I love tulips and one of my favorite spring flowers to pair them with is the iris. The radiating narrow petals of the iris are a good counterpoint to the broad petals and simple cup shape of the tulip. I think that the yellow orange color of the tulip is magnificent when placed near blues and violets; it really comes to life. The crooked stem of the tulip makes me think that it is a bit wayward (and perhaps a bit creative) compared to the very straight iris stem. The simple shapes of the river stones echo the tulip shape and help it to create a graceful diagonal movement. The stones also are reminders of water which is so necessary for the blossoms of spring to bloom. - Jane Jones