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Despite its prickly reputation, the California thistle isn’t actually from California! This widespread plant offers nectar and seeds to beneficial insects and birds. While some consider it a weed, its roots help prevent soil erosion. Its deep roots also mean it’s quite persistent, making it a survivor that adapts to many environments. California thistle Description … Read more
Meet the Sycamore maple, a common sight in many parks and gardens! This tree offers more than just shade. Its tough wood is used for furniture and musical instruments. A haven for wildlife, it supports insects and provides nesting spots for birds. Look closely – its distinctive winged seeds spin like helicopters as they fall, … Read more
Ray-grass-de-France, a super versatile grass, is a favorite for lawns, pastures, and sports fields thanks to its quick growth and resilience. It’s also a great soil stabilizer, preventing erosion and feeding local wildlife. This adaptable grass thrives in many conditions and provides a lush, green carpet, making it a popular choice for both practical and … Read more
Loosestrife, a vibrant plant with tall flower spikes, adds beauty to gardens but be warned! Some varieties are incredibly invasive. Historically used for medicine and dyeing, it now primarily attracts pollinators. While it provides nectar, its aggressive growth can outcompete native plants, disrupting local ecosystems. A lovely but potentially problematic addition to any landscape! Loosestrife … Read more
Meet Perennial quaking grass, a charming plant with delicate, heart-shaped seed heads that tremble in the slightest breeze! Often used in dried flower arrangements, it adds a whimsical touch to any bouquet. This grass also provides valuable habitat and food for insects, contributing to healthy ecosystems. Its unique, shimmering quality makes it a delightful addition … Read more
Meet Shepherd’s-purse, a humble weed with heart-shaped seedpods! Often overlooked, it’s a surprisingly useful plant. Historically, people used it for food and to stop bleeding. Birds and other wildlife enjoy its seeds, making it ecologically important. This resourceful little herb thrives almost anywhere, proving even the simplest plants can be pretty amazing! Shepherd’s-purse Description Common … Read more
Meet Soft rush, a common plant found in damp spots! Often used for weaving mats and baskets, it’s surprisingly versatile. This humble plant is also a haven for insects and helps filter water in wetlands, boosting biodiversity. Uniquely, its stems are soft and easily bent, making it a natural and eco-friendly resource. Soft rush Description … Read more
Meet the Curlew-berry, a humble plant with surprising benefits! Loved by birds (curlews especially!) for its tasty berries, it’s a vital food source in coastal habitats. People traditionally used it for dyes and even to soothe skin. Its tough nature helps stabilize dunes, preventing erosion. Look out for its vibrant berries—a sign of a thriving … Read more
Meet Field bindweed, that tenacious vine you’ve probably seen! While some view it as a pesky weed, its leaves were traditionally used for mild medicinal purposes. This plant is surprisingly important to some pollinators and soil health. Keep an eye out for its charming, trumpet-shaped flowers, but be warned, it’s a clever climber known for … Read more
Meet the common horsetail, an ancient plant thriving today! Often found in damp soil, it’s been used for centuries in traditional medicine and as a mild abrasive for cleaning. Horsetail plays an important role in stabilizing soil, and provides food/shelter for some creatures. Interestingly, it lacks flowers and spreads through spores, a throwback to its … Read more