文章
Miss Chen
2018年03月01日
Description: This is a herbaceous perennial that becomes 2-4' tall when it blooms, often forming tufts of clonal plants. The stems are light green, terete, glandular short-pubescent, and sparsely to moderately covered with spreading hairs. Alternate compound leaves occur primarily toward the base of this plant; they are widely spreading to ascending and odd-pinnate with 3-11 primary leaflets. In addition, these compound leaves also have 1-4 pairs of secondary leaflets that are inserted between the primary leaflets. The terminal primary leaflets are the largest in size (up to 4" long and 2¼" across), while the lateral primary leaflets become gradually smaller in size as they approach the bases of compound leaves. The primary leaflets are elliptic, broadly elliptic, ovate, obovate, or orbicular-ovate in shape, while their margins are coarsely toothed. The upper surfaces of primary leaflets are yellowish green or medium green and glabrous to sparsely appressed-pubescent. The lower surfaces of primary leaflets are light green and glandular short-pubescent; they also have long spreading hairs that are distributed sparsely along the undersides of the major veins.
The secondary leaflets are similar to the primary leaflets, except they are smaller in size (less than ½" in length). The secondary leaflets are lanceolate to ovate in shape and their margins are either toothless (entire) or sparingly toothed. The rachises and petioles of compound leaves are light green, flat or narrowly grooved above, and convex below; they are glandular short-pubescent and sparsely to moderately covered with long spreading hairs. The primary leaflets are either sessile or they have very short petiolules (basal stalklets). At the bases of petioles, there are pairs of leafy stipules that are up to 1" long, half-ovate or ovate in shape, and sparingly toothed. The stems terminate in spike-like racemes of flowers (¾–2¼' long) that are either unbranched or sparingly so. The central stalks of these racemes are light green, terete, and glandular short-pubescent; they are moderately covered with spreading hairs below, sparsely covered with spreading hairs in the middle, and largely devoid of such spreading hairs above.
Each flower is about ¼" across or slightly more, consisting of 5 yellow petals, 5 green sepals, 10-15 stamens, and a burry hypanthium containing a pair of carpels (female reproductive organs). Both the sepals and hypanthium are minutely glandular-pubescent along their outer surfaces; the sepals are cordate-ovate in shape. The pedicels of the flowers are short (less than ¼" in length), light green, and glandular short-pubescent. The blooming period occurs during the summer for about 3 weeks; only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by burry fruits that are obconic with shallow furrows below and ovoid in shape above, tapering abruptly into an acute beak. Around the middle of each fruit, there 3-5 rows of hooked bristles that are slightly descending, widely spreading, or ascending. Mature fruits are 3½–5 mm. long and slightly wider across (including the hooked bristles); they hang downward from their pedicels. Each fruit contains a pair of seeds. The root system is fibrous and rhizomatous.
Cultivation: The preference is partial sun, moist to dry-mesic conditions, and soil containing loam or clay-loam, although other soil types are tolerated. In full sunlight, the foliage becomes yellowish green. Sometimes this plant grows in waterlogged conditions, but this is not preferred. The long spike-like racemes have a tendency to arch or lean to one side as they mature.
Range & Habitat: The native Tall Agrimony is occasional in northern Illinois, uncommon in central Illinois, and rare or absent in the southern section of the state (see Distribution Map). Habitats include upland woodlands, upland savannas, thickets, disturbed open woodlands, woodland borders, areas along woodland paths, soggy meadows, and swamps. Areas with a history of disturbance are preferred, although this species is also found in high quality natural areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract primarily Halictid bees, other small bees, Syrphid flies, and other flies. Robertson (1929) observed a single species of Halictid bee, Lasioglossum versatum, visiting the flowers of an agrimony (probably Agrimonia gryposepala) in Illinois. Other insects feed on the leaves, flowering stems, and developing seeds of agrimony (Agrimonia spp.). These species include aphids (Macrosiphum agrimoniellum, Macrosiphum pallidum), larvae of a gall fly (Contarinia agrimoniae), larvae of a sawfly (Fenella nigrita), and larvae of moths (Anacampsis agrimoniella, Coptotriche agrimoniella); see Blackman & Eastop (2013), Felt (1917), Smith (2006), Covell (1984/2005), and the Microleps website (2010). The burry fruits readily attach to the feathers of birds, fur of mammals, and clothing of humans, by which means their seeds are spread to new locations.
Photographic Location: A soggy meadow at Parkland College in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: Tall Agrimony (Agrimonia gryposepala) can vary somewhat in the number of primary leaflets per compound leaf, and also in the shape of those leaflets. With the exception of Swamp Agrimony (Agrimonia parviflora), species of agrimony (Agrimonia spp.) are very similar to each other in appearance and usually prefer similar habitats. Downy Agrimony (Agrimonia pubescens) can be distinguished by the lack of glandular hairs on its flowering stalks, and similarly for Roadside Agrimony (Agrimonia striata) and Small-fruited Agrimony (Agrimonia microcarpa). While Woodland Agrimony (Agrimonia rostellata) has glandular hairs on its flowering stalks, like Tall Agrimony, it tends to have smaller fruits (typically 3-4 mm. in length) that are differently shaped and less bristly. Swamp Agrimony differs from the preceding species of agrimony by its more abundant primary leaflets (9-17 primary leaflets per compound leaf) and the more narrow shape of those leaflets. It also prefers wetter habitats than Tall Agrimony and the other species of agrimony that occur in Illinois. Another species that is not recorded from Illinois, European Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria), can be distinguished from native species of agrimony by the abundant long hairs on both its flowering stalks and fruits.
The secondary leaflets are similar to the primary leaflets, except they are smaller in size (less than ½" in length). The secondary leaflets are lanceolate to ovate in shape and their margins are either toothless (entire) or sparingly toothed. The rachises and petioles of compound leaves are light green, flat or narrowly grooved above, and convex below; they are glandular short-pubescent and sparsely to moderately covered with long spreading hairs. The primary leaflets are either sessile or they have very short petiolules (basal stalklets). At the bases of petioles, there are pairs of leafy stipules that are up to 1" long, half-ovate or ovate in shape, and sparingly toothed. The stems terminate in spike-like racemes of flowers (¾–2¼' long) that are either unbranched or sparingly so. The central stalks of these racemes are light green, terete, and glandular short-pubescent; they are moderately covered with spreading hairs below, sparsely covered with spreading hairs in the middle, and largely devoid of such spreading hairs above.
Each flower is about ¼" across or slightly more, consisting of 5 yellow petals, 5 green sepals, 10-15 stamens, and a burry hypanthium containing a pair of carpels (female reproductive organs). Both the sepals and hypanthium are minutely glandular-pubescent along their outer surfaces; the sepals are cordate-ovate in shape. The pedicels of the flowers are short (less than ¼" in length), light green, and glandular short-pubescent. The blooming period occurs during the summer for about 3 weeks; only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by burry fruits that are obconic with shallow furrows below and ovoid in shape above, tapering abruptly into an acute beak. Around the middle of each fruit, there 3-5 rows of hooked bristles that are slightly descending, widely spreading, or ascending. Mature fruits are 3½–5 mm. long and slightly wider across (including the hooked bristles); they hang downward from their pedicels. Each fruit contains a pair of seeds. The root system is fibrous and rhizomatous.
Cultivation: The preference is partial sun, moist to dry-mesic conditions, and soil containing loam or clay-loam, although other soil types are tolerated. In full sunlight, the foliage becomes yellowish green. Sometimes this plant grows in waterlogged conditions, but this is not preferred. The long spike-like racemes have a tendency to arch or lean to one side as they mature.
