Do you like bold flowers? You know, ones that make a rather dramatic statement. I do! As with most things in my life, boring just will not do. I began reviewing some of the state flowers when I ran across the Pennsylvania state flower. That’s when I knew that it would just have to be this month’s state flower highlight.

Photo courtesy of 50states.com

The mountain laurel (Kalmia latiflolia) is incredibly beautiful. There is no mistaking this flower for another. It has its own unique personality. It stands out because it’s different but in such a way that it’s mesmerizing. In other words, this is me if I were a flower. Just kidding.

I know a lot of people that go out of their way to stand out while blending in. I mean by this that they have the same qualities as other people, but enhance the ones that most people overlook. Some dress differently. Others wear dramatic makeup. It is this desire to have differences appreciated that I love about these people. It is also the same thing that made me instantly blog about the mountain laurel.

Pennsylvania florists are rather advantageous as far as the mountain laurel is concerned. While the rest of us have to visit Pennsylvania or see pictures to view the flower, florists in Pennsylvania need only look out their windows at the countryside to catch a glimpse. Lucky, lucky them!

Regardless, it’s easy to get lost in the inspiration that comes from looking at flowers like the mountain laurel. If these flowers could talk, the mountain laurel would surely say these inspiring words about creating unique flower arrangements:

• Be bold! Make a statement.
• Don’t be afraid to express individuality and creativity.
• Empowerment is amazing. Live confidently, well assured that your worth is immense.
• Be sweet and endearing, but conformity is boring. Feel free to stand out!

I try to live by these credos which is why I absolutely love this flower and know that you will too!