They are erupting now, all
over town, their upright limbs loving        
the southern summer sun.  Thick
bunches of blooms burst
from yards, rise from medians, crane
over fences, brave the planted plots
of fast food joints even, plunked
between the asphalt and the exhaust.  

Their names!  I want to climb up
and lie on a rosy pillow of “Pink Velour”
dance to “Red Rocket”
dream in “Pride of India”
taste “Peppermint Lace,” “Plum Magic”
on a hot night, drink
of “Twilight” and “Delta Jazz”  

Colors dazzle.
Raspberries come to mind
intense and juicy
right off the vine
and raspberry popsicles too
staining your fingers and tongue,
creamsicles, bubble gum,
purple grapes and cherry tarts.            

The candy store has painted its brick
building pale peach, in front their crepe
myrtles bloom the color of lilacs.   
It makes my heart flutter, such a delicate marriage.