Range & Habitat: The native Tall Agrimony is occasional in northern Illinois, uncommon in central Illinois, and rare or absent in the southern section of the state (see Distribution Map). Habitats include upland woodlands, upland savannas, thickets, disturbed open woodlands, woodland borders, areas along woodland paths, soggy meadows, and swamps. Areas with a history of disturbance are preferred, although this species is also found in high quality natural areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract primarily Halictid bees, other small bees, Syrphid flies, and other flies. Robertson (1929) observed a single species of Halictid bee, Lasioglossum versatum, visiting the flowers of an agrimony (probably Agrimonia gryposepala) in Illinois. Other insects feed on the leaves, flowering stems, and developing seeds of agrimony (Agrimonia spp.). These species include aphids (Macrosiphum agrimoniellum, Macrosiphum pallidum), larvae of a gall fly (Contarinia agrimoniae), larvae of a sawfly (Fenella nigrita), and larvae of moths (Anacampsis agrimoniella, Coptotriche agrimoniella); see Blackman & Eastop (2013), Felt (1917), Smith (2006), Covell (1984/2005), and the Microleps website (2010). The burry fruits readily attach to the feathers of birds, fur of mammals, and clothing of humans, by which means their seeds are spread to new locations.
Photographic Location: A soggy meadow at Parkland College in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: Tall Agrimony (Agrimonia gryposepala) can vary somewhat in the number of primary leaflets per compound leaf, and also in the shape of those leaflets. With the exception of Swamp Agrimony (Agrimonia parviflora), species of agrimony (Agrimonia spp.) are very similar to each other in appearance and usually prefer similar habitats. Downy Agrimony (Agrimonia pubescens) can be distinguished by the lack of glandular hairs on its flowering stalks, and similarly for Roadside Agrimony (Agrimonia striata) and Small-fruited Agrimony (Agrimonia microcarpa). While Woodland Agrimony (Agrimonia rostellata) has glandular hairs on its flowering stalks, like Tall Agrimony, it tends to have smaller fruits (typically 3-4 mm. in length) that are differently shaped and less bristly. Swamp Agrimony differs from the preceding species of agrimony by its more abundant primary leaflets (9-17 primary leaflets per compound leaf) and the more narrow shape of those leaflets. It also prefers wetter habitats than Tall Agrimony and the other species of agrimony that occur in Illinois. Another species that is not recorded from Illinois, European Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria), can be distinguished from native species of agrimony by the abundant long hairs on both its flowering stalks and fruits.
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Miss Chen
2018年02月10日
Description: This somewhat prickly shrub is about ½-3' tall, branching occasionally. It is usually erect, but taller plants sometimes sprawl. The prickles on the woody stems are slender and straight, and pairs of prickles often occur on opposite sides of the stems. On new growth, the hairless stems are either green or pinkish red, later turning brown. The alternate compound leaves usually consist of 5-7 leaflets (oddly pinnate); a few short stems may have only 3 leaflets. The central stem of each compound leaf is slightly hairy. Each ovate leaflet is about 2" long and 1" across, with strongly serrated margins. The underside of each leaflet is glabrous or only sparsely pubescent. At the base of each compound leaf are two prominent stipules, each terminating in a single pointed tip.
The solitary flowers occur on pedicels with glandular hairs, and are about 2½-3" across. The flower buds also have glandular hairs. Each flower consists of 5 pink petals (rarely white), 5 green pointed sepals, numerous bright yellow stamens, and a pistil structure at the center of the flower that is flat and wide. There is a typical rose fragrance. The blooming period occurs during early summer and lasts about a month. Later, bright red rose hips appear that are often slightly flattened when compared to other wild roses, although not always. The root system consists of a deep central taproot that branches occasionally. From shallow rhizomes, this plant can spread vegetatively, forming small colonies.
Cultivation: The preference is full to partial sun, average to dry moisture conditions, and soil that contains loam, clay-loam, or sandy loam. Other kinds of soil are also tolerated. This plant is more resistant to foliar disease than most horticultural roses. It is faster and easier to start plants using cuttings, as seeds are often slow to germinate and develop. Improved germination may result if they are exposed to an acid treatment, simulating passage through an animal's gullet.
Range & Habitat: The native Pasture Rose occurs throughout Illinois, except for a few southern counties (see Distribution Map). It is quite common in many areas. Habitats include mesic to dry black soil prairies, sand prairies, openings in woodlands, oak savannas, limestone glades, sand dunes near lakes, fence rows, abandoned fields, areas along railroads where prairie remnants remain, and waste areas where birds are likely to occur. This plant has considerable resistance to drought, and recovers readily from occasional wildfires.
Faunal Associations: The most important visitors to the flowers are long-tongued bees, such as bumblebees, Anthophorine bees, and Miner bees (e.g., Synhalonia speciosa). Green Metallic bees, Syrphid flies, and various beetles (e.g., Trichiotinus piger) visit the flowers, but they are less effective at pollination. All of these insect seek pollen, as the flowers provide no nectar. The caterpillars of many species of moths feed on this and other wild roses (see Moth Table). Other kinds of insects also feed on this plant, including Rhynchites bicolor (Rose Weevil; eats pith of woody stems, buds, & rose hips), Macrodactylus subspinosus (Rose Chafer Beetle), Edwardsiana rosae (Rose Leafhopper), Mordella spp. (Tumbling Flower Beetles; eat flowers), and Lepyronia gibbosa (Prairie Spittlebug). Several upland gamebirds and small mammals eat the rosehips, including the Greater Prairie Chicken, Ring-Necked Pheasant, Bobwhite, Cottontail Rabbit, Eastern Striped Skunk, and White-Footed Mouse. These animals help to disperse the seeds of the plant across considerable distances. The leaves, buds, and twigs are browsed by the White-Tailed Deer and Elk (once native to Illinois), notwithstanding the presence of occasional prickles.
Photographic Location: Photographs of the flower and compound leaf were taken at the Red Bison Railroad Prairie in Savoy, Illinois, while the photograph of the fruit was taken at a railroad prairie in Iroquois County of the same state.
Comments: Among the native wild roses that occur in Illinois, the Pasture Rose ranks high in its capacity to tolerate hot dry weather (rivaled only by the Sunshine Rose, R. arkansana). Distinguishing different species of roses (whether native or exotic) can be difficult. The Pasture Rose has narrow straight spines on its stems, while other species often have curved stout spines. Its stipules lack comb-like hairs (unlike the Multiflora Rose, Rosa multiflora, and other exotic roses), and the pistil structure is wide and flat, not tall and columnar like many climbing roses. Other features to consider are the number of leaflets per compound leaf, and the relative abundance or absence of hairs on the leaflets.
The solitary flowers occur on pedicels with glandular hairs, and are about 2½-3" across. The flower buds also have glandular hairs. Each flower consists of 5 pink petals (rarely white), 5 green pointed sepals, numerous bright yellow stamens, and a pistil structure at the center of the flower that is flat and wide. There is a typical rose fragrance. The blooming period occurs during early summer and lasts about a month. Later, bright red rose hips appear that are often slightly flattened when compared to other wild roses, although not always. The root system consists of a deep central taproot that branches occasionally. From shallow rhizomes, this plant can spread vegetatively, forming small colonies.
Cultivation: The preference is full to partial sun, average to dry moisture conditions, and soil that contains loam, clay-loam, or sandy loam. Other kinds of soil are also tolerated. This plant is more resistant to foliar disease than most horticultural roses. It is faster and easier to start plants using cuttings, as seeds are often slow to germinate and develop. Improved germination may result if they are exposed to an acid treatment, simulating passage through an animal's gullet.
Range & Habitat: The native Pasture Rose occurs throughout Illinois, except for a few southern counties (see Distribution Map). It is quite common in many areas. Habitats include mesic to dry black soil prairies, sand prairies, openings in woodlands, oak savannas, limestone glades, sand dunes near lakes, fence rows, abandoned fields, areas along railroads where prairie remnants remain, and waste areas where birds are likely to occur. This plant has considerable resistance to drought, and recovers readily from occasional wildfires.
