Butter and Eggs

The early western settlers must have had breakfast in mind when they first found Butter and Eggs (Linaria vulgaris). To my eye the blooms do have a dairy product coloring! This non-native plant blooms from late Spring though Summer, along gravel roads and in pastures. It's also called Common Toadflax and closely resembles Dalmatian Toadflax.

According to Wikipedia, this plant has been used in folk medicine for a variety of ailments. A tea made from the leaves was taken as a laxative and diuretic. In addition, a tea made in milk instead of water has been used as an insecticide (yow!). It is confirmed to have diuretic and fever-reducing properties as well. However, I am not suggesting you try any of this! Just stick to the eggs and toast for breakfast!

We spotted a small clump of these hiding in tall grass at Jackson Bottom Wetlands on 6/18/2013.