Bridal Wreath

  Ever since I was a little girl, the Bridal Wreath shrub was one of my favorites.  It still is.  From the graceful branches to the tiny, rose-like flowers, this shrub is a showstopper!  The entire bush is covered with snow white blooms every spring.  It can be showcased as a single plant or planted in a hedgerow to really make a statement. The bush that bloomed forever in my yard was given to me by Pop.  He had separated one of his bushes not long after Mark and I built the Little Bayou House. One morning, he brought a portion of the bush over and helped me plant it. So you can imagine my sadness back years ago when a hurricane decided to take my Bridal Wreath shrub with it when the tidal surge retreated back into the Gulf of Mexico.  Hurricane Katrina did more than damage or destroy homes, she took memories.  Or at least she tried to take mine.

  Not long after we cleared the debris, my sister brought a small portion of a bush to me.  This, also, was a start of one of Pop's bushes.  I babied that small sprig until it was strong enough to be on its own.  Now, the thing is gorgeous!  Yesterday evening, Mark and I took a hike to enjoy a bit of the spring weather. Our walk took us around the side of the house and on to the Bay.  Just before we reached the board path, the Bridal Wreath greeted us with all of its glory on display.  It was gorgeous! Being situated on the top of the hill, we could see the bright blue of the Bay behind our glorious white bush!

  Bridal Wreath is actually Spirea.  The common name of Bridal Wreath comes from the long sprays of flowers that can be fashioned into head adornments.  Years and years ago, it was not unheard of for a bridal party to wear wreaths of Spirea on their heads during the wedding ceremony.  I can only imagine how beautiful the maids and bride must have been!  The tiny rose shaped blooms and bright green leaves would make a gorgeous headpiece!  Folks of today just have no creativity!