I am intimidated and totally challenged by watercolor; however, I refuse to give up on this medium.  Here is my latest attempt using a photo I took back in 2002. 

Comments and helpful tips are very much encouraged.

I agree with your perspective.  It actually is better than it was, but with using watercolor (as opposed to more forgiving mediums), I was running the risk of over working it.  The perspective is very similar to the photograph, but I should have used more of my creative license to adjust the composition a little more in the sketch by making  large, older leaves behind and to the right of  the flower more elongated.    I'll try another watercolor soon. 

I used some white from the small collection of watercolor tubes; however, it had more of the consistency of gauche when I was adding it to my reds to make more pinks.   What would be a good "red" in watercolor to use as a wash to accomplish "pink"?

Great comments and advise!  Have a great day. 

Thanks for the great advise on color.... looks like I'll be shopping for more paint!  :-)