I have know Clayton Burkey for more that a half century, since I was 14 years old -- he taught me General Science that year. He inspired my interest in hybridizing. I have many of Clayton's cultivars. Two of them that are not mentioned in this forum (unless I have missed something) are "Sophia's Magic" and "Kirsten's Corsage." Both are exceptional performers in my garden. Kirsten's Corsage has received an AHS award, but Sophia's Magic seems to be under the radar. It curls and twists in a variety of graceful ways. It is among my very favorites -- a real asset in the front of the garden. Here it is with his famous "Starman's Quest" in the background. Note how the petal of the one on the left curls clockwise around a bud, while the one on the right curls counterclockwise around a bud.
Kirsten's Corsage also gives a wonderful show, improving each year. These photos are of it with the late-afternoon sun coming through it's petals from behind.
