Category Archives: Flora

Springtime

Non-winter seasons at this latitude are crammed into a much shorter length of time than in the Lower-48.  Spring comes late and flowers rush to complete the bloom/seed cycle.  Early wildflowers are reaching their peak in Southcentral Alaska, like these … Continue reading

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Wildflowers

The blooming of summer continues in full swing with wild geraniums at their peak, along with larkspur, chiming bells, and many others.  Fireweed has begun to add its bright magenta hue as well.  It’s all part of the rush to … Continue reading

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The Colors of Spring

One of the most ubiquitous signs of spring in Southcentral Alaska is the blooming of wild roses. These delightful pink blossoms seems to show up everywhere. There are two species—prickly roses and Nootka roses—the former being the most common. Both … Continue reading

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Dandelions

Most people see dandelions as just a tenacious invasive weed, a major pest to be eradicated as quickly as possible in any and all environments.  I have a slightly different view.  While I don’t want them crowding out other plants … Continue reading

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More Evidence of Spring

More evidence of an exceptionally early spring here in Southcentral Alaska.  These bright new Northern Red Currant leaves accompanied by blossoms usually show weeks later.  Birch, cottonwood, alder, and many other trees and shrubs are bursting with new leaves as … Continue reading

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Early Signs of Spring

Pussy willows are always among the first signs of emerging plant life toward the end of winter in Southcentral Alaska, but this year’s exceedingly mild season seems to have accelerated the process.  These catkins along Turnagain Arm in mid-February are but a few among … Continue reading

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Berry Shortage

Usually in December there is an abundance of mountain ash berries hanging from trees all around the Anchorage area, but not this year; for some unknown reason there are practically none.  That will make slim pickings for the Bohemian Waxwings … Continue reading

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Colors of Autumn

Fall colors in Southcentral Alaska often don’t last long.  Predominantly yellow with some orange and crimson hues, the challenge is always the weather.  Mid-September is peak time for color, and is also often when storms roll through with rain and … Continue reading

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Wildflowers

Lots of local blooms now in Southcentral Alaska with spring in full swing.  These bright shooting stars are just some of many varieties adding to the show.

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Dandelions

I’m chided now and then for being appreciative of the happy faces of invasive dandelions.  Yes, they’re a nuisance, and they crowd out native plants, but I can’t help admiring their tenacity and bright displays.  They are usually the very … Continue reading

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