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| A carpet of Stream Violet and Oaks Toothwort |
This time of year, our woodland trails in western Oregon really come to life in the wildflower arena. I've already posted about a few of the local favorites, such as the Stream Violet and Western Trillium, but this post is a quick look at what else is blooming right now (4/14/2014).
Western Spring Beauty (Claytonia sibirica)
We've seen these on just about every woodland trail in the area. Blooms are only 1/2 inch at most and emerge with slightly pink stripes. They get about 7 inches high. Named after the American botanist, John Clayton.
Hooker's Fairy Bell (Prosartes hookeri)
Taller than the spring beauties above, the white blossoms hang down and have long stamens that exceed the petals. The flower does resemble a bell somewhat.
Wild Bleeding Heart (Dicentra formosa)
You've probably seen these easy to identify flowers in the forest or in our local parks that have natural areas. The pinkish flowers are somewhat heart-shaped, but not sure if they look like they are bleeding! The leaves are fern-like but are not evergreens. There are many cultivars that for sale in nurseries as well. They tend to be more red than pink.
Star-Flowered False Solomon's Seal (Maianthemum stellata)
One of several woodland plants with similar looking leaves. The flowers are tiny, measuring only about 1/4 inch per bloom. They form dense colonies that can blanket the ground. Berries are produced, but are not tasty at all!
Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum)
These colorful pink flowers are only a tad larger than the spring beauties above and are members of the Geranium genus. Also known as Stinky Bob because the crushed leaves smell like burning tires. The plant was used for toothaches and nosebleeds in traditional herbal medicine!
Bonus Section!
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| Some Western Trillium turn purple as they wane... |
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| Fresh Sword Ferns (Polystichum munitum) emerging from existing plant. |
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