One leaf at time
Meet Quackgrass! Often called a weed, this tough plant is more than meets the eye. It helps prevent soil erosion with its strong roots, offering food and shelter to small critters. Historically, people used it for its medicinal properties and as a food source. While sometimes pesky, Quackgrass proves that even the most overlooked plants … Read more
Meet the Spinulose Woodfern! This adaptable fern adds beauty to shady spots, providing shelter for wildlife and enriching the soil. Known for its lacy, evergreen fronds, it’s sometimes used in landscaping or even holiday decorations. What’s neat? Its delicate leaves unfurl in spirals, like tiny green fiddlenecks, offering a captivating glimpse into the fern’s life … Read more
Meet field sorrel, the tangy plant that adds a lemony zing to salads! Beyond culinary uses, it’s a valuable source of food for wildlife and helps improve the soil. This adaptable plant thrives in various conditions, often popping up in fields and meadows. Watch out, though! Too much can be sour on the stomach, so … Read more
The Common-briar, a thorny delight, offers more than just a pretty rosehip! Thickets of it provide shelter and food for wildlife, playing a vital role in local ecosystems. Humans use its vitamin-rich hips for jams and teas. Watch out for its prickles, though – those thorns help the plant climb and defend itself, making it … Read more
Meet meadow cress, a cheerful wildflower dotting meadows! This edible plant is a tasty treat in salads and adds a peppery zing to dishes. It’s a vital food source for butterflies and other pollinators, helping our ecosystems thrive. Unique for its rapid seed dispersal, meadow cress ensures its survival by shooting seeds far and wide! … Read more
Meet Klamathweed, also known as St. John’s Wort! This sunny, yellow-flowered plant is often used to lift spirits and soothe minor scrapes. While sometimes seen as a pesky weed, Klamathweed supports diverse insect life and helps stabilize soil. It’s a fascinating plant with a rich history, known for its unique, translucent-dotted leaves that seem to … Read more
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