Tag Archives: Native plants

Spicebush Sorrow Tale

I check the Spicebush leaves for signs of Spicebush Swallowtail caterpillars. These caterpillars are builders! They fold over leaves and bind them with silk. This year, I spotted two Spicebush Swallowtail caterpillars. Last year, I brought caterpillars indoors and enjoyed watching their transformation. They start off as a brownish color. Then, they grow much largerContinue reading “Spicebush Sorrow Tale”

Primrose Moths

Primrose caterpillars are born from eggs laid on Primrose flowers. They feast upon their golden cradles and travel down the stalks to burrow below to the roots of the flower. Primrose Moths spend most of their lives dormant. They lay waiting throughout the autumn, winter, spring, and early summer. But for one brief time, theyContinue reading “Primrose Moths”

First Monarch Caterpillars of 2022

July 23rd – first Monarch caterpillar of the year! It is always exciting to find one of these elusive beauties, but the first one is something special . I handed this treasure over to my 9 year old next door neighbor. I provided her with a mesh enclosure and lots of direction. She participated inContinue reading “First Monarch Caterpillars of 2022”

Pretty in Pink

I spotted two Rosy Maple Moths taking shelter inside the petals of the tall primrose. I wonder if their choice of respite is a form of camouflage. The pink buds of the primrose resemble the blush colored hue of the moths. Curled up inside the flowers, I almost overlooked them – they were well hiddenContinue reading “Pretty in Pink”

Early July on the Hellstrip

The milkweed flowers wither and give way to their plump, silk filled pods. Purple Coneflowers (Echinacea purpura) begin to open, attracting cheerful bees. The Indian Blankets (Gaillardia pulchella) continue to bloom – their red and gold petals contrast the tall green milkweed stalks.

Late June on the Hellstrip

The Hellstrip becomes a living rainbow – a riot of color and life. Flame red Indian Blankets (Gaillardia pulchella) burst through the fading milkweed blossoms. A mature Asclepias tuberosa is enchantingly bright and beautiful. Towards the east end of the strip, a large cluster of bright white daisies seem to look at us with cheerfulContinue reading “Late June on the Hellstrip”

Garden in the Woods

Garden in the Woods is a botanical garden which is singular for its focus on the exhibition of native plants.  Nestled in the heart of busy Middlesex County, Garden in the Woods is a peaceful sanctuary.  Visitors enjoy rustic trails which are dotted with different biomes.  We started out on a pathway of sun dappledContinue reading “Garden in the Woods”

Rejoice!

All at once, the milkweed have bloomed. The air is redolent with their heady perfume. My Hellstrip plantings seem to facilitate conversation about milkweed. I have had many great chats with the people who have stopped to both admire and ask questions about the growth. In my mind, Milkweed is a vital part of theContinue reading “Rejoice!”