Faunal Associations: The most important visitors to the flowers are long-tongued bees, such as bumblebees, Anthophorine bees, and Miner bees (e.g., Synhalonia speciosa). Green Metallic bees, Syrphid flies, and various beetles (e.g., Trichiotinus piger) visit the flowers, but they are less effective at pollination. All of these insect seek pollen, as the flowers provide no nectar. The caterpillars of many species of moths feed on this and other wild roses (see Moth Table). Other kinds of insects also feed on this plant, including Rhynchites bicolor (Rose Weevil; eats pith of woody stems, buds, & rose hips), Macrodactylus subspinosus (Rose Chafer Beetle), Edwardsiana rosae (Rose Leafhopper), Mordella spp. (Tumbling Flower Beetles; eat flowers), and Lepyronia gibbosa (Prairie Spittlebug). Several upland gamebirds and small mammals eat the rosehips, including the Greater Prairie Chicken, Ring-Necked Pheasant, Bobwhite, Cottontail Rabbit, Eastern Striped Skunk, and White-Footed Mouse. These animals help to disperse the seeds of the plant across considerable distances. The leaves, buds, and twigs are browsed by the White-Tailed Deer and Elk (once native to Illinois), notwithstanding the presence of occasional prickles.
Photographic Location: Photographs of the flower and compound leaf were taken at the Red Bison Railroad Prairie in Savoy, Illinois, while the photograph of the fruit was taken at a railroad prairie in Iroquois County of the same state.
Comments: Among the native wild roses that occur in Illinois, the Pasture Rose ranks high in its capacity to tolerate hot dry weather (rivaled only by the Sunshine Rose, R. arkansana). Distinguishing different species of roses (whether native or exotic) can be difficult. The Pasture Rose has narrow straight spines on its stems, while other species often have curved stout spines. Its stipules lack comb-like hairs (unlike the Multiflora Rose, Rosa multiflora, and other exotic roses), and the pistil structure is wide and flat, not tall and columnar like many climbing roses. Other features to consider are the number of leaflets per compound leaf, and the relative abundance or absence of hairs on the leaflets.
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Miss Chen
2018年02月08日
Description: This plant is a summer annual or biennial that is erect and eventually becomes ¾–2½' tall. Some plants overwinter as a low rosette of leaves, while others complete their growth and development within a single year. After the rosette stage has passed, each plant has a central stem that is unbranched in the lower half, while short ascending branches develop in the upper half. The central and upper stems are whitish green to nearly white from the appressed woolly hairs that cover their surfaces. The alternate leaves are up to 3" long and 1/3" (8 mm.) across, becoming slowly smaller as they ascend the stems. The leaves are linear-oblong, smooth or minutely undulate along their margins, and sessile. The upper surface of each leaf is mostly hairless and dark green to yellowish green, while the lower surface is whitish green and covered with appressed woolly hairs. Each leaf has a prominent central vein.
Compound Corymbs of Flowerheads
Each upper stem terminates in a small corymb of 1-5 flowerheads; they are white to cream-colored. Each flowerhead is about ¼" long and about half as much across; it is conical-oblongoid in shape with a truncate apex. Later, each flowerhead becomes wider and more open as its achenes become mature. The sides of each flowerhead consist of many overlapping bracts that are white or cream-colored; these scale-like bracts are oblong-lanceolate to broadly oblong-lanceolate and they have blunt tips. At the apex of each flowerhead, there are many disk florets that are pale yellow to light brown; the innermost florets are perfect (both staminate and pistillate), while the remaining florets are pistillate. Each tiny floret is narrowly tubular. The blooming period occurs from late summer to early fall and lasts about a month. There is no noticeable floral scent, although the foliage often has a balsam-like fragrance. Each floret is replaced with a small bullet-shaped achene that has a tuft of white hairs at its apex. These hairs can separate from each other individually or in small groups; they are not united at the base. The root system is mostly fibrous. This plant spreads by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and a friable soil containing sand or silt. A little shade is tolerated. The seeds require light to germinate.
Range & Habitat: The native Sweet Everlasting is occasional to locally common throughout Illinois (see Distribution Map). Habitats include upland prairies, sand prairies, typical savannas and sandy savannas, fallow fields, and areas along railroads and roadsides. Disturbed dry areas with scant vegetation are preferred.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers attracts short-tongued bees (mainly Halictid), wasps, and flies primarily. Among the wasps, are such visitors as Eumenid wasps, Crabronid wasps, Paper wasps, Spider wasps, Cuckoo wasps, Weevil wasps, and many others (see Robertson, 1929). The Wild Turkey reportedly eats the foliage. White-Tailed Deer browse on the foliage during the winter.
Photographic Location: At the edge of a field in Vermilion County, Illinois.
Comments: This curious plant has woolly foliage and flowerheads that resemble those of Antennaria spp. (Pussytoes), Anaphalis margaritacea (Pearly Everlasting), Gamochaeta purpurea. (Early Cudweed), and some other members of the Aster family. Sweet Everlasting is more tall than Pussytoes and Early Cudweed, and its truncate-conical flowerheads are more narrow than the button-like flowerheads of Pearly Everlasting. There are other Pseudognaphalium spp. in the United States that are quite similar in appearance to Sweet Everlasting, but they have not been observed in Illinois. However, some of these species have been found in neighboring Indiana and other states further to the east. Sweet Everlasting's older scientific name is Gnaphalium obtusifolium (by which it is still commonly referred), but it has been reassigned to the genus Pseudognaphalium.
Compound Corymbs of Flowerheads
Each upper stem terminates in a small corymb of 1-5 flowerheads; they are white to cream-colored. Each flowerhead is about ¼" long and about half as much across; it is conical-oblongoid in shape with a truncate apex. Later, each flowerhead becomes wider and more open as its achenes become mature. The sides of each flowerhead consist of many overlapping bracts that are white or cream-colored; these scale-like bracts are oblong-lanceolate to broadly oblong-lanceolate and they have blunt tips. At the apex of each flowerhead, there are many disk florets that are pale yellow to light brown; the innermost florets are perfect (both staminate and pistillate), while the remaining florets are pistillate. Each tiny floret is narrowly tubular. The blooming period occurs from late summer to early fall and lasts about a month. There is no noticeable floral scent, although the foliage often has a balsam-like fragrance. Each floret is replaced with a small bullet-shaped achene that has a tuft of white hairs at its apex. These hairs can separate from each other individually or in small groups; they are not united at the base. The root system is mostly fibrous. This plant spreads by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and a friable soil containing sand or silt. A little shade is tolerated. The seeds require light to germinate.
Range & Habitat: The native Sweet Everlasting is occasional to locally common throughout Illinois (see Distribution Map). Habitats include upland prairies, sand prairies, typical savannas and sandy savannas, fallow fields, and areas along railroads and roadsides. Disturbed dry areas with scant vegetation are preferred.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers attracts short-tongued bees (mainly Halictid), wasps, and flies primarily. Among the wasps, are such visitors as Eumenid wasps, Crabronid wasps, Paper wasps, Spider wasps, Cuckoo wasps, Weevil wasps, and many others (see Robertson, 1929). The Wild Turkey reportedly eats the foliage. White-Tailed Deer browse on the foliage during the winter.
Photographic Location: At the edge of a field in Vermilion County, Illinois.
Comments: This curious plant has woolly foliage and flowerheads that resemble those of Antennaria spp. (Pussytoes), Anaphalis margaritacea (Pearly Everlasting), Gamochaeta purpurea. (Early Cudweed), and some other members of the Aster family. Sweet Everlasting is more tall than Pussytoes and Early Cudweed, and its truncate-conical flowerheads are more narrow than the button-like flowerheads of Pearly Everlasting. There are other Pseudognaphalium spp. in the United States that are quite similar in appearance to Sweet Everlasting, but they have not been observed in Illinois. However, some of these species have been found in neighboring Indiana and other states further to the east. Sweet Everlasting's older scientific name is Gnaphalium obtusifolium (by which it is still commonly referred), but it has been reassigned to the genus Pseudognaphalium.
