Over a month ago, in the lush valley by our vegetable garden, skunk cabbage, or swamp lantern, (Lysichiton americanum) sprouts began pushing their way through the boggy, sandy, soils they so love. For me, this perennial plant is a harbinger of spring. As it's giant, sun-bright yellow hood opens, a large spike is revealed covered with small … [Read more...]
Salmonberry
This is one of my family's favorite berries in spring. … [Read more...]
Sword Fern
Sword Fern (Polystichum munitum), is widespread throughout the Pacific Northwest. It is an evergreen understory plant that thrives at the base of conifers and is often found mingling with Vine maple, Hazelnut, and Big Leaf maple. This is a really tough plant, that can survive in drought conditions once established, yet can handle the wet weather … [Read more...]