Kakitsubata colony brings color to Tottori

In Iwami Town, Tottori Prefecture, the tranquil Makidani Matasuke Pond is adorned with the vibrant purple blooms of the kakitsubata, a perennial herb from the Iris family. Growing in clusters along the water's edge, the kakitsubata is distinguished from similar-looking calamus and iris flowers by its distinct white streaks at the base of its petals. This flower has been a beloved symbol of early summer in Japan for centuries, often featuring in poetry. But while Japan used to have many vast colonies of the flowers, few such places remain. Fortunately, the residents of Iwami maintain theirs by meticulously mowing the surrounding grass.