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cclecombe
2018年02月08日
Hello! I’ve been really absent due to our house getting very little light with winter and my plant babies were suffering! I’ve had a massive clear out of anything that’s passed the point of saving and rearranged some of my plants so they’re in the best position for their needs. Now Spring is around the corner, I’m ready to update my app and buy some new plants for the emptier areas of the house. What are your favourite low light plants?
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Miss Chen
2018年01月31日
Description: This plant is an annual about ½–2' long that often sprawls across the ground, or it is weakly ascending (particularly near the tips of its branches). Small plants are usually unbranched, while larger plants produce lateral stems occasionally. Each stem is terete, light green, and more or less hairy. Along each stem, there are alternate leaves up to 4" longFlower & Upper Leaves and 1" across. The leaves are oblong-lanceolate to oblong-oblanceolate and pinnatifid; they are hairy, although less so along their upper surfaces. The middle to upper leaves are sessile, while the lower leaves have short petioles. From the axils of the middle to upper leaves, there develops individual flowers that are sessile. Each flower spans about 1" across when it is fully open, consisting of 4 yellow petals, a narrowly cylindrical calyx (about 2" long) with 4 narrowly triangular lobe-segments at its apex, a narrowly cylindrical ovary/fruit (about 1–1½" long), 8 stamens, and a central united style with cross-shaped stigmata. The flowers bloom at night and become closed during the morning. Even though it appears that each flower has a stalk-like pedicel about 3" long, this is actually the narrowly cylindrical calyx and ovary/fruit of the flower. The lobe-segments of the calyx hang downward. The blooming period occurs from late spring to mid-summer and lasts about 1½–2 months. Only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. After pollination of a flower, the entire calyx becomes pale salmon pink and falls off the fruit. The cylindrical fruit (or developing seed capsule) is straight to slightly curved and ascends upward; it is terete, slightly 4-ribbed, and more or less pubescent along its length. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself; the surfaces of the small seeds are pitted.
Cultivation: The preference is full sunlight, mesic to dry conditions, and sandy soil where the ground vegetation is low and sparse. Most growth and development occurs during the cool weather of spring.
Range & Habitat: Ragged Evening Primrose is occasional throughout Illinois (see Distribution Map), where it is native. Habitats include sand prairies, hill prairies, sandy fields and meadows, areas along railroads, roadsides, and waste areas. Usually this wildflower is found in disturbed sandy habitats, although it is occasionally found in barren gravelly areas. It is somewhat weedy.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are pollinated by Sphinx moths and, to a lesser extent, by bumblebees, honeybees, and other long-tongued bees. Small bees and Syrphid flies may also visit the flowers, where they collect or feed on the pollen, but these latter insects are less effective at cross-pollination. Insects that feed on Ragged Evening Primrose and other Oenothera spp. include several aphids, flea beetles, weevils, moths, and other insects (see the Insect Table for a listing of these species). The Mourning Dove has been observed eating the seeds, while the Cottontail Rabbit and White-Tailed Deer often browse on the foliage.
Photographic Location: A sandy meadow at the Heron Boardwalk in Vermilion County, Illinois. Because the photograph was taken during the early morning, the flower and foliage were still covered with dew; the flower is already beginning to close.
Comments: Because the flowers usually bloom at night, Ragged Evening Primrose is a fairly low and inconspicuous plant. These flowers are very similar in appearance to those of Oenothera biennis (Common Evening Primrose) and other species in this genus. It is primarily the pinnatifid shape of the leaves that sets Ragged Evening Primrose apart; they have conspicuous lateral lobes. The leaf-margins of other Oenothera spp. in Illinois are usually less wavy. Another common name of Oenothera laciniata is Cutleaf Evening Primrose.
Cultivation: The preference is full sunlight, mesic to dry conditions, and sandy soil where the ground vegetation is low and sparse. Most growth and development occurs during the cool weather of spring.
Range & Habitat: Ragged Evening Primrose is occasional throughout Illinois (see Distribution Map), where it is native. Habitats include sand prairies, hill prairies, sandy fields and meadows, areas along railroads, roadsides, and waste areas. Usually this wildflower is found in disturbed sandy habitats, although it is occasionally found in barren gravelly areas. It is somewhat weedy.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are pollinated by Sphinx moths and, to a lesser extent, by bumblebees, honeybees, and other long-tongued bees. Small bees and Syrphid flies may also visit the flowers, where they collect or feed on the pollen, but these latter insects are less effective at cross-pollination. Insects that feed on Ragged Evening Primrose and other Oenothera spp. include several aphids, flea beetles, weevils, moths, and other insects (see the Insect Table for a listing of these species). The Mourning Dove has been observed eating the seeds, while the Cottontail Rabbit and White-Tailed Deer often browse on the foliage.
Photographic Location: A sandy meadow at the Heron Boardwalk in Vermilion County, Illinois. Because the photograph was taken during the early morning, the flower and foliage were still covered with dew; the flower is already beginning to close.
Comments: Because the flowers usually bloom at night, Ragged Evening Primrose is a fairly low and inconspicuous plant. These flowers are very similar in appearance to those of Oenothera biennis (Common Evening Primrose) and other species in this genus. It is primarily the pinnatifid shape of the leaves that sets Ragged Evening Primrose apart; they have conspicuous lateral lobes. The leaf-margins of other Oenothera spp. in Illinois are usually less wavy. Another common name of Oenothera laciniata is Cutleaf Evening Primrose.
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Miss Chen
2018年01月29日
Description: This perennial wildflower is 1-3' tall and unbranched or sparingly so, except for short leafy stems that develop from the axils of the leaves along the central stem. It is usually a short-lived perennial, although some plants may persist for only 1 or 2 years. The central stem is brown to reddish purple, 4-angled, and densely pubescent. The opposite leaves are upFlowers & Bracts to 3½" long and 1" across, medium green, and lanceolate to narrowly lanceolate. The margins of the leaves are usually serrated with low teeth, although some of the upper leaves (and bracts) have smooth margins. The central stem produces two or more dense whorls of flowers in the upper portion of each plant. The uppermost whorl of flowers is terminal, while the lower whorls of flowers develop from the axils of the upper pairs of leaves. Each flower is about ¾–1" long, consisting of a cream-colored corolla with purple spots and a tubular calyx with 5 triangular teeth. The corolla is divided into an upper lip and a lower lip; they are both long and narrow. The upper lip is keeled and finely hairy on the top, while the lower lip terminates into 3 small lobes (the middle lobe is the largest of the three). Inside the corolla near the upper lip, there are 2 long stamens with brown anthers and a slender style with a divided tip. There are also 2 short stamens that are sterile. The tubular calyx is green and finely pubescent. Underneath each whorl of flowers, there are several leafy bracts. The upper surface of each bract is pink, lavender, or nearly white (in whole or part). The lower surface of each bract is light green. Aside from their showy colors and location underneath the flowers, these bracts are very similar to the leaves. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early fall and lasts about 1-2 months. While individual corollas soon wither away, the showy bracts remain attractive for a long time afterward. Each flower is replaced by 4 small nutlets, which are ovoid and smooth. The root system consists of a taproot. This wildflower reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and sandy soil. Spotted Bee Balm has greater tolerance of sun and drought than many other Monarda spp. (Bee Balms). It is usually intolerant of competition from taller plants on moist fertile soil, although it may persist in such areas for several years.
Range & Habitat: The native Spotted Bee Balm is occasional in the northern half of Illinois and the SW section of the state, but it is rare or absent elsewhere (see Distribution Map). Habitats include sand prairies, hill prairies, sandy Black Oak savannas, stabilized sand dunes along Lake Michigan, and sandy fields. This species can be found in both disturbed and higher quality sandy habitats. In Illinois, it is rare in non-sandy areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract honeybees, bumblebees, Miner bees (Melissodes spp.), and Plasterer bees (Colletes spp.); butterflies also visit the flowers of Spotted Bee Balm for nectar, including the endangered Lycaenides melissa samuelis (Karner Blue), which is found in sandy habitats. Insects that feed on the flowers, foliage or stems of Spotted Bee Balm include the caterpillars of the moths Pyrausta orphisalis (Pyralid Moth sp.), Pyrausta signatalis (Pyralid Moth sp.), and Agripodes teratophora (The Gray Marvel); the adults of Strigoderma arboricola (False Japanese Beetle, or Sandhill Chafer); and both nymphs and adults of Cydnoides ciliata (Negro Bug sp.) and Sehirus cinctus (White-Margined Burrower Bug). The oregano-scented foliage is repugnant to mammalian herbivores and rarely consumed by them.
