(for Sue Reynolds)

Neither of us could name it—
but one of us from eastern Canada
was not likely to know it, since

this herbaceous perennial thrives
in warmer climates like mine, though,
like me, is not hardy enough

for northeastern winters. But,
walking by the haystack of a bush
on our way to lunch in my town,

so happy for this long-awaited visit,
we found ourselves riveted by
flowers the color of fresh lava

beaming at us. We had to admire
their determination to overtake
the sidewalk, reluctant to tear

our eyes away from the blaring
blossoms as bright and alluring
as the sun.