The latest issue of Palmetto, the quarterly journal of the Florida Native Plant Society, has an amusing and informative article by Francis Putz, Ph.D., about Cnidoscolus stimulosus, a much-despised plant for Floridians hiking about in sandals. Every part of this plant has protective needles save the well-hidden root, which can be as deep as three [...]
A recent visit to the Silver Glen Springs in the Ocala National Forest, left me wondering once again at the obliviousness of human beings when it comes to our environment—the environment that keeps us alive. The air we breathe, the water we drink, the land on which we build our homes and cities, and the [...]
Bidens spp. are abundant “pest” weeds in Florida and indeed all over the world. There are more than 40 native species in the United States alone and over 230 worldwide. These weedy plants thrive in warm climates and have traditions of medicinal and edible use wherever they are found. The botanical name, [...]
What a lovely walk Max and I had today! A little warm for early April, but there was a pleasant breeze and a clear blue sky. Lots of birds and butterflies. And plenty of snacks. Tasty asparagus tips (the leading ends of Smilax spp), delicious lavender dayflowers (Tradescantia ohiensis), and lemony sour wild sorrel leaves [...]