Many, Many Names

   Sometimes it amuses me how many names one plant can have.  I understand that a lot are regional names given by the locals but it must be awfully confusing to folks who are dead set that one name is only allowed for any plant and that name is the one they know.  Personally, I am good with whatever you call your plants.  No problems.  Still, it amuses me.  

  For instance, for years now I have been growing a odd little plant that my aunt gave to me.  Parrot Lily is what I had always been told was the name.  Ok, so good!  I knew a name and that was purely satisfactory.  Who needs anything more?  Well, there is more (as always).  It appears that my Parrot Lily is a Peruvian Lily which is also a Princess Lily or to some a Lily of the Incas.  In reality, it is an Alstroemeria.  With that big name it is no wonder folks found easier things to call the plant.

  All of this name finding came about simply because as I was cutting grass this morning, I noticed that the lilies had formed seed pods.  To me, seed pods of a plant can be just as interesting as the blooms.  The pods remind me of a stained glass window (without the multicolors).   As I was cutting, I made a mental note to collect the seed pods for a future planting.  While the lilies grow really well under the shade of the orange trees, it would be fun to have them in other parts of the gardens, as well.  Parrots have to fly, you know!  

More than just plants...

  My gardens that surround the Little Bayou House are a mishmash of plants.  These were mostly gifted to me by long gone family members and dear friends.  During the spring and early summer months, the backyard begins to resemble a rainforest of sorts.  Plants literally get so entangled that it is impossible to walk the paths.  These plants come up and grow where they please and I could not be happier with the look. 

  There are two areas that are completely covered with the gloriosa lilies.  The lilies have multiplied and are now entwined with the citrus trees and buckeye tree.  Gloriosa lilies have a need for a trellis as they are tall and spindly but, over time, the plants have solved their problems on their own.  Each leaf has a tendril that will wrap tightly around anything that is within reach so you better not lallygag about the garden too long or you may become a trellis yourself!  The gloriosa lilies were a gift from Pop.  His gardens were always impeccably maintained and the lilies always were showstoppers!  

  In an area nor far from the gloriosas, the parrot lilies have outdone themselves.  Parrot lilies are also known as Peruvian lilies or Inca Lilies.   For most of the year, the plant grows close to the ground with the prettiest little rosettes of round leaves.  Then, suddenly, they shoot up tall stalks with 7 to 11 blooms in a cluster at the top.  Each bloom on mine are deep red edged with green.  They are tube like flowers that draw hummingbirds and butterflies in droves.  The parrot lilies were a gift from a favorite aunt.  She had them planted by the steps of the door leading to the Bay.  I remember helping her weed this garden one time and she gave lots of advice on how to let plants and people have their own space.  Her gardens were always a wonderland of interesting plants. 

  While my gardens will never compare to those of the folks who gifted the plants, they are filled with the love that came with the gifts.  I think of these folks each time I meander the paths ducking beneath the low hanging branches and admiring the variety of blooms.  Today, it occurred to me that gardens are more than just plants.  They are true friends, great teachers and keepers of memories.