowers Almanac', Dogwood represents "durability" even though it looks quite delicate.
The mature bark is also interesting. It is sometimes scaly or blocky. Long ago, it was recorded that, a tincture was created by boiling the bark to treat dogs for mange, which may be where the common name "dog wood" originated.
Though blossoms vary in hue, the legislation does not stipulate a particular color. Since white is the most common, it's the color I chose to use for my flower block. The centers are actually more a purplish green, not yellow--as I did them...but, oh well. We are learning things as we go along.
COLORS: flowers--cream #3823; inner line on petals--blush pink #758; centers--yellow #744; tips of petals--reddish brown #356; leaves & stems--green #988; letters--smoke gray #645.
Ahh Virginia (my birth state) and the Dogwood, how I love them both. I have three Dogwood trees in my yard in bloom right now. They are one of my favorite trees and flowers.
Your State Flower Quilt is coming along beautifuly. I look forward to seeing each and every one of your blocks, and can't wait to see it finished. I know it will be a quilt to treasure for many years. Keep up the good work.
Posted by: Velma | March 30, 2011 at 08:26 PM
They are very pretty the way you did them so I'll copy you and allow for artistic license. I was born in Virginia so this one is dear to my heart. Thank you for all you do! Do you still have an assistant?
Posted by: Vee | March 31, 2011 at 10:17 AM
I just love your tree and flower post, they are not only beautiful to look at but very informative, thanks!
Posted by: 31Summers | March 31, 2011 at 05:02 PM
I love white dogwoods. We have a small stand of them down at a nearby lake, and they are so very pretty in the springtime.
You're really going to town on these blocks now Vicki! They're all turning out wonderfully well.
xo
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