While last weekend's Philadelphia Flower Show garnered attention near and far, a quieter, albeit largely attended, exhibit and competition was taking place at nearby Longwood Gardens. The Clivia Show, presented at Longwood annually by the North American Clivia Society, brought together the talents of Longwood's own staff and of independent breeders as well for a colorful presentation that served as an appropriate harbinger for the warmer, springtime days ahead.
Shown here is the first place winner in the pastel/pink category, cultivated by Mike Berbaum of Pottstown, Pa. A research scientist by trade, what began for Berbaum as a hobby has grown into a bit of a specialty nursery and a current greenhouse around four times the size of the one that started it all. In total, Berbaum, a member of the North American Clivia Society, took home four ribbons, three of which were for first place.
Of course, no trip to Longwood would complete without a tour of the grounds and the former home of the man who made it all possible, Pierre du Pont; a man whose entry atrium was bigger than most city apartments. Du Pont was known for offering up his property in order to shine a light on the leading artists of his time and Longwood continues the tradition to this day.
Tickets go on sale this Friday, March 15, for Longwood's 2013 Summer Arts & Performance Series. The season-long event list includes the Wine & Jazz Festival and performers as varied as Buddy Guy, The Philadelphia Orchestra, The Beach Boys and Pat Benatar.
· Longwood Gardens Summer Performance Calendar [Official]
· Longwood Gardens Homepage [Official]
—Jennifer Quail