There was an article in our local paper today. Woodriff created star gazer just 10 miles from me. I had visited him back in the late 90's, before he died. I didn't know he was the one that created this beautiful lily. I was into bearded ireses so if he mentioned it I don't remember. Almost every day I would drive by his place. He passed away in 1997. By the article, he sold most of his lilies to a local company Sun Valley. He lived in a town called McKinleyville, approx. 20 miles from Eureka in the Redwoods.
Star Gazer
Neat story that you met Woodriff. It's funny , you explaining how at the time, you were more into iris and didn't think much of it. Woodriff was one who made quite an impact in the lily world. Stargazer is a huge success and probably the most widely known lily in the world.
How nice to know the history. Thank you for sharing.
Diane
I think Easter Lilies & Stargazers are the only lilies most people know.
When I was at NALS (North American Lily Society) this summer, I was surprised at how many of the guys whosat at our table were prominent breeders. They would introduce themselves, talk and about 1/2 hour later I would mentally whop my forehead. " Wow! I have some of your lilies!" duh. How clever of me to figure it out...
When I first went onto the net I found 'iris-talk'. Went on with inanda as I was told never EVER give out your real name or location etc etc. I was amazed to find people using (as I thought) false names, names of famous irisarians. Took me awhile to clue in. Duh!!!
inanda
Are you a famous irisarian?
No, not at all.
inanda
I'll bet your grow them, though. Who can resist them? I only have about 12 varieties because that's all the room I have. I may try to get my DH to build another terrace so I can have more.
Why not give out your real name or location? Afraid of people raiding your flowerbeds?