Wildflowers & Weeds Archives

Category: Wildflowers & Weeds

The Wildflowers and Weeds category explores Midwest wild plants found in fields, forests, wetlands, and along quiet country roads. These plants grow naturally in prairies, marshes, bogs, and woodland edges throughout Wisconsin and surrounding states.

Each post focuses on identification, habitat, bloom timing, and seasonal changes. Learn how wildflowers and so-called weeds support pollinators, provide wildlife habitat, and shape local ecosystems.

This space highlights native species, common roadside plants, and overlooked wild growth that plays an important role in nature.

Note: I do not provide medical advice. Any mention of historical plant uses is shared for educational purposes only and reflects traditional practices.

WEEDS & WILDFLOWERS BY MONTH:
MAR / APRIL / MAY / JUNE / JULY / AUG / SEPT

November 11, 2016

Wildflowers & Weeds

All Mushrooms Are Edible, But Some Only Once: A Midwest Foraging Guide

All Mushrooms Are Edible, Or Are They? All mushrooms are edible, but some only once—or so the saying goes! This witty warning reminds us that while the Midwest woods are bursting with edible fungi, safe...

August 22, 2016

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Cardinal Wildflower

Cardinal Flower The cardinal wildflower is a native Wisconsin perennial. It consists of many bright red tubular flowers. The tubular flowers are arranged in an elongated cluster. Cardinal flowers also make excellent garden flowers in...

July 6, 2016

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Purple Gaywing Wildflower

The purple Gaywing wildflower is often mistaken for an orchid. It goes by the names of Fringed Polygala, Gaywings, or Flowering Wintergreen. General Information Genus: Polygala paucifolia Family: Milkwort Life cycle: Perennial Origin: Native Habitat: Damp,...

May 26, 2016

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Eastern Red Columbine Wildflower

Eastern Red Columbine Wildflower Not exactly sure what draws me to the eastern red columbine wildflower. Is it the curvy lines? The color? Perhaps, because one sees them selectively?

April 27, 2016

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Yellow Bell Wildflower

Yellow Bell Wildflower In the wild, the yellow bell wildflower grows along riverbanks and other open, sunny areas with adequate rainfall and a perpetually moist substrate. The plants do not tolerate shade or salty or...

The endangered Dwarf Lake Iris wildflower is a miniature iris that grows nowhere else in the world but in the Great Lakes Region. Found only in Michigan, Manitoulin Island and the Bruce Peninsula in Ontario, and the Door Peninsula of Wisconsin. It is especially concentrated along certain stretches of the Great Lakes shoreline.

April 20, 2016

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Endangered Dwarf Lake Iris Wildflower

Endangered Dwarf Lake Iris Wildflower The endangered Dwarf Lake Iris wildflower is a miniature iris that grows nowhere else in the world but in the Great Lakes Region. It is especially concentrated along certain stretches of...

August 14, 2015

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Bittersweet Nightshade Wildflower

Bittersweet Nightshade Wildflower – Known as Bittersweet Nightshade, this dainty flower is easily identified by its five dark to mid-purple flowers with a pointed yellow center, and sits on a weak vine.

April 23, 2015

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Downy Yellow Violet

Downy Yellow Violet The Downy Yellow Violet is found in woodland areas during the months of April and May in Wisconsin. They like rich, dry soil.