Local Yokels

The somewhat derogatory term was used by U.S. troops in the 1950's when stationed away from home. It referred to local residents, who were, in their eyes, less sophisticated than residents of their home locale. Well, in this post, we will see that our Local Yokel wildflowers are definitely just as sophisticated as those anywhere!

The second big wave of Local Yokel spring blooms is underway and you can find these fresh faces in most of our natural areas. Right now, the best bang for your wildflower buck is probably at Champoeg State Park near Newberg. The Camas is in full bloom in the fields and a walk along the wooded river trail is like a trip down a northwest wildflower book! Also worth a visit are Jackson Bottom Wetlands and Rood Bridge Park, both in Hillsboro.

Most of these blooms have appeared in this journal before, so I won't repeat their stories here. A note about the Field Chickweed in the last photo. It was growing in a narrow band, on each side of Highway 219 (south of Newberg), near the Willamette River bridge. Quite a sight, for about half a mile!

Flower names: hover your mouse or pointer over each photo. Click or tap to enlarge.