This Monday, May 30, and every day, we praise the men and women who sacrificed their lives in the name of our country. May their courage and dedication never be forgotten.
The Oriental Poppy, the typical red poppy is a symbol of Memorial Day. This symbolism began with the poem, “In Flanders Field” written by a World War I surgeon who was struck by the sight of the red flowers growing on a battle field.
Papaver orientale is the botanical name and symbolizes honor for those who have passed.
Cantigny Gardens has displayed hundreds of thousands of silk poppies in their war museum.
Video credit ABC News
Oriental poppies bloom in late May and June.
When their blooms wither, so does their foliage, possibly creating a blank space in a garden. Poppies are best when inter-planted with late summer perennial such as the hardy hibiscus.
