Coolness and absence of heat and haste indicate fine qualities.

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson 

I M A G E S

I can't remember the name of the top incredibly cool plant, maybe friend Mary remembers. The dragonfly image was taken in July 2001- I remember because it was a milestone summer. Nigella in the back garden- oh yes she's an eager reseeder. The fab origanum rotundifolia with purple sage- two of my favorite rose companions. Macleya cordata I fell in love with in the Nori and Sandra Pope garden that once graced Hadspen House in the UK. I had to have it- found it's invasive. Me on my first and only visit to the glorious Lake Tahoe- caught by friend Mary.

While posting a picture to FB, I came across some pretty wild companions. They definitely hold their own with roses, as for what the roses might think? You tell me.

This iris is not all that unusual, rather dramatic here with Pink Pet in M. Wellan's LA garden. But take a look at the next shot . . .

This garden belongs to Marilyn's friend Evelyn. Verbena bonariensis has taken over amongst about a hundred roses. What a sight- I really started rethinking the possibilities.

Here in my garden, phlox and fuschia boogie with Oklahoma. Cutting back and pulling out are essential to keep up with these kinds of looks.

If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it's because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music he hears, however measured or far away.

~Thoreau