Published by Daniel Mosquin on January 11, 2019
Alpine shooting-star, or Primula tetrandra (syn. Dodecatheon alpinum), is a perennial species native to moist montane environments of western USA (up to 3500m (11500 ft.). This makes it an associate of the coniferous forests typical of these montane regions, although it is far more likely to be spotted along streams and shallow rivulets with exposure […]
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Published by Daniel Mosquin on February 28, 2018
Fragrant fritillary is endemic to the San Francisco Bay region of California, preferring “open hilly grasslands at altitudes less than 200 meters (650 ft.) in elevation”. It is perhaps unsurprising that its preferred habitat conflicts with urban development pressures and agriculture; as such, it has been proposed as a candidate for listing as a federally-endangered […]
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Published by Daniel Mosquin on August 8, 2017
Berberis aquifolium (formerly Mahonia aquifolium) is among the tallest of an informal subgroup within Berberis known commonly as the Oregon grapes (note: not actually grapes). This upright-growing species can sometimes exceed 4.5m (15 ft.) in height, and hence Berberis aquifolium is commonly known as tall Oregon grape or tall mahonia.
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Published by Daniel Mosquin on April 14, 2017
In the USDA’s Plant Profile map for Cerastium arvense, it shows the species occurring across North America and as both native and introduced in most states, provinces, and territories. Why?
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Published by Daniel Mosquin on July 30, 2015
I have always thought of the evening primroses as particularly romantic plants. Many of the Oenothera have richly-scented blooms that open in twilight. Their light-coloured petals make them gleam in the dusk light like rising moons. John Rusk’s photo captures the romance of Hooker’s evening primrose perfectly!
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Published by Daniel Mosquin on June 5, 2015
Anemopsis californica is a member of the Saururaceae, or lizard’s-tail family, which contains only seven species in four genera. I have looked and looked and am unable to find a reference for why this family would have such an interesting common name. If anyone knows, please post a comment below!
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