Page Two

This is a species of knapweed (Centaura genus), which is considered a toxic weed in Montana. If you own property that has this weed on it, you're supposed to eradicate it. I'm not sure how that's done as it's a damned persistent plant. It has interesting flowers, though.

Developing cones on lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta). The trunks of these trees were used in the past when constructing teepees and lodges, hence the name.

This is low Oregon grape (Mahonia repens). I understand the berries of this plant are quite bitter. The leaves also change color, becoming red or purple.

This is indian paintbrush (Castilleja genus). I've mostly seen orangey-red or scarlet blooms, but they also come in shades of yellow, pink and white.

Mushrooms are neat. I like mushrooms. And let us have no snide remarks about their phallic symbolism, thank you very much.

I'm often drawn to the contrast between rocks and plants. It just speaks to me somehow, though I'm not sure what it's saying. If I figure it out, I'll let you know.

I believe this is western serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia), also known as Saskatoon, Juneberry, and shadbush.

More contrasts that appeal to me. I wonder about stumps; why were the trees cut down? When? By whom? They're a tangible remnant of something long past, and it makes me a little sad.

The common name for these flowers is sticky shooting star - try saying it fast several times if you want to feel clumsy. Otherwise known as Dodecatheon pulchellum; literal translation, "plants protected by the gods." So says one of my guide books, but not why it was named that. If anyone knows, please tell me.

I have no idea exactly what this flower is, besides lovely. Some sort of orchid, perhaps? The picture was taken in Florida years ago. If you can identify it, please let me know.

These are violets (Viola genus), I don't know the species offhand. They grow all over in the woods, but they're down low and often hidden behind other, taller plants. Finding a cluster of them peeking out from their shadowy niches is a pleasant treat.

These are wildflowers I am unable to identify from the photos. I probably knew what they were when I took the pictures, but I don't remember now. They're pretty just the same.

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These are broadpetal strawberry blossoms (Fragaria virginiana). They grow wild all over the woods and in backyards. The fruits are said to be very sweet, but the birds and wild animals get at them so fast I've never managed to find any.

All photos are � 2003-2007 to M. Anderson

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