Blue Cohosh (Buds and Blooms)

Blue Cohosh Buds
Blue Cohosh Flowers (and visitor)

Here are some blue cohosh buds from back in March. I found these in the Greenbriar area of the Smokies. Below these buds, are some flowers in bloom, which I found yesterday in southern Virginia. The Smokies are at least a week or two ahead of Virginia, in general, but it varies with location and particularly elevation. On top of that, some plants bloom earlier than others due to the natural variation within the population. [PS: It was somewhat windy on the day I got these shots, so it took great patience and careful timing to stop the motion. Add to that the movement of the pollinator and you can guess it was a challenge, but a fun challenge. Pollinators always make wildflower photography more exciting!]

Dutchmen's Breeches

I found this plant yesterday while walking through the woods of southern Virginia. This Dutchman's Breeches has PINKINSH flowers instead of the typical white. It is not unheard of, but it is uncommon! This hint of pink in the petals gives an idea that the pink color of "bleeding hearts" (a domesticated relative) is indeed a natural phenomenon, just selected for intentionally (by humans) over time. Genetic variation is pretty cool.

Spring Flowers are Blooming Again!

It has been forever since I posted a spring wildflower photo here. Sorry about that. I have been busy doing too many other things (including weddings and directories). As of last week, I am working as efficiently as possible on preparations for the upcoming Annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in the Smokies. It begins the week of April 20. I am doing a Wednesday presentation after the kick off lunch (check the printable brochure on the home page). I will also be selling photos as a vendor. Here is one photo that I have just prepared and printed up as a card; I will make some larger prints too. It is Sweet White Trillium. I got this shot last year (same week as last year's pilgrimage) when hanging out with my photographer friend Kyle. He "found" the shot but let me try it too. The front (lower) flower is intentionally in focus while the back flower (top) is not. The shot can work ok as long as the "out of focus" part appears intentional rather than as just a mistake!