Space Invaders 2

Usually, there is something to appreciate about nearly every wildflower. Even most weeds have their appeal, if not to humans, then to bees and other insects. Typically, the visual appeal is the draw for us photographers - the colors of the flower itself and the patterns formed at a distance. Although, as a naturalist, one must acknowledge the damage that some invasive weeds can do as they force out native plants. For example, Spotted Knapweed, can quickly wipe out acres of native plants that are food for wild mammals and/or ranch herds.

On a brighter note, the weedy invaders in this post are mostly harmless, but can make quite a visual impact.

English Daisy (Bellis perennis)

If you have a lawn in your yard, you probably have these small daisies popping up as well. In fact, in some areas they are known as Lawn Daisies. The "flower" heads are about the size of a U.S. quarter and stay close to the ground. Many are pink before they open up and then turn white. As with all daisies, the real flowers are the tiny yellow blooms in the center of the head.

Champoeg State Park - 4/07/2014

Field Mustard (Brassica campestris)

The mustard family is huge, with over 3,700 known species. And chances are you have seen several of these, just by taking a road trip to anywhere in spring or summer. The common Field Mustard grows along roads and in disturbed fields, lots, or construction areas. The mustards have adapted very well, becoming widespread. But some species are heavily cultivated to make mustard spices and hot dog condiments!

Field south of Newberg - 4/10/2014

Stork's Bill (Erodium cicutarium)

This year, I've noticed quite a few of these growing near hazelnut orchards here in Washington County. Also called Filaree, these plants are members of the geranium family. As with garden geraniums, the fruits are shaped like a stork's bill and the Latin name does in fact mean "crane." A native of Eurasia, these invaders are prolific and can tolerate dry soil for extended periods.

Swaths of Filaree on Laureview Road - 4/09/2014

Dovefoot Geranium (Geranium molle)

A close relative of the Stork's Bill above, the Dovefoot Geranium grows mostly in slightly shaded areas along roads or park trails. It's also a prolific colonizer and has similar flowers, pink and about 1/3 inch wide.

Dovefoot Geranium on Laurelview Road - 4-21-2014

Ground Ivy (Glecoma hederacea)

Before finding these, I was not familiar with this member of the Mint family. The small, attractive purple flowers resemble Penstemon, but the leaves are definitely mint-like! It can be used as a ground cover in lightly shaded areas, but it is hard to contain. It's also called Creeping Charlie. Early European settlers brought it with them for tea and beer making. It may have medical uses as well. Refer to the Wiki article.

Ground Ivy on the Sams Walker Nature Trail - 4/20/2014