Year-Round Bloomer at Selby Botanical Gardens

In the Upper Midwest, summer is often a season of growth and preparation for the transition to autumn and the cold realities of winter. By contrast, this small flower, native to Florida, takes full advantage of the Sunshine State’s subtropical climate. It is known to bloom year-round, though somewhat less frequent during the winter months. That rhythm makes me think about life. We may want to push forward at a relentless pace throughout the year, but as this iris seems to understand, even under ideal conditions there is value in an off-season. Periods of rest and renewal are essential for maintaining a healthy, long-term balance. African Iris (Dietes iridioides). (Marie Selby Botanical Gardens—Sarasota, Florida)

≡Canon R5/RF24-240 109mm f/6.3 1/800sec iso-800