In the middle of Act I the Camellia Japonica is joined by its costar,
the Azalea, and together they march on triumphantly to the enthusiastic
applause of an appreciative audience. During January and February the
Camellia Japonica reaches its heights, graciously yielding the spotlight
to the glorious Azalea as the scene changes from winter to spring. There
are no fitting words to describe the colorful and appealing drama of the
dainty Camellia Japonica meeting the glorious Azalea when both are at
their best. It is an act that never fails—a spectacle never to be
forgotten.
Of the countless number of words written to describe the beauty that
catches the eye during Act II, nothing yet has been written or said to
do justice to the varicolored Azalea plants in their fullest bloom. “The
Flaming Drama of the South” it has been appropriately called in Better
Homes and Gardens. The plants range in size from the midget variety to
those ancient bushes that grow to the extent of over 100 feet in
circumference, with their histories dating back over two centuries. When
the Azalea plant is in full bloom, every vestige of foliage is entirely
smothered in the crimson, coral, white or purple flowers that the bush
may bear. It is not surprising that the startling performance of the
amazingly brilliant Azalea should be rewarded by a tremendous ovation
from an enthralled audience of many thousands. Nowhere in the world is
the gorgeous Azalea found in a setting so fitting as in Bellingrath
Gardens.
[Illustration: (uncaptioned)]
[Illustration: (uncaptioned)]