Friday, September 25, 2009

Chicory, Cichorium intybus

Originally from Europe, Chicory root can be baked and ground and used as a coffee substitute.

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Fairyslipper, Calypso bulbosa

This attractive, fragrant lily was found growing on Kamiak Butte in Eastern Washington.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Pacific Giant Salamander, Dicamptodon tenebrosus

I was walking along the creek next to our house looking for wildflowers to photograph and came across this 13" long salamander:
I only see one about once every 5 years and don't know if it is due to their coloring being so similar to the rocks or that they are rare. After I took the first picture he walked/swam through shallow water and I took a second picture:

The salamander was using his front legs to walk on the bottom and his hind legs as flippers to paddle through the water.




Monday, September 7, 2009

Wild Strawberry, Fragaria vesca

Small, tasty, bright red strawberries are the main attraction on this native perennial.