The mistletoe is very noticeable right now. Our cedar elms (Ulmus crassifolia) have lost all their leaves, so what remains green is the mistletoe. I think the mistletoe is in the live oaks (Quercus virginiana) too, but it’s much harder to see … Continue reading →
I noticed the large oak tree because of the shelf fungi along its trunk. The tree had died and fallen over a long time ago and the fungi had moved in. They are a type of bracket fungi and are important in … Continue reading →
I spotted the broken oak branch lying in front of me. Not an uncommon sight on my hikes, but this branch was different. The break was fairly clean and flat, but I don’t think it had been cut. It looked … Continue reading →
I spent a recent morning outside and was reminded of the beauty of a winter calm. I find that each season has something to teach me and winter did its job well. I know it’s not officially winter yet and … Continue reading →
One of the native plants we have in abundance is frost weed (Verbesina virginica). It grows in the shade or understory of our wooded areas. In the fall, it has small white flowers and attracts butterflies. Frost weed doesn’t normally have … Continue reading →