The weather is certainly something. Absolutely perfect, not too cold nor to warm.
Spring Beauty (Claytonia virginica)!
Draba (Tomostima) has started blooming!
A Trout Lily (Erythronium mesochoreum) location that I have been monitoring. In 2017 has been the earliest I have recorded one in bloom. On this day in 2017 it had reached 92F. The usual times I have recorded start the first week in March though the third week. So it is just a wait and see. 🙂
So far in the Trout Lily spot, only a blade of grass was emerging.
An early fall bloomer, the Leavenworth’s Eryngo (Eryngium leavenworthii).
Of course the crustose lichen are not particular as far as the weather goes.
A very hairy small friend. Any ideas?
The Missouri Primrose (Oenothera macrocarpa) seed pod lingers on the barrens. They should start blooming late March at the earliest.
The dead leaves of White Compass Plant (Silphium albiflorum). Expect this endemic plant in May.
Indeed the skeleton of the Narrow-leaf Gayfeather (Liatris punctata var mucronata) reminds me of the fall migration of the Monarchs.
Surely this orangey Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia) is dreaming of a wet spring??
Time to get out and see the possibilities of the new year/season! Consider joining NPSOT or NPAT to learn and enjoy the company of fellow nature enthusiasts!
Ahh….Spring is on it’s way but somehow I never feel ready for it. Will start looking for all those early blooms – like bluets. And the capsules on Funaria are almost ready!
Proud of Olney Illinois. Maybe more will follow.
Ahh….Spring is on it’s way but somehow I never feel ready for it. Will start looking for all those early blooms – like bluets. And the capsules on Funaria are almost ready!
Could the small hairy friend be Diaperia (Evax)?