Photographic Location: A small prairie restoration near a drainage ditch in Urbana, Illinois, where this species was introduced.
Comments: Spotted Bee Balm is also called Spotted Horsemint. This species has rather unusual-looking flowers and attractive bracts. It is easily distinguished from most Monarda spp. (Bee Balms) in Illinois by its multiple whorls of flowers on the same stem, cream-colored and purple-spotted corollas, narrow leaves, and pink to lavender bracts. The only similar species that can be found in the state, Monarda citriodora (Lemon Bee Balm; sometimes referred to as Monarda pectinata), is native to the Great Plains and rarely escapes from cultivation. This is an annual species with white to pink corollas that lack spots. The calyx teeth of Lemon Bee Balm are longer and more pointed than those of Spotted Bee Balm, which has simple triangular teeth. Different varieties of Spotted Bee Balm have been described, but they are quite similar to each other, differing primarily by the kind of pubescence to be found on the central stem.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and sandy soil. Spotted Bee Balm has greater tolerance of sun and drought than many other Monarda spp. (Bee Balms). It is usually intolerant of competition from taller plants on moist fertile soil, although it may persist in such areas for several years.
Range & Habitat: The native Spotted Bee Balm is occasional in the northern half of Illinois and the SW section of the state, but it is rare or absent elsewhere (see Distribution Map). Habitats include sand prairies, hill prairies, sandy Black Oak savannas, stabilized sand dunes along Lake Michigan, and sandy fields. This species can be found in both disturbed and higher quality sandy habitats. In Illinois, it is rare in non-sandy areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract honeybees, bumblebees, Miner bees (Melissodes spp.), and Plasterer bees (Colletes spp.); butterflies also visit the flowers of Spotted Bee Balm for nectar, including the endangered Lycaenides melissa samuelis (Karner Blue), which is found in sandy habitats. Insects that feed on the flowers, foliage or stems of Spotted Bee Balm include the caterpillars of the moths Pyrausta orphisalis (Pyralid Moth sp.), Pyrausta signatalis (Pyralid Moth sp.), and Agripodes teratophora (The Gray Marvel); the adults of Strigoderma arboricola (False Japanese Beetle, or Sandhill Chafer); and both nymphs and adults of Cydnoides ciliata (Negro Bug sp.) and Sehirus cinctus (White-Margined Burrower Bug). The oregano-scented foliage is repugnant to mammalian herbivores and rarely consumed by them.
Photographic Location: A small prairie restoration near a drainage ditch in Urbana, Illinois, where this species was introduced.
Comments: Spotted Bee Balm is also called Spotted Horsemint. This species has rather unusual-looking flowers and attractive bracts. It is easily distinguished from most Monarda spp. (Bee Balms) in Illinois by its multiple whorls of flowers on the same stem, cream-colored and purple-spotted corollas, narrow leaves, and pink to lavender bracts. The only similar species that can be found in the state, Monarda citriodora (Lemon Bee Balm; sometimes referred to as Monarda pectinata), is native to the Great Plains and rarely escapes from cultivation. This is an annual species with white to pink corollas that lack spots. The calyx teeth of Lemon Bee Balm are longer and more pointed than those of Spotted Bee Balm, which has simple triangular teeth. Different varieties of Spotted Bee Balm have been described, but they are quite similar to each other, differing primarily by the kind of pubescence to be found on the central stem.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年01月18日
Description: This plant is a spring annual, consisting of a small rosette of leaves up to 6" across and one or more flowering stalks up to 18" tall. Individual plants can bloom while they are a remarkably small size (only 2" across). The basal leaves are up to 3" long and ¾" across. They are light green, oblanceolate, and often pinnatifid with shallow lobes that are pointed at their tips. Their margins are often ciliate, slightly undulate, and sparingly dentate. Each flowering stalk is unbranched and devoid of leaves; it is largely hairless, although there may be a few scattered hairs along its length, especially near the top. Both the basal leaves and flowering stalks contain a white latex.
Each stalk terminates in a flowerhead about ½" across. This flowerhead consists of several spreading ray florets that are truncate with 5 teeth at their tips; these florets are bright golden yellow. The base of each flowerhead consists of 9-18 floral bracts in a single series; these bracts are lanceolate and about ¼" in length. They are erect while the flowerhead is blooming, but eventually become reflexed when the achenes mature. The blooming period occurs from mid-spring to mid-summer and lasts about 2-3 months for a colony of plants. The small achenes are bullet-shaped (tapered at the base, but truncate at the top). Each achene has 5 small scales and a tuft of 5 hairs at its apex; the hairs are longer than the scales. These achenes are distributed by the wind. The root system consists of a tuft of fibrous roots. This plant spreads by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and an acidic sandy soil. Thin rocky soil is also acceptable if it doesn't consist of limestone.
Range & Habitat: The native Dwarf Dandelion occurs occasionally in sandy areas in the northern half of Illinois, otherwise it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include mesic to dry sand prairies, sandy savannas, sand dunes, sandy fields, sandy areas along paths and roadsides, and rocky glades without limestone. Occasional wildfires and other kinds of disturbance are probably beneficial in maintaining populations of this plant.
Faunal Associations: Information about floral-faunal relationships for this species is limited. It seems likely that the flowers are visited by various kinds of bees for nectar and pollen; they may attract butterflies and skippers as well.
Photographic Location: Along a sandy path in a burnt-over savanna in Iroquois County, Illinois.
Comments: Dwarf Dandelion is an adorable little plant that superficially resembles the common lawn weed, Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion). However, the Dwarf Dandelion has smaller flowerheads and light green basal leaves. There are several other Krigia spp. in Illinois; some differ from the Dwarf Dandelion by their flowering stalks, which can be branched with a few cauline leaves. The Dwarf Dandelion has unbranched flowering stalks that are without leaves. A species that doesn't occur in Illinois, Krigia occidentalis (Western Dwarf Dandelion), has the same kind of flowering stalks, but it has only 5-8 floral bracts at the base of each flowerhead. Another useful characteristic to consider are the number of hairs on the achenes: Dwarf Dandelion has only 5 hairs (or bristles) at the apex of each achene, while other Krigia spp. in Illinois have 20 or more hairs on the apex of their achenes. An exception is Krigia caespitosa (Opposite-Leaved Dwarf Dandelion), which has achenes without tufts of hair. Identifying the numerous species in Chicory Tribe of the Aster family can be tricky; most of these species have flowerheads with yellow ray florets and rosettes of basal leaves that appear similar to each other.
Each stalk terminates in a flowerhead about ½" across. This flowerhead consists of several spreading ray florets that are truncate with 5 teeth at their tips; these florets are bright golden yellow. The base of each flowerhead consists of 9-18 floral bracts in a single series; these bracts are lanceolate and about ¼" in length. They are erect while the flowerhead is blooming, but eventually become reflexed when the achenes mature. The blooming period occurs from mid-spring to mid-summer and lasts about 2-3 months for a colony of plants. The small achenes are bullet-shaped (tapered at the base, but truncate at the top). Each achene has 5 small scales and a tuft of 5 hairs at its apex; the hairs are longer than the scales. These achenes are distributed by the wind. The root system consists of a tuft of fibrous roots. This plant spreads by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, mesic to dry conditions, and an acidic sandy soil. Thin rocky soil is also acceptable if it doesn't consist of limestone.
