Summary ꙳ Objectives ▹ Vernal pools are unique seasonal wetlands that are mostly precipitation-fed. The term “vernal” relates to ‘spring’, as these pools often appear and fill to capacity with spring rainfalls and snowpack melting. They are short-lived and dry out by early to mid-summer, then they may refill partially in the fall. They support rich and diverse […]
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Tag: Shilpa’s articles
Shilpa’s Wildflower Highlights » Self-he
Shilpa’s Wildflower Highlights » Self-heal The Self-heal (Prunella vulgaris) is a herbaceous perennial plant from the mint family, it looks a lot like mint but it does not have the minty or other aromatic fragrance. The genus name “Prunella” comes from the German word for “quinsy” (a severe sore throat caused by a tonsil abscess […]
Shilpa’s Wildflower Highlights » Buttonb
Shilpa’s Wildflower Highlights » Buttonbush Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) is an obligate wetland species found at the margins of lakes, ponds, swamps, creeks, in moist, poor drainage and standing waters. The genus name came from two Greek words, “cephalo” meaning “head” and “anthos” meaning “flower”. It is a native species to the eastern and southern United […]
Shilpa’s Wildflower Highlights » America
Shilpa’s Wildflower Highlights » American White Waterlily This one is hard to miss, especially as they are spectacular showy flowers with sweet fragrance! American white water lily (Nymphaea odorata) or fragrant water lily is a beautiful aquatic plant, native to most states of the United States. They can be commonly found in ponds, protected areas […]
Shilpa’s Wildflower Highlights » Common
Shilpa’s Wildflower Highlights » Common Milkweed Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) is the most frequently encountered milkweed among 115 known species of the genus Asclepias. It’s a perennial herbaceous plant that can grow 4-6 feet tall. The name “milkweed” comes from the milk-like white secretion (sap) from every part of the plant when broken. It is […]
Mangroves –A Muddy Affair!
Mangroves –A Muddy Affair! Whenever we think of a tropical vacation, we imagine vibrant and colorful coral reefs, or we dream of magnificent sandy beaches. But there is a different kind of ecosystem —a less popular tourist destination for sure, but a true heaven for naturalists. Can you take a guess?… I am talking about […]