ChicagoNatureNow! ALERT
07-03-2024
Mike MacDonald’s
Chicago Nature NOW! Alert
July 3, 2024
(Independence Day Edition)
“Weekly Wildflower Forecasts Featuring
Chicago’s Best Weekend Getaways & Nature Walks”
Summer Nature Walks & Outdoor Getaways!
Don’t miss one beautiful moment.
Click here to subscribe to receive FREE wildflower forecasts!
Each week, we offer you opportunities to find peace during this trying time!
PLEASE DONATE IF WE’VE HELPED YOU FIND SOLACE IN NATURE.
Donate to Our GoFundMe Campaign
Get outside to experience magnificent flower shows
in our showcase prairies and savannas.
Experience Fourth of July Fireworks in Our Prairies
Around the 4th of July, fireflies light up the nighttime prairie at Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester. This image was recorded over an 87-second period from the deck of the Franzosenbusch prairie house. Fireflies flash their bulbs as they look for mates. Males fly around, while females perch on plants.*
WILDFLOWER FORECAST & HIGHLIGHTS to help you plan your outdoor adventures into Chicago’s Prairies, Woodlands and Savannas:
Early July can offer stunning shows of golden prairie coreopsis, ivory wild quinine, and purple leadplant. But nature isn’t just about flowers. It’s about the experience. Explore and discover a preserve from the list below. Be open to nature’s unexpected gifts, whether it be a colorful, awe-inspiring bloom, the mysterious squeak of two rubbing trees mimicking the cry of a baby animal, or the life-affirming scent of mountain mint. All of these things will open up your life to a world of wonder and intrigue.
During this first week of July, prairie coreopsis, leadplant, pale purple coneflower, butterfly weed, and wild quinine can create some stunning displays. The first two species are featured as our Plants of the Week along with Chicago’s most surprising native plant: eastern prickly pear cactus. What?! Chicago has a cactus? Yes we do! You can find also find its large yellow blossoms in sandy prairies and oak savannas, including Miller Woods, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Powderhorn Marsh & Prairie, and Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve.
Purple leadplant prominently erupts at Somme Prairie Grove, Pembroke Savanna, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, and Bluff Spring Fen. At the latter two sites, a heart-stopping mix of leadplant and golden prairie coreopsis often bloom side-by-side. However, the finest show of leadplant happens at Somme Prairie Grove where it nearly brings me to tears. And another purple flower called purple prairie clover often begins its bloom in the first week of July.
The best shows of pale purple coneflower take place at Bluff Spring Fen, Belmont Prairie, on the slopes outside the fence at Shoe Factory Road Prairie, and to some extent at Theodore Stone Preserve and Middlefork Savanna. Golden prairie coreopsis shines most brightly at Shoe Factory Road Prairie and Bluff Spring Fen.
Spears Woods and Wolf Road Prairie are aflower with many species, including the omnipresent cauliflower heads of wild quinine, which can be found at any of our mesic prairies. And the beautiful orange pom pom flower heads of butterfly weed are starting to flower in our prairies and savannas, including Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Somme Prairie Grove, and Belmont Prairie.
The dramatic pearly trumpet-shaped flowers of foxglove beardtongue may still be flowering in our local prairies, especially at Spears Woods and Bluff Spring Fen. I love this plant because, in the fall, their seeds smell exactly, and I mean “exactly,” like vomit! In stark contrast, you can now experience a most wonderful fragrance by dropping to your knees and lowering your nose into the pink blossom of pasture rose. Over several weeks in late spring, it blooms barely inches from the ground. During that time, whenever we’re together, I partake in a sacred ritual. I drop to my knees and bow in reverence, nose to petal. However, last year, I didn’t notice the poison ivy growing right next to the flower. I immediately felt a tingling on my upper lip, but it was too late. It was a small price to pay for the many years of delight that this flower has brought me.
And finally, the run of Ohio spiderwort may is reaching its end. But you may still be able to experience the ephemeral blue flowers that open to meet their one-and-only day, then dissolve into a gem of purple liquid. You can find them growing at many of our showcase preserves. Click here to read my poem about it.
Here is my most profound recommendation for enjoying your time in nature. If the preserve allows, arrive before first light. A morning rendezvous with nature is a magical experience that vastly transcends what’s possible at other times of day. In the early light, the world expands beyond the usual three dimensions, as the transformation from darkness into light excites more than just the visual sense. As night gives birth to dawn, and the landscape gently turns from azure to gold, the soft and changing light is a spectacle for the eyes. A moist fog or a splash of crisp dew against your skin affirms your existence. The still atmosphere concentrates the fragrances floating in the air and provides a tranquil stage for birds to project their crystal melodies. In the morning, you’ll find all of this, along with the promise of a new day.
