White Flower, Red Baneberry

In the shadows of the forest, white flowers look brilliant when the occasional shafts of light hit them.  Curiously enough, this white beauty is Red Baneberry.

Enjoy!

~ Robin

Jack is Turning Red

Jack-in-the-pulpits have formed fruit.  Along the marsh road the berries are bright red.  The fruit might be tempting, but don't give in, it is poison.  Some Indian tribes have developed a process to render this plant's poison harmless, but it is a process that takes a long time.  Not exactly on my list of things to try.  ;-)

Enjoy! (Just don't eat!)

~ Robin

Wild Mint

Wild Mint grows behind the backfield fence.  This useful herb is both a food and a medicine, even a bug and rat repellent.  I can not say I have tried it, but I do find it interesting.

Enjoy!

~ Robin

Unusual and First Summer Flowers

The spikey ball-like flowers of the Rattlesnake Master are starting to open at the park.  They almost glow white when they are in bloom.  Although abundant at this park, it is on the State Special Concern list.  It is not recognized as being found 'native' in our park - most likely because seeded.

An Obedient Plant is growing near the creek outlet.  This is the first time I've found this plant at the park.  It is an early bloomer, usually blooming in August.

Enjoy!

~ Robin



Photos taken July 20, 2012

Four O'Clock's in the Morning

What a fun thing to say, "I was out taking pictures of Four O' Clocks this morning."  No, I was not out at 4:00 a.m.   I was out taking pictures of the native flower: Wild Four O' Clock.  


An Iowa study found that this flower does indeed open between 3:30 and 4:00 in the afternoon.  Pollination usually happens at night.  I was out early enough to catch these before they closed for the day.  I was out early ... just not THAT early.  


Beautiful morning.  Enjoy!


~ Robin