Range & Habitat: The native Dwarf Dandelion occurs occasionally in sandy areas in the northern half of Illinois, otherwise it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include mesic to dry sand prairies, sandy savannas, sand dunes, sandy fields, sandy areas along paths and roadsides, and rocky glades without limestone. Occasional wildfires and other kinds of disturbance are probably beneficial in maintaining populations of this plant.
Faunal Associations: Information about floral-faunal relationships for this species is limited. It seems likely that the flowers are visited by various kinds of bees for nectar and pollen; they may attract butterflies and skippers as well.
Photographic Location: Along a sandy path in a burnt-over savanna in Iroquois County, Illinois.
Comments: Dwarf Dandelion is an adorable little plant that superficially resembles the common lawn weed, Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion). However, the Dwarf Dandelion has smaller flowerheads and light green basal leaves. There are several other Krigia spp. in Illinois; some differ from the Dwarf Dandelion by their flowering stalks, which can be branched with a few cauline leaves. The Dwarf Dandelion has unbranched flowering stalks that are without leaves. A species that doesn't occur in Illinois, Krigia occidentalis (Western Dwarf Dandelion), has the same kind of flowering stalks, but it has only 5-8 floral bracts at the base of each flowerhead. Another useful characteristic to consider are the number of hairs on the achenes: Dwarf Dandelion has only 5 hairs (or bristles) at the apex of each achene, while other Krigia spp. in Illinois have 20 or more hairs on the apex of their achenes. An exception is Krigia caespitosa (Opposite-Leaved Dwarf Dandelion), which has achenes without tufts of hair. Identifying the numerous species in Chicory Tribe of the Aster family can be tricky; most of these species have flowerheads with yellow ray florets and rosettes of basal leaves that appear similar to each other.
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求助
BeautifullyMad
2018年01月11日
Woke up this morning and my little green guy was like this in his pot. i dont know what happened but it keeps reoccurring in my plants /succulents. can someone please tell me whats going on?
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Ueca：This is rot, and results from the soil being kept too moist. Either water in longer intervals or get faster draining soil.
文章
Miss Chen
2018年01月10日
Description: This perennial plant is 3-12' tall. Plants in dense colonies are only 3-5' tall, but 'lone wolf' plants can achieve considerable height. The stout central stem is glabrous, glaucous, terete (circular in cross-section), and often reddish or reddish-purple in color. There is very little branching, except for some flowering stems that occur along the upper half of the plant. The leaves are up to 8" long and 2½" across, lanceolate-oblong, and either smooth (entire) or slightly to strongly serrate along their margins. The upper leaf surface is medium to dark green with a sandpapery texture that derives from the presence of minute stiff hairs. The lower leaf surface is pale green and softly hairy. The leaves are often slightly recurved, and they have a tendency to fold upward along their central veins, particularly during hot dry weather. The leaves are opposite below, but they become either alternate or opposite along the upper half of the plant. The leaves taper gradually into slender petioles that are about ½" in length.
The upper stems terminate into either individual or small clusters of flowerheads. Each flowerhead is 2½-4" across, consisting of 10-20 ray florets that surround numerous disk florets. The tiny corollas of the disk florets are tubular-shaped and yellow, while the petaloid rays along the circumference of the flowerhead are bright yellow and oblong in shape. Around the base of each flowerhead, there are floral bracts (phyllaries) that are arranged in several overlapping series. These bracts are light green and linear-lanceolate in shape, becoming slightly recurved when the flowerhead blooms. On a large plant, it is not uncommon for several flowerheads to be bloom at the same time. The blooming period occurs from late summer to fall, lasting about 1-2 months. The disk florets are replaced by achenes about 3-4 mm. in length that are oblongoid and somewhat flattened in shape. The root system is fibrous and rhizomatous, often forming clonal colonies of variable size.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, moist soil, and fertile loamy soil with high organic content. However, this robust plant will tolerated other kinds of soil. Powdery mildew may affect the leaves, but this typically occurs during the fall after the blooming period. Strong wind can cause this plant to blow over in exposed situations. It also requires lots of room because of its large (sometimes huge) size and aggressive tendencies.
Range & Habitat: The native Sawtooth Sunflower occurs throughout most of Illinois, except for a few SE counties (see Distribution Map). It is a common plant. Habitats include moist to mesic black soil prairies, thickets, moist meadows near rivers or lakes, Bur Oak savannas, bases of bluffs, fence rows, and areas along ditches, railroads, and roadsides. Sawtooth Sunflower thrives in both disturbed and high quality sites, sometimes forming large colonies that exclude other plants.
Faunal Associations: The most common visitors to the flowers are bees, especially long-tongued species. Among these are honeybees, bumblebees, Cuckoo bees (Epeolus spp., Triepeolus spp.), digger bees (Melissodes spp.), and leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.). Other insect visitors include Syrphid flies, bee flies, butterflies, moths, and beetles. Both nectar and pollen are available as floral rewards. Other insects feed on the foliage, plant juices, pith of stems, developing seeds, etc., of sunflowers. These insect feeders include caterpillars of the butterflies Chlosyne nycteis (Silvery Checkerspot) and Chlosyne gorgone (Gorgone Checkerspot), stem-boring caterpillars of Papaipema necopina (Sunflower Borer Moth) and Papaipema rigida (Rigid Sunflower Borer Moth), seed-eating caterpillars of the moths Homoeosoma electella (Sunflower Moth) and Stibadium spumosum (Frothy Moth), foliage-eating caterpillars of Grammia arge (Arge Tiger Moth) and Phragmatobia fuliginosa (Ruby Tiger Moth), and many other Lepidoptera (see Lepidoptera Table for a more complete listing of these species).
Other insect feeders of sunflowers include the stem-boring larvae of Apion occidentale (Black Sunflower Weevil) and Cylindrocopturus adspersus (Sunflower Stem Weevil), Physonota helianthi (Sunflower Tortoise Beetle) and Systena blanda (Pale-Striped Flea Beetle), larvae of the flies Neotephritis finalis (Sunflower Seed Maggot) and Strauzia longipennis (Sunflower Maggot), Hesperotettix viridis (Meadow Purple-Striped Grasshopper) and Melanoplus femurrubrum (Red-Legged Grasshopper), Aphis helianthi (Sunflower Aphid) and Uroleucon ambrosiae (Brown Ambrosia Aphid), Clastoptera xanthocephala (Sunflower Spittlebug), and many other insects (see Insect Table for a more complete listing of these species). The seeds of sunflowers are a favorite food of such upland gamebirds and songbirds as the Ring-Necked Pheasant, Bobwhite Quail, Mourning Dove, Redwing Blackbird, Eastern Goldfinch, Lark Sparrow, and Savannah Sparrow. Such rodents as the Franklin Ground Squirrel, Prairie Vole, and Meadow Vole also eat the seeds. These animals probably help to spread the seeds into new areas. When the Sawtooth Sunflower and other sunflowers are located near bodies of water, beavers and muskrats sometimes use their stems to construct dams or lodges. Deer, cattle, and other hoofed mammalian herbivores occasionally browse on the foliage of larger sunflower plants, while groundhogs and rabbits are more likely to attack smaller plants.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at the Red Bison Railroad Prairie in Savoy, Illinois, and Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Notwithstanding its name, the Sawtooth Sunflower often has leaves that are toothless or only slightly serrated. There is considerable variation in the size of plants across different locations, and the leaves are somewhat variable in their size and shape. This sunflower can be distinguished from other Helianthus spp. (sunflowers) by its smooth reddish stems, which often have a powdery white bloom that can rubbed off (i.e., they are glabrous and glaucous). The lower stems on large older plants can become slightly woody in appearance. The Sawtooth Sunflower is similar in size and appearance to Helianthus giganteus (Giant Sunflower), but this latter species has hairy stems and it is usually found in habitats that are more moist and sandy.
