Thursday, August 27, 2009

Lycoris - Naked Ladies - Surprise Lily--Lin Frye

Daily Practice
Journal

Grace. Yesterday was simply one of those days of tranquility, quiet and the space of time that allows one to recuperate a time of intense activity and frenzy. Because of all the
hours we've all worked and the pace of activity, we took a much needed respite and enjoyed a few minutes away from the phones and computers to sit at Cold Stone and enjoy an endulgence of ice cream! With 90F degree weather, creamy, cold, sweet ice cream topped by all kinds of decadent candies, it was absolutely joy and a true moment of grace.

Throughout the Arboretum, these 'surprise lilies' are popping out all over. Lycoris belongs to the amaryllis family and are native to southern Japan. They grow from 3" bulbs and while the foliage shows in late winter, the flowers wait until August to surprise us. One flower stalk (without leave at all), ususally appears for every 10 leaves produced earlier in the winter. The plant does especially well in areas with wet springs and dry, drought-ish summers. Lycoris are easy to grow, and do well in full sun to part shade and average soil types. The bulbs can be divided after blooming.

Today, we take 2 vans of guests two hours north to visit a wonderful goat farm. We'll tour the farm, learn more about Agri-tourism in our state, sample the goat cheese, have a quiet lunch, then proceed to an ornamental grass arborteum. It's going to be another hot day, but we've traveled with many of these returning Arboretum guests, and so we're looking foward to enjoying the day together as we learn more about North Carolina and the green industry.

May today be a day of respite and grace for you too.

Lin Frye
North Carolina

4 comments:

  1. that picture's pretty. Tranquil days are always nice.

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  2. We just have the plain pink ones around here, Lin--thanks, I didn't even know these existed.

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  3. I so enjoy your paintings and your writing. This one seems especially full of grace to match your day!

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