Prairie Wildflowers and One with Killer Defense

A few new wildflowers popped.  On the left is a close-up of the bloom and on the right is a distance shot (pre-bloom.)

This is a Prairie Blazing Star, and they should be popping soon.  I found this early 'popper' on the creek peninsula. 

This one was near the path by the eastern bridge.  I believe it is a Spotted Knapweed - an invasive species.  This one was  small - less than a foot tall. It produces its own natural herbicide called "catechin" that kills the plants around it.

Lastly is a Prairie Dock.  It has HUGE leaves - a foot wide!  The leaves grow around the base, then a flowering stalk shoots up several feet (taller than me!) 

How do you like the side-by-sides?  Are they useful for helping to spot them on your own?  Do you like the lovely close-ups better?  Let me know!

Hope you enjoyed!

~ Robin