SUMMER WILDFLOWER GETAWAYS AROUND CHICAGO:
I’ve ranked the preserves on this week’s list based on the information predicted by my one-of-a-kind propriety database of wildflowers blooming events, starting out with the best or “Go!” The “Go, if You’re in the Neighborhood” section is for sites that are worth visiting if you can’t make it to the top-rated preserves.
LIKELY, THIS WEEK’S BEST CHOICES (“GO!”):
Somme Prairie Grove in Northbrook: This preserve’s finest flower shows happen in July. Words are not sufficient to describe the wave of emotion that washes over me as I catch sight of the kaleidoscopic knobs. Low mounds under the open skies to the north are home to scenes filled with an amalgam of color, texture, joy, inspiration, and life. Passionate purples mix with sparkling whites and startling explosions of orange. And glorious golds begin at your feet and rise toward the clouds. All this happens upon a flowing canvas shaped by emerald hearts, mops, and bottlebrushes. You’ll find leadplant, purple prairie clover, wild quinine, rattlesnake master, butterfly weed, mountain mint, black-eyed Susan, compass plant, prairie dock, and prairie dropseed. Blooms of purple prairie clover begin to spread from the knobs to put on shows in other parts of the savanna. On your way to the knobs, you’ll find these same flowers and several more, including many marsh phlox, pasture rose, prairie lily, common St. John’s wort, daisy fleabane, white wild indigo, fragrant round plumes of New Jersey tea, and the tall tuberous Indian plantain. Also take this time to appreciate the beautiful textures from the foliage of sedges, grasses, and bloomers-to-be, including the floppy hairdos of prairie dropseed, heart-shaped leaves of prairie dock, desert-looking rattlesnake master, and fern-looking leadplant.
Shoe Factory Road Prairie in Hoffman Estates: This preserve is officially located within the fence at the top of the hill. Usually, the start of July stages a glorious show of leadplant and prairie coreopsis. Also look for wild quinine, downy phlox, and a handful of short green milkweed amidst a sea of porcupine grass. Throughout the prairie, you’ll find various lush textures and green hues from forbs, sedges, grasses, and bloomers-to-be, including the floppy hairdos of prairie dropseed, heart-shaped leaves of prairie dock, desert-looking rattlesnake master, and fern-looking leadplant. Outside the fence on your way up to the entrance, you should see hundreds of pale purple coneflower blooming on the southern and western slopes accompanied by wild quinine. You may also find leadplant, rattlesnake master, wild bergamot, and purple prairie clover. NOTE: Consider visiting Bluff Spring Fen while you’re here. It’s roughly in the neighborhood.
Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion: The black oak savanna (or sand savanna) is the most colorful portion of the preserve, where a diverse array of flowers may be blooming, including orange butterfly weed, golden hoary puccoon and sand coreopsis, pink pasture rose and marsh phlox, white daisy fleabane and flowering spurge, the blue morning blossoms of Ohio spiderwort, and the fragrant pink pasture rose. Under the sun of the sand prairie and the dunes to the east, flowering spurge and shrubby cinquefoil are probably blooming. And keep your eyes peeled for the spectacular yellow blossoms of eastern prickly pear cactus. You’ll also find these three special grasses: marram grass, June grass, and porcupine grass. Marram grass grows in the most barren sandy soil closer to the beach. June grass is best experienced early and late in the day when it’s white plumes radiate like small torches. And porcupine grass has long spearlike seeds that drill themselves into the soil, though many of seeds may have already dropped. Watch my real-time video of the drilling seed below. NOTE: I highly recommend that you VISIT EARLY IN THE DAY to avoid the rambunctious beachgoers. While you’re there, consider the short drive north to see Chiwaukee Prairie.
Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin: The grand performances of pale purple coneflower are often at peak bloom or just a little past. The white snapdragon flowers of foxglove beardtongue can be quite prominent, though they may be showing their age. And the golden rays of freshly blooming prairie coreopsis usually reach peak bloom before the first of July. The spikes of leadplant are turning purple in time for their beautiful show in July. All these flowers are complemented by the cauliflower crowns of wild quinine and sprays of porcupine grass. Ohio spiderwort may still be blooming in the mornings. And keep your eye out for fragrant pasture rose at the base of the southeast kame where the purple spikes of leadplant are still waiting to flower. You should also find flashes of orange from butterfly weed, gold from black-eyed Susan, points of blue vervain, and skewers of white wild indigo.
Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove: This is best time of year to visit this remnant prairie when several colorful flowers bloom at once, led by a spectacular performances of orange butterfly weed and pale purple coneflower amidst a blue veil of scurfy pea and the dramatic alabaster blooms of wild quinine. You also might find golden black-eyed Susan and false sunflower. There might also still be some blooms of Ohio spiderwort, with purple flowers that open around sunrise and soon shrivel away into a purple liquid. Very cool, huh? Click here to learn about spiderwort’s miraculous melting flowers. And porcupine grass is showing off its long miraculous seeds that drill themselves into the soil. Watch my video of the drilling seed. And finally, appreciate the large gorgeous leaves of prairie dock and compass plant that glow brightly under a backlit sun.
Spears Woods in Willow Springs: Visit the prairies for the best shows, which usually comes from dramatic displays of alabaster wild quinine alongside with sparkling mountain mint. Other ivory blooms include foxglove beardtongue, white wild indigo, and daisy fleabane. The ephemeral blue blooms of Ohio spiderwort may still be blooming in the mornings. You may discover small explosions of orange butterfly weed, yellow eruptions of prairie sundrop, a sprinkling of golden black-eyed Susan, and possibly an early blooming of compass plant. If you pay close attention, you may find the sublime blossoms of orange Michigan lily and purple milkweed. Climbing wild rose should be reaching peak bloom. It looks like a large bush. And finally, scan the prairie for the orange Silly String of parasitic field dodder draped over and around the plants that it’s feeding on. Spears Woods is one of the most beautiful sites in the region, where your walk will take you through woodlands, prairies, and around gorgeous wetlands.
Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester: Around now, the best flower shows take place in the southernmost portion of the prairie with a dramatic performance of wild quinine. New flowers should be starting to bloom with color getting better by the day. Along the way, you may experience fresh blooms of white Culver’s root, flowering spurge, and rattlesnake master alongside golden rosinweed, and yellow coneflower, and lavender puffs of wild bergamot. You’ll also find the occasional white wild indigo, a smattering of yellow-petaled black-eyed Susan and towering stalks of gold-flowered compass plant. The textures and colors of the foliage adds to the excitement, including the blue-greens of rattlesnake master and hundreds of prairie dock hearts that glow in the light of a low sun.
Pembroke Savanna in Hopkins Park: You should find large displays of daisy fleabane and possibly a beautiful display of goat’s rue alongside buttery blooms of Cleland’s evening primrose, pink spotted bee balm, some white sparkles of flowering spurge, and small eruptions of orange butterfly weed. The beautiful pink pasture rose should also be available for you to inhale its intoxicating fragrance. This is also a great place to see spiderwort. It can be everywhere. But you need to arrive early before it gets hot.
Miller Woods (at Paul H. Douglas Environmental Center for Education) in Indiana Dunes National Park: Depending on the blooming status of spiderwort, this preserve may be a “Go” if you visit in the morning when it’s in full flower and before the purple blossoms melt away. In any case, there’s always a lot to explore here, and you can make a day of it, especially because there are other places in the park to visit. Check in at the visitor center at Miller Woods for guidance. I love the always-energetic sprays of acrobatic bracken fern that provide texture and beauty even when nothing’s abloom. In addition to spiderwort, sprays of hairy puccoon, sand coreopsis, and two-flowered Cynthia add golden tones to the mix, and downy phlox provide splashes of pink. And along your hike, you may experience fragrant pasture rose. Walk the main trail that heads to the lake and you may discover some eastern prickly pear cactus that prefers the open sand. After your hike, consider checking out nearby Tolleston Dunes.
“GO, IF YOU’RE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD”:
Gensburg-Markham Prairie in Markham: First of all, the preserve is NOT LOCKED. It only looks that way. The chain is just draped over the top of the gate. Just move the chain and enter. Once inside, I suggest walking all of the trails because of how the prairie and flowers vary along the way. The preserve is quite green, but if you don’t have a lot of time and you’re in the Markham area, it’s worth a trip into nature to clear your head. The most prominent flower in bloom is probably wild quinine. You may also see some white wild indigo, black-eyed Susan, common milkweed, marsh phlox, and tuberous Indian plantain. Along my walk, I once startled a mother deer and its fawn. Before I knew it, they disappeared into the prairie shrubbery, forever hidden.
NOTE: Under the summer sun, this prairie can feel hot and bright. For a more enjoyable time, visit in the morning or late-afternoon.
