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James Knock, who lives in the United Kingdom, has been a dedicated collector of Strawn waterlily cultivars for many years and is an expert in their identification and cultivation. Most cultivars were obtained directly from Strawn Water Gardens in the years 1994 through 1998. In these galleries, James takes us through seasonal and age related changes in coloration of many Strawn cultivars. High summer in England, sometimes only two to three weeks long, provides the most dramatic colors of all, often not seen in other climates. None of the images have been color enhanced or color adjusted. |
to the
Brilliance of Kirk Strawn
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'Red Spider' 1993 |
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A bizarre name for a really bizarre plant. If
you like things that are weird and wonderful, then you'll love
this one. When I first received this back in 1994, I had no idea
what to expect, subsequently I was surprised to see the first
flowers all streaked and crinkled. Little did I know, this was
to be the beginning of a love-hate relationship with this hybrid
that I have to this day. Although other hybrids sometimes produce crinkled blooms, this is generally during adverse weather conditions. This one is unique in that it never grows out of it. Yes, Kirk actually selected it for this unique quality. Whether you consider this a good reason to select a new hybrid or not, you have to admit it's something different. A real talking point. It always makes me smile anyway. Whether you like it or not is simply a matter of taste. |
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As already mentioned 'Red Spider' flowers are unique, but I should also mention how these qualities evolve over time. In many ways the most bizarre flowers are produced by young immature specimens. These tend to be almost white with numerous pinkish red streaks. Some of these blooms are so crinkled that they can have difficulties opening fully. Then as plants become more established the colour intensifies until very little of the white areas are left. Just to cap all this, fully mature specimens hold their flowers high above the foliage, tropical style. | |
 'Red Spider' is free flowering, but does seem to appreciate a particularly sunny aspect. There is a slight question mark regarding the hardiness of this hybrid, therefore I would recommend that plants are placed well below the frost line in winter. I have grown to love it, but it's definitely not for everyone. |
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For shorter downloads:
N. 'Barbara Davies' through N. 'Clyde Ikins' | N. 'Colorado' through N. 'Liou'
N. 'Little Sue' through N. 'Pink Pumpkin' | N. 'Pink Sparkle' through N. 'Yuh Ling'