Sassafras Leaves
Sassafras, Sassafras albidum I’m seeing more early fall color in small trees like this Sassafras. At the PGT you are most likely to find Sassafras trees growing in small clusters … Continued
Pokeweed Berries
Pokeweed, Phytolacca americana This native plant doesn’t get the respect it deserves; it should be used more in gardens. It’s very colorful and not like any other plant I can … Continued
Orange Sulphur Butterfly
Orange Sulphur Butterfly, Colias eurytheme I’ve been seeing a lot of butterflies feeding on New England Asters this week. I’ve been seeing one or two Monarchs every day and they … Continued
Sycamore Bark
Sycamore, Platanus occidentalis Sycamores are the biggest trees we have at the PGT. The best place to see them is along the banks of Hillers Creek. As Sycamores grow, they … Continued
Burr Oak Acorns
Burr Oak, Quercus macrocarpa Walking through one of our tree plantings at the PGT this week, I noticed the acorns on the Burr Oaks. The acorns are huge and have … Continued
Smooth Sumac
Smooth Sumac, Rhus glabra Fall just started, but it will be 3 or 4 weeks before there’s good color in the woods. However, pockets of good color can be found … Continued
Painted Lady
Painted Lady, Vanessa cardui I’m seeing a lot of Painted Lady butterflies this week. I’m also seeing more Monarchs. We saw 5 Monarchs on our picnic lunch today at the … Continued
Honey Bee
Honey Bee feeding on a New England Aster Finally the New England Asters are blooming. Many insects get nectar from this wildflower, including Monarch butterflies and bees.