The lesser babka

Sorry to start the new year on an off note. Such are the demands of a chronicler’s website. As the minor tragedies unfold, it is imperative that the information be shared, right? One of the vagaries of amaryllis supply is the fact that some varieties, no matter how good, are put out of production without warning. Such was the case for ‘Solomon’, arguably one of Penning’s finest and most personable introductions. The gradual transformation from vivid to subtle coloration as the long lasting blooms developed, coupled with the uniquely dark and enchanting eye made it singular. Amaryllis Bulb Company quickened my jaded heart when it added this one to its catalog in 2014. It seemed no accident; the accurate photo was accompanied by all the right verbiage, and summed up with with “We are happy to have this old favorite back this year!” This clearly pointed to the comeback story of the year. With one more of two purchased bulbs yet to bloom, the initial disappointment is settling in to the likely realization that this was a cruel hoax.  Back in 2007 ‘Naranja’ was the substitute when ‘Solomon’ was purchased from a local nursery, the year before, it was ‘Charmeur’. Upon opening late December 2014, the familiar and more ordinary ‘Nagano’ is what was passed off this season. Sad to say, but compared to ‘Solomon’, ‘Nagano’ is definitely the lesser babka. Such a shame, and money down the drain.