Middlefork Savanna in Lake Forest: This preserve consists of prairie, wetland, and oak savanna. Ohio spiderwort may still be flowering and often puts on a fine show alongside nice ivory displays of foxglove beardtongue and meadow anemone. Tall purple meadow rue, with fluffy yellowish flowers and purple stems, can sometimes be abundant about a quarter-mile north of the entrance. False sunflower is probably in bloom. And check the wetland south of the main entrance for the beautiful white fragrant water lily.
Chiwaukee Prairie in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin: There might be a very nice display of marsh phlox alongside tuberous Indian plantain, and Ohio spiderwort. And look for beautiful sprays of porcupine grass, ferns, and prairie dropseed.
PLANTS OF THE WEEK: EASTERN PRICKLY PEAR CACTUS, PRAIRIE COREOPSIS, & LEADPLANT
Eastern Prickly Pear Cactus
Eastern prickly pear cactus blooms can be found between late June through mid-July in sandy preserves around the Chicago area, including Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Miller Woods, Powderhorn Prairie, and Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve.*
Prairie Coreopsis
Sometime between late June and early July, the golden rays of prairie coreopsis (or stiff coreopsis) can be found in the best preserves, often in the dry and gravelly spots. The plant multiplies by spreading rhizome to create colonies. Their bright yellow flower heads bloom at the beginning of summer before tall warm-season grasses obscure them from the sight of pollinating insects. Atop this gravelly hill prairie at Shoe Factory Road Prairie, deep-rooted leadplant combines with the happy yellow faces of prairie coreopsis as they shine through the dissipating fog.*
Leadplant
Here at Somme Prairie Grove, the purple plant in this panorama is leadplant, which can search for water fifteen feet below the arid surface. Other drought-tolerant species seen here include prairie dropseed and wild quinine, in the foreground; and further out, prairie dock, compass plant, and rattlesnake master. You can find leadplant growing at many other preserves, including Bluff Spring Fen, Pembroke Savanna, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, Gensburg-Markham Prairie, and Wolf Road Prairie.*
PHOTO SECTION
Somme Prairie Grove Overflows with Beauty and Biodiversity
At Somme Prairie Grove, the magnificent blooms upon the knobs of the savanna come to life in the warmth of the morning light.*
At Somme Prairie Grove, the many flowers of the oak savanna sparkled brilliantly in the last light of day.*
Wild Quinine Can Be Found in Many Prairies
This is a common scene at Elgin’s Bluff Spring Fen. Here in the golden light of morning, wild quinine, prairie coreopsis, and leadplant overlook the foggy fen.*
Pale Purple Coneflower
Pale purple coneflower is favorite of mine. I just love how the petals droop downward. The plant has deep taproots, allowing it to survive drought and to thrive in gravel and dolomite limestone prairies. In the warm light of rising or setting sun, the flowers turn a stunning orange pink. Here at Belmont Prairie, I picked out this scene from a thousand coneflowers: a miniature, slow-motion rodeo that was taking place upon one prickly flower head. I watched as a tiny ant rode the back of a slinking inchworm.*
Sometimes the petals of pale purple coneflowers are colored pale white. Here, a combination of pink and white coneflowers populate the kame at Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin, Illinois.*
The predawn clouds take on the colors of the pale purple coneflower at this dolomite limestone prairie at Theodore Stone Preserve in Hodgkins, Illinois. You can usually find this majestic plant growing most prominently at Bluff Spring Fen, Belmont Prairie, and on the slopes outside the fence at Shoe Factory Road Prairie,*
Each day, Mother Nature chooses from an array of natural elements and then fashions them into new works of art. Most Junes at Belmont Prairie, dazzling mosaics like this go on exhibit. Assembled from over one hundred pale purple coneflowers, the final work, not the individual pieces, draws our attention.*
June brings pale purple coneflower, scurfy pea, and porcupine grass to Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove.*
Butterfly Weed
The orange flowers of butterfly weed are a popular source of nutrition for our native pollinators, including this coral hairstreak butterfly that sucks up nectar at Gensburg-Markham Prairie in Markham, Illinois.*
Butterfly weed is a milkweed, but it doesn’t possess the milky sap that gives milkweeds their name. Here at Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove, the bright orange flowers of butterfly weed makes a colorful statement. You can also find this plant at several high-quality prairies and savannas, including Bluff Spring Fen, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, and Somme Prairie Grove.*
Butterfly weed blooms across the oak savanna at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve. You can also find it at many other preserves including, Somme Prairie Grove, Belmont Prairie, and Bluff Spring Fen.*
Compass Plant
The golden blooms of compass plant are just starting in some of our prairies. They’re an iconic species that can be found in most of our mesic prairies.
