• flowers,  natural areas,  Plants

    Western Goat’s Beard

    Western Goat’s Beard at Pineridge Natural Area

    Western salsify was introduced into North America where it has become widespread, being reported from all the continental United States except for a few in the far south-east, and all provinces of Canada except Newfoundland and the northern territories. Like most salsifies, the western salsify grows as an annual or occasionally biennial forb. The inflorescence opens early in the morning and often closes up by late afternoon. Later the plant forms a seed head resembling that of the dandelions but is distinctly larger. Alternative names include western goat’s beard, wild oysterplant, yellow salsify, yellow goat’s beard, meadow goat’s beard, goat’s beard, goatsbeard, common salsify, or salsify. The basal leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. Native Americans ate the roots, which are best cooked, and are said to taste like oysters. I took this image while at the natural area this morning. Happy Sunday!

  • haiku,  landscape,  natural areas,  Pineridge Natural Area,  sunrises,  writing/reading

    Among the Salsify

    among the salsify
    return to a sacred place
    morning sunrise

    ms

    Awoke early so arrived at Pineridge Natural Area just after 5:00 am. It was already 69 degrees and hardly any breeze. Quiet all around me. A stillness. I walked down the trail from my bench to where there are several salsify plants and patiently waited with them for this morning’s sunrise. I take deep breaths, grateful for life. Hope you have a wonderful weekend!