Waltz of the Flowers

Cosmos are an herbaceous, annual, wildflower that is native to Mexico.  ‘Though most Cosmos in Ontario are cultivars, there are increasing numbers of re-wilded Cosmos.  Interestingly, the seeds are informally known as hitchhikers — they have tiny hooks that can catch on animal fur and the animals (squirrels mostly, in our area) carry them to fields, scrublands, and meadows where they take root and flourish as wildflowers.  

Fun Fact:  In the Victorian language of flowers, Cosmos symbolise a wish for deep peace, balance, and harmony.  Isn’t that appropriate at this time in our history?  

Waltz of the Flowers^†

Soft pastel petals waltzing on the breeze,
A sweet little landing for furrow bees.
In our garden where summer flowers grow,
The delicate cosmos put on a show.

Pink romantic tutus brush on the ground,
White classical tutus spin all around,
Pale lavender capes flutter in the breeze,
All in their joyful, wild, ballet of threes. 

The blooms pirouette to an unheard tune,
Their nectar makes the ligated bee swoon,
Fuzzy bees pause their gathering to see.
This joyful choreography for three.

’Til next time, y’all…

^†Borrowed from Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s ballet “The Nutcracker”.