Perspective, by definition, has a multitude of meanings. One of which is a different or personal way of looking at something or things. We know that no one will always agree on what is beautiful. What is relevant in one person’s garden might not be the taste of another’s. Gardens reflect an idea or concept for the viewer to consider. To be clear, gardens are personal. When attending any flower show, you often see mixed seasons, in addition to mixed genres exhibited throughout the space. Diversity found in every exhibit allows the attendees a unique personal experience. The beauty of attending flower shows is discovering diverse perspectives on beauty.
In a discussion with Andrew Bunting, I asked what I should look for at the 2026 Philadelphia Flower Show. “Rooted: Origins of American Gardening” was the theme this year. This word has different meanings to different people. I was not sure what to expect. He assured me there were some key displays to look for, with a few surprises as well. Due to time constraints, I was unable to share a quick recording discussing this year’s theme. However, he was correct in how the show had changed, what to look for, and what displays offered a little special twist.
The Philadelphia Flower Show is a yearly can’t-miss event. As winter winds down, most gardeners begin seeking various spring-related events. These events confirm that a new season filled with pops of color and new growth is just around the corner. I have made this yearly trek with groups, girlfriends, my sister, and as a solo traveler.
The only time I missed attending was when we could not safely gather. There were a few times over the years when I visited the show twice. Okay, maybe a few times, I went three times. The Philadelphia Flower Show is my secret addiction. This Flower Show is the best way to be inspired before spring officially starts. The displays by familiar designers such as Susan Cohan and Kelly D. Norris are amazing, as they teach us to appreciate the natural landscape. However, this year was different.
My perspective on “Rooted: Origins of American Gardening” might be a little different than most. I was not sure what I would see. Would it reflect traditional American gardening taught in history books? It made sense that it would share cultural examples reflective of the diversity found in our country. I was honestly excited to see a few different perspectives on what rooted means to some garden aficionados.
As usual, the displays were fabulous and beckoned the most seasoned gardener to pause. Each design team invited the attendees to reimagine their landscape or at least depart with a new idea for the season. Many people took photos, angling for the best view, all while avoiding being part of another photographer’s photo story.
When the crowd abruptly stopped, I could barely see the reason why. Many in the crowd just stared in awe. It was easy to weave and make my way to the front. I was pleasantly surprised by the enormous work of art before me. As I laid eyes on this display, I silently wept. This was the work of Floral artist Tanesha Sample. Her community and followers know her as Tissarose. This creative floral designer has me in awe of her skills. The thoughtfulness and intentional messaging were amazing. This floral display truly resonated with me.
It was as though an entire conversation took place as I gazed at the hand in front of me. My eyes welled up with tears. Using the language of art and flowers, Tissarose made a cultural statement. This creative perspective of being rooted was beautifully displayed. In the 30+ years I attended this show, I never thought I would see this in my lifetime.
As I got closer, my heart melted, and the tears continued to fall. Tissarose created a floral message in her own unique way, using her origin story. She defined being rooted in a culture often underrepresented in the world of horticulture. I was emotionally shaken, yet my heart was filled with joy. IKECHI is a word of Igbo origin. In the Nigerian language, the translation is God’s Power is Life.
The details were amazing and caused my heart to flutter. With each flower, her hands created a short story of her message. Using cotton, this floral artist reminded the attendees of how African American hands played a role in many of the historic gardens we visit today. Tissarose shared what is in her heart through her handiwork with flowers and foliage. Few people are comfortable sharing their personal perspective in their floral journey. This one spoke volumes. I found intimate time with the display to explore it in depth, as the crowds headed off to dinner. When all was quiet, tears slowly flowed from my eyes as I admired this amazing work of floral artistry. I understood her powerful message.
There are many memories sown along the road of Tanesha’s floral journey, including the love and loss of a caring mother. Memories of Miss Connie’s tree, where the neighborhood gathered, are honored in this work of art. Faith is the fertilizer that encourages her roots to grow. The beliefs that have kept her grounded provide her confidence as she creates floral stories with her hands. It was a pleasant, relatable perspective that was long overdue.
I will share more memories from the 2026 Philadelphia Flower Show. It was quite fabulous. I want to say thank you, Tissa Rose. Being rooted in your faith and persevering can bring a story to life. Sharing your perspective on the origins of your American story was quite the creative story.
Click to find out more about Tissarose. Click to discover more about PHS
Now I am looking forward to the 2027 Philadelphia Flower Show and wondering how many times I might have to visit.
