Border Patrol Early June, 2009
Of The Seasonal Walk Saga
By Tovah Martin
Brave New Borders
The New York Botanical Garden is known for its daring deeds. Their exhibits are staged to raise eyebrows and all their events are intentionally over-the-top horticulturally. In a city that isn’t easily fazed, the NYBG has to work hard to turn heads. And that’s why Jacqueline van der Kloet went big into alliums.
The alliums are just beginning to step on stage. But already, New Yorkers are doing double takes when strolling by the otherworldly blossoms that look like fireworks balanced on slender stalks. Where the sun is shining brightest, Allium christophii and A. schubertii are starting their spaceship impersonations much to the delight of their urban audience. And that’s just for starters. In a few weeks, the border will really be seeing stars of all shapes, sizes, and hues. It’s just the latest facet in a performance meant to keep Gotham agog.
