Impressions: Thanksgiving flowers

An alluring new Agapanthus claimed my attention at one of the UK flower shows earlier this year, even though it was almost buried in a sea of other cultivars. The subtle lilac and pink streaks along the backs of the petals and on the petal tips created a luminous, ethereal effect against the pure white.

My picture may not do it justice, but it seemed one of those head-turners that have the potential to set the plant world aflame.

Of course, being an Agapanthus it’s not likely to get the attention that is almost guaranteed for a new rose cultivar produced by any of the big names in horticulture. A search for it online drew a blank.

Plant breeders sometimes stray in the direction of novelty rather than beauty and garden performance and many new plant introductions swiftly fall by the wayside. I hope this new Agapanthus has all the virtues it needs to be successful and that we start to see it in gardens very soon.

The rose has something of a monopoly on romance too, so I thought I’d do my bit for the relatively humble, but stately and elegant Agapanthus by mentioning that the name means ‘love flower’ in Greek. It’s perhaps a little strange to classify love according to its quality, but agape was the term the Greeks used for the highest form of love (it could also mean a meal or a feast).

I’m writing from the US so I thought these flowers would be a good way to wish everyone Happy Thanksgiving and send a little flower love your way.

The sky is blue, I’m looking out over a garden bathed in autumn sunlight and I’m feeling thankful for all my blessings. I hope you’re feeling blessed too!

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