Iris are something I look forward to returning in my garden. Observing the spear-like foliage emerge from a non-descript rhizome, gives me hope. At some point a stem emerges, evolving into a beautiful bloom. The Iris, carefully planted in my garden are quite sacred, at least to me.
Found at our family homestead in South Carolina, this particular Iris was not in bloom. I remember noticing a stand of spear like foliage, right at the edge of the woods line. With Great Aunt Lucy deceased, there were not many relatives alive nearby. In my mind, this plant needed to come home with me.
I knew I wanted some type of plant material as a memory. A plant to remind me of this humble house at the side of the road and a plant that thrived with minimal maintenance. There were two blue hydrangeas that flanked the front porch. At the time, I did not know how to prune them to a size that would allow me to fly at least one of them back to Maryland. I looked around to see what else was manageable to dig and transport. This clump of spear like foliage whispered, “please take me with you…”
Not sure if one clump would be enough, I gathered a large clump which had three clusters of foliage. Gently, I wrapped it in damp newspaper, placed it in a plastic bag, and tucked it in my suitcase. One thing I didn’t want to do was leave it behind or lose it. For safe keeping, I wrapped the bag in soiled clothing, which served as a cushion.
As I flew home, I wondered if it would live. More importantly, I wondered what color it would bloom. My parents had purple Iris in the garden. It didn’t take much urging for my Mom to share a story or two about the significance of the purple Iris. A purple Iris was in her corsage for prom. My Dad gently placed it on her wrist. The color purple reminded this loving couple of their romance which started at Cardoza High School. Purple and white are the colors for Cardoza High School.
Placing this plant in the proper space was important. I did not want this bloom to go unnoticed in my garden. Making certain the basic needs for this Iris to thrive and multiply was key. The soil could not be too rich or too damp, This plant would need 6 – 8 hours of sun in a well draining spot. It was also important to provide ample air circulation for this rhizome.
I placed it at the front of my garden. Each time spring, I wanted to acknowledge my South Carolinian roots. It is because of them, I am here and thriving. I did not know what color this plant would bloom. This was a part of the intrigue in uprooting and transplanting this plant found on family soil.
Much to my surprise, the Iris bloomed the following spring. It was white with a yellow center. I love researching plants and how to grow them. Did this rhizome have a name, I wondered? There were references to a white Iris found planted in gardens and cemeteries throughout the South. Many called this Iris a Cemetery Iris. This plant symbolized faith, hope, sympathy, or passionate feelings. There are some who believe the white Iris is signifies a fresh start.
If you believe in Greek mythology, Iris was a Goddess who bridged the gap between Gods and humans. Many believe, due to the diversity of colors when in bloom, this perennial ties heaven and earth together.
It makes sense that an alternative name for this plant is the Cemetery Iris. I was recently in Atlanta and visited the Historic Oakland Cemetery with my friend, Abra Lee. As we walked through the many headstones of common people and even a few celebrities, I noticed this Iris was a common fixture, especially in the African American section. I wondered if the sentiment of embarking in a new journey in heaven was part of the reason for inclusion amidst gravesites?
Some sayings we might never find out if they are fact or fiction. One thing I know for sure, this Iris will always be a part of my garden family. I will pass it down to the next generation …even if it is not purple.
Do you have plants that have been handed down or that have a familial story?
I will lovingly select and prepare a rhizome for my nephew James. As a new homeowner, he is embarking upon his first garden journey. He will need a purple Iris to share the story of his grandparents love affair. I believe James will also need a white Iris to acknowledge his aunt’s romance with her garden. What a terrific way to symbolize a new journey in his life, as a husband and soon to be father.
Teri, Cottage in the Court
by 
Leave a Reply