Revival Time!

  Years and years ago, my aunt gave me the start of many plants that grew in her gardens.  Aunt Marie always had beautiful gardens about her place and some of the most interesting plants could be found there.  One plant in particular stands out as a most memorable one.  The plant has a large head of tiny, purple flowers and some of the smelliest (stinky!) leaves that I have ever been around.  The plant does not have a stench unless you rub against the leaves.  Then...watch out!  Then, again, it must just be me because some folks have no problem with it.  Several of my sisters-in-law seem to like the "scent".  I guess it is sort of like those of us that like the smell of garlic vs those who do not.  Anyway, the plant is a favorite of mine regardless of its scented leaves. 

  When Aunt Marie gave the plant to me, I was thrilled that it did so well.  The start grew rapidly and multiplied greatly for the next few years.  Each summer, blooms filled the tops of the plants and attracted all sorts of butterflies.  Then, along came a few hurricanes, an illness and a lot of neglect.  These plants along with most others in the garden whithered and died out.  I was saddened at the loss but just did not have the energy to even worry long about it.  Then, a few years ago, a small shoot came up from an existing root.  It struggled and finally gave out without blooming.  The next year, the root again sprouted and gave me hope.  No bloom was seen that year either.  I started caring for the plant again and soon it was healthy and, today, a bloom!  I now have five small plants and the one blooming.  Hopefully, this means that the gardens will soon be filled with the purple blooms and many butterflies!  I am excited!

  The only downside to this whole tale is the fact that I cannot recall the name of the plant.  As matter of fact, I am not sure I was ever told the name but it matters not.  The plant and its smelly leaves are back and I am happy! Perhaps one of my cousins will recall the name and refresh my memory...hopefully!