Reaching for the sky
Messages grow on the wind.
Earth connects with heaven
So tells my observations and the ancient wisdom of old. This flower had many uses including medicine made from its rhizomes, cordage made from its leaves and symbols created from the flower’s influence over the soul and mind. This plant’s name comes from the Greek word “iris” for rainbow, owing to the many colors of flowers found in this genus. No surprise, finding that the flower is associated with the Greek goddess, Iris, who was associated with evaporation as well as messages that could be heard between the two “worlds” of water and clouds. This particular iris, our Florida native, iris hexagona, is found during our dry period, along the fresh water edges of creeks, ponds and swamps that always retain some amount of dampness year round. Its bright green leaves herald our early spring while bird watching distracts me long enough to be surprised when I see them bloom. Its’ bloom is mesmerizing. Looking for the recognizable parts of a simple flower, I see instead flower parts that come in threes: three blue falls (sepals) with a yellow splash called a signal because it indicates the direction a pollinator takes to find the prized nectar; three purple style arms supporting three flared blue style crests; and, three blue and white standards (upright petals). This flower is said to have inspired the Fleur de Lis and is often seen as symbolic of wisdom, faith and hope. In southwest Florida when this monocot starts blooming you know that the pace of growth has quickened. So if you can avoid the hay fever from the oaks, pines and palms, enjoy the light flowery fragrance and listen to the messages of spring!
Tags: Florida, Iris, postaday 2011, spring
