Proverbial shrubbery comes alive

“Proverbs in Bloom”

Phipps Conservatory

Through April 15

(412)…

“Proverbs in Bloom”

Phipps Conservatory

Through April 15

(412) 622-6914

Free with student I.D.

Even with the persistent chilliness, there’s no better place to enjoy the sights of spring than Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Phipps’ spring flower show, “Proverbs in Bloom,” will continue through April 15.

This enchanting show is held in the 13-room Victorian glass structure that was founded by Henry Phipps in 1893. He hoped to educate and inspire visitors while bolstering their mental and physical health.

The spring flower show seems to begin outside of the structure with rows of colorful red, orange and yellow tulips accompanying visitors on their walk to the plaza entrance.

The first room leading into the conservatory is the Palm Court. When the doors open, visitors are greeted by the sweet aroma of spring flowers. Cheery pastel-colored doors and seasonal pink tulips, daffodils and the common hyacinth are featured in the room.

Following the theme of the show, visitors will see the actual representations of proverbs through the use of flowers and plants. Some examples are “The grass is always greener on the other side” located in the Fruit and Spice room and “All dressed up and no place to go” found in the Broderie Room.

As the show continues, visitors enter into the South Conservatory, which displays the proverb “I never promised you a rose garden.” This room features an array of beautiful flowers, though no roses, and white lattice structures.

One particular flower featured is called the Persian Buttercup, or Pink Shades. They are delicate, pink in color and look similar to the rose in shape. They grow from a tender bulb and can be planted in the garden in the fall for spring and summer bloom.

The Fruit and Spice Room is one that can’t be missed. The room not only features the installation for “The grass is always greener on the other side,” but also houses truly interesting fruit and spice plants such as cinnamon, coffee and fig trees.

The installation for this proverb is perhaps the most obvious, but cleverly created. Divided by a white picket fence, a circular garden features two different types of grass – one, of course, is greener than the other.

The Fern Room is equally enjoyable. Entering it is like looking at elaborate artwork. The “Redd up Your Room” interpretation plays with complementary colors by juxtaposing the bright red flowers of the common rush plant with the rich green color of numerous ferns. The red flowers are sparingly placed, creating a beautiful and striking scene.

Featuring yet another well-known proverb is the Serpentine Room with “After every rainstorm comes a rainbow.” This winding, redbrick pathway and garden features a variety of tulips, colorful umbrellas, a wall of water and more. After all, spring would not be complete without rain.

There are far more creative proverbs, beautiful rooms and unique flowers to discover within Phipps, so don’t miss your chance to see this imaginative show. For more information, visit www.phipps.conservatory.org.