Prairie Spiderwort (Tradescantia
occidentalis)
(February to July)
This plant sets up residence along the edges of the yard. Although the leaves and flowers can be eaten, the roots are poisonous, containing saponin.
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Prairie Spiderwort (Tradescantia
occidentalis) This plant sets up residence along the edges of the yard. Although the leaves and flowers can be eaten, the roots are poisonous, containing saponin. |
Texas Dandelion
(Pyrrhopappus multicaulis) In April this colony of Texas Dandelion rises in its customary spot in the backyard, accompanied by Spiderwort and occasional Wine Cup here and there. Its leaves can be used as potherb if boiled to remove the bitter taste. The very young leaves can be used as salad greens. This flower opens shortly after sunrise and goes back to bed about noon. |
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Yarrow (Achillea
millefolium) This perennial, with fern-like leaves, grows up to three feet tall. The flower heads are composed of 20 to 25 yellowish-white ray flowers and disc flowers with a delicate, lacy appearance. |
Prairie Parsley (Polytaenia
nuttallii) This plant is also called wild dill. Related members of the family include parsley, chervil, caraway, and celery. It is named in honor of an early naturalist, Thomas Nuttall. |
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Pink Evening Primrose (Oenothera speciosa) This flower is also called Showy Primrose, Mexican Primrose, and Amapola. It is sometimes known as "buttercup" because of the cupping of the the petals and the smell of the butter-colored pollen in the center. It prefers the marsh-like remote portions of my backyard. |