It could not have been a more beautiful day on Tuesday. We were hitting some of Shirley’s favorite spots. And it had been awhile since we had visited them.
Next stop, Prairie Phlox (Phlox pilosa) and it is abundant on the roadsides now! And this was the plant that led us to a mystery plant.
What was this mystery plant? I had an idea, but it did not pan out. I could not for the life of me come to an answer. So I consulted an expert. Abby solved the mystery! It is Bupleurum rotundifolium, an invasive! A few of its common names include Green Gold, Hares Ear, and Hound’s Ear. It is an annual in the Apiaceae family. Certainly does not have the usual carrot-like leaves. It has been collected in Texas in multiple places including the LBJ NG. So now if you see them, quick pull them up. And let’s hope they do not become really invasive. Thanks Abby for your help!
Its flowers were really tiny!
The next stops were much better with natives! For example, this Yellow Flax (Linum rigidum) is always a pleasure to see! Its delicate petals seem to fall off when you just look at it. LOL
Redroot or Jersey-tea (Ceanothus herbaceus) is a favorite of the insects! However, it was cool that morning so not many visitors to it that day.
Another bright yellow flower, Engelmann’s Daisy. Indeed a great plant to include in your garden!
Texas Bindweed (Convolvulus equitans)!
Missouri Primrose (Oenothera macrocarpa) is really prolific this year! And Claire tells me it is easy to grow from seed.
Skullcap is having a good year too!
Last but not least today is the Bastard Toadflax (Comandra umbellatata ssp pallida). It was not blooming yet. And even when it is blooming, it is an inconspicuous plant. However, it was a plant Shirley enjoyed telling people about. With a twinkle in her eye, she would tell you the common name LOL. So the above photos (except the invasive plant) were at one of Shirley’s favorite spots, Tyler Bluff.
Pretty sure the “Mystery Plant” is popping up at the Caddo Grasslands – was wondering “what is THAT” when riding Trail 4 last week, unit 19. I’ll yank it next time!
Haha I love bastard toadflax too. There was a bunch of it at field sites in Canada when I was there. Seed pods looked like blueberries shape.
Interesting to note. I should go look sometime.
♥😍🥰
So many great photos. You’ve inspired me to go on a Missouri primrose hunt (another of my faves, though I love them all).
Thanks and have a great hunt for the MO primrose!
Pretty sure the “Mystery Plant” is popping up at the Caddo Grasslands – was wondering “what is THAT” when riding Trail 4 last week, unit 19. I’ll yank it next time!