Heart Shapes in Nature ~ Jacquolyn McMurray

Have you ever studied nature's patterns? I find it interesting to observe how often Mother Nature repeats herself in spirals, hexagons, tessellations, and heart shapes. 

Red Anthuriums

One of the most common heart-shaped plants in Hawai'i is the anthurium. These simple flowers grow in a variety of colors and sizes.  

White Anthurium in Vase

Although my favorite anthuriums are red, this white with a blush of pink has its own distinct elegance. 

Pink Anthuriums in Entryway

And who can deny that pink anthuriums help make this a charming place to stop and rest?







One of my friends gave me a beautiful book on Hawaiian flowers. Published in 1943, the book is a collection of lithographs and verses like the ones below.

Lithograph by T. J. Mundorff

Like a hand-carved piece of

Red Chinese Lacquer

Each wax-like, wrinkled line

Molded in dreams centuries old. 

You've sacrificed your fragrance 

To other flowers,

And held an unforgettable beauty

All your own.

                                         Raymond A. Stewart, Jr.

But, anthuriums are not the only heart-shaped objects in nature.           
                                        

There are leaves,  

coral and lava rock,



     





and even fruit!

  
Next time you take a walk, look around and see if you can spot any heart-shaped objects.  I'd love to see what you find.