ACT II.
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.
