Mesembryanthemum

This flower is a startling proof of the fact
that when nature decides to be vulgar -
really vulgar -
she can achieve the effects of almost blinding beauty.
For nothing could be more opulent,
more blatant,
more shamelessly exhibitionist than
a bed of the Mesembryanthemum in full bloom.
Magenta jostling scarlet,
screaming at cinnamon,
fighting with shocking pink,
yelling against a dozen shades of orange and vermilion.

 
Note: All week long, The Daily Gardener has been sharing quotes from the author Beverley Nichols, who was born on Monday of this week in 1898.
A prolific writer, Nichols is best remembered for his gardening books.

Today I'm featuring excerpts from his book called Forty Favourite Flowers.
It is exactly as described, Nichols sharing his top selections; the flowers he loved most in his garden.
Nichols arranged this book simply, using alphabetical order. Then he just shares some of his favorites.