The upper stems terminate into either individual or small clusters of flowerheads. Each flowerhead is 2½-4" across, consisting of 10-20 ray florets that surround numerous disk florets. The tiny corollas of the disk florets are tubular-shaped and yellow, while the petaloid rays along the circumference of the flowerhead are bright yellow and oblong in shape. Around the base of each flowerhead, there are floral bracts (phyllaries) that are arranged in several overlapping series. These bracts are light green and linear-lanceolate in shape, becoming slightly recurved when the flowerhead blooms. On a large plant, it is not uncommon for several flowerheads to be bloom at the same time. The blooming period occurs from late summer to fall, lasting about 1-2 months. The disk florets are replaced by achenes about 3-4 mm. in length that are oblongoid and somewhat flattened in shape. The root system is fibrous and rhizomatous, often forming clonal colonies of variable size.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, moist soil, and fertile loamy soil with high organic content. However, this robust plant will tolerated other kinds of soil. Powdery mildew may affect the leaves, but this typically occurs during the fall after the blooming period. Strong wind can cause this plant to blow over in exposed situations. It also requires lots of room because of its large (sometimes huge) size and aggressive tendencies.
Range & Habitat: The native Sawtooth Sunflower occurs throughout most of Illinois, except for a few SE counties (see Distribution Map). It is a common plant. Habitats include moist to mesic black soil prairies, thickets, moist meadows near rivers or lakes, Bur Oak savannas, bases of bluffs, fence rows, and areas along ditches, railroads, and roadsides. Sawtooth Sunflower thrives in both disturbed and high quality sites, sometimes forming large colonies that exclude other plants.
Faunal Associations: The most common visitors to the flowers are bees, especially long-tongued species. Among these are honeybees, bumblebees, Cuckoo bees (Epeolus spp., Triepeolus spp.), digger bees (Melissodes spp.), and leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.). Other insect visitors include Syrphid flies, bee flies, butterflies, moths, and beetles. Both nectar and pollen are available as floral rewards. Other insects feed on the foliage, plant juices, pith of stems, developing seeds, etc., of sunflowers. These insect feeders include caterpillars of the butterflies Chlosyne nycteis (Silvery Checkerspot) and Chlosyne gorgone (Gorgone Checkerspot), stem-boring caterpillars of Papaipema necopina (Sunflower Borer Moth) and Papaipema rigida (Rigid Sunflower Borer Moth), seed-eating caterpillars of the moths Homoeosoma electella (Sunflower Moth) and Stibadium spumosum (Frothy Moth), foliage-eating caterpillars of Grammia arge (Arge Tiger Moth) and Phragmatobia fuliginosa (Ruby Tiger Moth), and many other Lepidoptera (see Lepidoptera Table for a more complete listing of these species).
Other insect feeders of sunflowers include the stem-boring larvae of Apion occidentale (Black Sunflower Weevil) and Cylindrocopturus adspersus (Sunflower Stem Weevil), Physonota helianthi (Sunflower Tortoise Beetle) and Systena blanda (Pale-Striped Flea Beetle), larvae of the flies Neotephritis finalis (Sunflower Seed Maggot) and Strauzia longipennis (Sunflower Maggot), Hesperotettix viridis (Meadow Purple-Striped Grasshopper) and Melanoplus femurrubrum (Red-Legged Grasshopper), Aphis helianthi (Sunflower Aphid) and Uroleucon ambrosiae (Brown Ambrosia Aphid), Clastoptera xanthocephala (Sunflower Spittlebug), and many other insects (see Insect Table for a more complete listing of these species). The seeds of sunflowers are a favorite food of such upland gamebirds and songbirds as the Ring-Necked Pheasant, Bobwhite Quail, Mourning Dove, Redwing Blackbird, Eastern Goldfinch, Lark Sparrow, and Savannah Sparrow. Such rodents as the Franklin Ground Squirrel, Prairie Vole, and Meadow Vole also eat the seeds. These animals probably help to spread the seeds into new areas. When the Sawtooth Sunflower and other sunflowers are located near bodies of water, beavers and muskrats sometimes use their stems to construct dams or lodges. Deer, cattle, and other hoofed mammalian herbivores occasionally browse on the foliage of larger sunflower plants, while groundhogs and rabbits are more likely to attack smaller plants.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at the Red Bison Railroad Prairie in Savoy, Illinois, and Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Notwithstanding its name, the Sawtooth Sunflower often has leaves that are toothless or only slightly serrated. There is considerable variation in the size of plants across different locations, and the leaves are somewhat variable in their size and shape. This sunflower can be distinguished from other Helianthus spp. (sunflowers) by its smooth reddish stems, which often have a powdery white bloom that can rubbed off (i.e., they are glabrous and glaucous). The lower stems on large older plants can become slightly woody in appearance. The Sawtooth Sunflower is similar in size and appearance to Helianthus giganteus (Giant Sunflower), but this latter species has hairy stems and it is usually found in habitats that are more moist and sandy.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年01月09日
What you do with paperwhites (Narcissus tazetta ssp. papyraceus) after they bloom is largely a function of what you do with them before they bloom. Paperwhites are bulb plants that are hardy outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11 but also are used for forcing indoors during winter. The outdoor plants stay outdoors after they finishing flowering to bloom the next year while spent indoor paperwhites either are tossed in the garbage or planted outside. Their flowers' pure-white coronas and petals distinguish paperwhites from their relatives.
In the Garden
If you plant paperwhite bulbs in your garden one year -- September through December, they should produce their pale flowers for many springs to come. Paperwhites need only well-drained soil and a sunny site to thrive and even naturalize. Plant the bulbs so that their pointed tops are 3 inches below the soil surface, spacing four bulbs per 1 square foot.
Don't cut back the foliage after the flowers fade; wait until the leaves have withered to allow the plants to restock their food supply. At that point, cut the foliage to the ground, and wait for next year's floral display.
Forcing in Winter
The term "forcing bulbs" may sound harsh, but it simply means tricking bulbs into blooming when it is not their normal time to bloom. Most bulbs require a period of refrigeration to bloom in winter, but paperwhites do not. Plant them close together, pointy ends up, in soil, stones or sea glass, with the top one-half of each bulb sticking out of the material. Keep the soil moist, or, if you use stones or shells, maintain a water level up to 3/4 inch from the top of that material. The flowers should bloom in about one month.
Indoors
If you force your paperwhite bulbs one year, don't try the same trick the following winter; it usually won't work because the bulbs have not been able to replenish their energy. Many people toss out forced paperwhite bulbs when the blooms are off the plants, but an option is to transplant the bulbs, yellowing foliage and all, into a sunny garden site. If you forced the bulbs in material such as stones or shells, then the bulbs may take two years to restock their reserves and flower again.
Origin of Genus Name
In Greek mythology, Narcissus was the beautiful youth who spent his life admiring his own reflection in a pool of water; after death, a flower of astonishing beauty grew in his place. It is from this legend that paperwhites get their genus name, and paperwhites often attract attention whether they bloom in pots indoors or in fields of white in a garden.
In the Garden
If you plant paperwhite bulbs in your garden one year -- September through December, they should produce their pale flowers for many springs to come. Paperwhites need only well-drained soil and a sunny site to thrive and even naturalize. Plant the bulbs so that their pointed tops are 3 inches below the soil surface, spacing four bulbs per 1 square foot.
Don't cut back the foliage after the flowers fade; wait until the leaves have withered to allow the plants to restock their food supply. At that point, cut the foliage to the ground, and wait for next year's floral display.
Forcing in Winter
The term "forcing bulbs" may sound harsh, but it simply means tricking bulbs into blooming when it is not their normal time to bloom. Most bulbs require a period of refrigeration to bloom in winter, but paperwhites do not. Plant them close together, pointy ends up, in soil, stones or sea glass, with the top one-half of each bulb sticking out of the material. Keep the soil moist, or, if you use stones or shells, maintain a water level up to 3/4 inch from the top of that material. The flowers should bloom in about one month.
Indoors
If you force your paperwhite bulbs one year, don't try the same trick the following winter; it usually won't work because the bulbs have not been able to replenish their energy. Many people toss out forced paperwhite bulbs when the blooms are off the plants, but an option is to transplant the bulbs, yellowing foliage and all, into a sunny garden site. If you forced the bulbs in material such as stones or shells, then the bulbs may take two years to restock their reserves and flower again.
Origin of Genus Name
In Greek mythology, Narcissus was the beautiful youth who spent his life admiring his own reflection in a pool of water; after death, a flower of astonishing beauty grew in his place. It is from this legend that paperwhites get their genus name, and paperwhites often attract attention whether they bloom in pots indoors or in fields of white in a garden.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年01月08日
Add elephant ears -- those large-leaved plants grown from roots the size of softballs, or larger -- to create a tropical flair to home landscapes. Elephant ears are tender perennials, hardy only in the warmest parts of the United States. In areas with colder winters, the plants must be lifted in the fall or replanted every year.
Three genera of plants go by the common name elephant ears: Colocasia, Alocasia and Xanthosoma. The plants are similar in appearance, with large, heart-shaped leaves that grow up to 4 feet or more in length. Of the three types of elephant ears, Colocasia and Alocasia are the most cold hardy, surviving winter temperatures of 15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit -- in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant Zone 8b. Colocasia is the most commonly found type of elephant ears, since breeders have worked on the species C. esculenta to produce many colorful leaf variations. All three plants have poisonous calcium oxalate crystals in the leaves, stems and roots, so use gloves when handling the plants. Taro is a type of edible elephant ear, but it must be properly prepared before being consumed.
Growing Elephant Ears
In the home landscape, elephant ears do best when planted in partial shade in moist soil. They look best when planted in the back of borders, in large containers or around ponds. Plant them directly outdoors after all danger of frost has passed, or start them indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost date. Cover the roots with 2 to 3 inches of soil and give them plenty of room to spread out. Elephant ears are heavy feeders and need frequent fertilization with either a general purpose fertilizer or a plant food formulated for foliage house plants. The soil around the roots needs to be kept moist, so regular watering is essential, especially for container-grown specimens. Division is best performed in the spring.
Overwintering Elephant Ears
To save elephant ear roots from year to year, cut the foliage back after the first frost, leaving 2 to 4 inches of stem, and carefully dig up the roots. Put the roots in a protected, well-ventilated spot until they're dry to the touch, then store them in vermiculite, packing peanuts or shredded paper. Don't use sand or moss as these materials hold moisture and encourage the roots to sprout prematurely. Keep the roots in a cool, dark location that remains frost-free, such as a crawlspace or basement. Discard any bulbs with soft spots or mold. Plump up shriveled bulbs by spraying them with water a day or two before replanting them in the spring.
Cultivars
Besides the plain green forms, several newer cultivars of elephant ears are available. "Black Magic" grows 3 to 5 feet tall with burgundy-black foliage, while the similarly-sized "Black Stem" has green leaves with burgundy-black veins. "Illustris" is a small elephant ear; its green foliage has black markings and lime green leaf margins and veins. "Lime Zinger" grows 5 to 6 feet tall with bright chartreuse-green foliage.
Three genera of plants go by the common name elephant ears: Colocasia, Alocasia and Xanthosoma. The plants are similar in appearance, with large, heart-shaped leaves that grow up to 4 feet or more in length. Of the three types of elephant ears, Colocasia and Alocasia are the most cold hardy, surviving winter temperatures of 15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit -- in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant Zone 8b. Colocasia is the most commonly found type of elephant ears, since breeders have worked on the species C. esculenta to produce many colorful leaf variations. All three plants have poisonous calcium oxalate crystals in the leaves, stems and roots, so use gloves when handling the plants. Taro is a type of edible elephant ear, but it must be properly prepared before being consumed.
Growing Elephant Ears
In the home landscape, elephant ears do best when planted in partial shade in moist soil. They look best when planted in the back of borders, in large containers or around ponds. Plant them directly outdoors after all danger of frost has passed, or start them indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost date. Cover the roots with 2 to 3 inches of soil and give them plenty of room to spread out. Elephant ears are heavy feeders and need frequent fertilization with either a general purpose fertilizer or a plant food formulated for foliage house plants. The soil around the roots needs to be kept moist, so regular watering is essential, especially for container-grown specimens. Division is best performed in the spring.
Overwintering Elephant Ears
To save elephant ear roots from year to year, cut the foliage back after the first frost, leaving 2 to 4 inches of stem, and carefully dig up the roots. Put the roots in a protected, well-ventilated spot until they're dry to the touch, then store them in vermiculite, packing peanuts or shredded paper. Don't use sand or moss as these materials hold moisture and encourage the roots to sprout prematurely. Keep the roots in a cool, dark location that remains frost-free, such as a crawlspace or basement. Discard any bulbs with soft spots or mold. Plump up shriveled bulbs by spraying them with water a day or two before replanting them in the spring.
Cultivars
Besides the plain green forms, several newer cultivars of elephant ears are available. "Black Magic" grows 3 to 5 feet tall with burgundy-black foliage, while the similarly-sized "Black Stem" has green leaves with burgundy-black veins. "Illustris" is a small elephant ear; its green foliage has black markings and lime green leaf margins and veins. "Lime Zinger" grows 5 to 6 feet tall with bright chartreuse-green foliage.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年01月07日
Potted hyacinths are sold as seasonal flowering plants. You can make the flowers bloom earlier in the season than they do naturally, usually in late winter or early spring. The bulbs grow and bloom inside the home after they are forced. The potted hyacinths rarely bloom a second time in the pot, but you can replant them outdoors and they may bloom again the next year. Caring for the potted hyacinth properly during the flowering period helps prolong the life of the blossoms.
Step 1
Set the hyacinth pot in an area that receives bright sunlight until the bulbs begin to flower. Keep the pot in an area with a temperature near 60 degrees F for best growth.
Step 2
Water the bulbs when the top half inch of soil feels dry. Hyacinth are sometimes grown in pebbles and water instead of soil. Water these bulbs as needed so the water level remains just below the bottom of the bulb.
Step 3
Move the hyacinth pot to an area that receives bright but indirect sunlight once the flower blossoms begin to open. Direct sunlight during flowering may cause the blooms to wilt prematurely.
Step 4
Fertilize the bulbs with a soluble balanced fertilizer after the blooms begin to fade if you want to replant them outdoors. Only potted hyacinths in soil replant well - pebble-grown bulbs should be discarded. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks at half the recommended monthly dosage on the label.
Step 5
Cut off the flower stalks after the blossoms fade but leave the foliage in place. Move the plants back into direct sunlight and continue to water and fertilize them until the foliage dies back naturally.
Step 6
Cut the foliage off the bulbs to within 1 inch of the top of the bulb. Plant the bulbs outdoors in a sunny, well-drained bed, spacing them 2 to 3 inches apart in all directions. It may take up to two years before the hyacinths flower again.
Step 1
Set the hyacinth pot in an area that receives bright sunlight until the bulbs begin to flower. Keep the pot in an area with a temperature near 60 degrees F for best growth.
Step 2
Water the bulbs when the top half inch of soil feels dry. Hyacinth are sometimes grown in pebbles and water instead of soil. Water these bulbs as needed so the water level remains just below the bottom of the bulb.
Step 3
Move the hyacinth pot to an area that receives bright but indirect sunlight once the flower blossoms begin to open. Direct sunlight during flowering may cause the blooms to wilt prematurely.
Step 4
Fertilize the bulbs with a soluble balanced fertilizer after the blooms begin to fade if you want to replant them outdoors. Only potted hyacinths in soil replant well - pebble-grown bulbs should be discarded. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks at half the recommended monthly dosage on the label.
Step 5
Cut off the flower stalks after the blossoms fade but leave the foliage in place. Move the plants back into direct sunlight and continue to water and fertilize them until the foliage dies back naturally.
Step 6
Cut the foliage off the bulbs to within 1 inch of the top of the bulb. Plant the bulbs outdoors in a sunny, well-drained bed, spacing them 2 to 3 inches apart in all directions. It may take up to two years before the hyacinths flower again.
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