The Melting Flowers of Ohio Spiderwort
In late May or early June, Ohio spiderwort begins a performance that will last a month or longer, starring a cluster of buds that releases only a couple of flowers each day. Each morning, a new bud opens into a delicate blue or purple flower. You may find spiderwort, right now, at Wolf Road Prairie, Belmont Prairie, Bluff Spring Fen, Pembroke Savanna, Powderhorn Prairie, Miller Woods, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, and other preserves.
As the day wears on, each blossom begins to wither—then miraculously melts into a gem of royal jelly. An enzyme in the flower causes it to slowly decompose, and hot weather speeds up the process. It’s noon, and this flower is already shriveling.*
By midafternoon, this spiderwort bloom was melting blue between my fingertips. Do you notice my purple fingers? I was arrested earlier that morning.
This is the scene from Wolf Road Prairie, as blossoms of Ohio spiderwort open to meet the new day.*
At Miller Woods (Indiana Dunes National Park), spiderwort and ferns cover the side of the dunes.*
Porcupine Grass and its Miraculous Drilling Seeds
The seeds of porcupine grass are located at the tip of long sharp needles that fall off the plant and then slowly drill themselves into the soil. You can find porcupine grass at Shoe Factory Road Prairie, Belmont Prairie, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Bluff Spring Fen, and Powderhorn Marsh & Prairie.*
Watch my video of porcupine grass drilling itself into the soil right before your eyes!
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PORCUPINE GRASS.
Pasture Rose is a Flower that Must be Smelled:
Pasture rose grows here in the sand prairie at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve. But you can also find it at other preserves, including Bluff Spring Fen and Pembroke Savanna. The fragrance of pasture rose is transcendent—a spiritual experience.*
Culver’s Root
On this mysterious summer morning at Wolf Road Prairie, white spikes of Culver’s root, extend into the outer reaches and, like a dream, disappear into the fog.
Wild Bergamot & Yellow Coneflower Blooms in the First Half of July
“Lavender in color and mint in fragrance” describes wild bergamot. “Whimsical with an aroma of anise” describes yellow coneflower. Both are native to the prairie, and both are healers. Known as pioneer species, they are among the first plants to colonize disturbed or degraded areas. Their presence improves soil quality while allowing other plants to move in, leading to greater biodiversity. You can see and smell these plants at most prairies, including here at Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin.*
Rattlesnake Master Flowers in the First Half of July
Rattlesnake master is a wonderful Chicago prairie flower that resembles Tinker Toys or molecular structures, or something you might find in Arizona or Texas. The plant gets its name because some Native Americans brewed a tea from the root as an antidote for rattlesnake venom. To prevent bites, some chewed on the root, then spat on their hands before handling a rattlesnake. Of course, I’m interested to know if this really works. What’s more, the research may not even require a flight to the desert. That’s because, believe it or not, the rare and endangered eastern massasauga rattlesnake lives right here in the Chicago area. So, if you perform the experiment, please get back to me with the results, either you or next of kin. To experience rattlesnake master, visit Belmont Prairie, Somme Prairie Grove, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, Wolf Road Prairie, Fermilab Prairie, Gensburg Markham Prairie, Kickapoo Prairie, Spears Woods, Theodore Stone Preserve, and other local prairies and savannas.*
Hoary Puccoon
The golden blooms of hoary puccoon can be found, here, at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve and many other preserves around the region including Miller Woods, Powderhorn Marsh and Prairie, Wolf Road Prairie, Gensburg-Markham Prairie, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, and more.*
Purple Milkweed
The striking blooms of purple milkweed can be found in the best prairies and savannas, including Somme Prairie Grove and, here, at Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester, Illinois.*
The Charismatic Foliage of Compass Plant & Prairie Dock
These are the large leaves of the prairie’s most iconic plants. The heart-shaped leaf is that of prairie dock, and the long-lobed leaf is its cousin compass plant.*
Green Glow
Green glow describes leaves that glow a bright green from sunlight shining through them. Here, we see a special kind of green glow that results in a shadow play, as sunlight shines through a translucent leaf of prairie dock, as golden Alexander casts its distinctive silhouette.*
Prairie Root System
The root system of some common prairie plants. Note that cylindrical blazing star has the deepest root that reaches over fifteen feet! Click the image for a bigger view.
* Photo is representational and was not recorded this year. Bloom times vary from year to year.
If you find this website of Chicago nature information useful, please consider donating or purchasing my nationally-acclaimed book that celebrates all of the preserves featured on this website.
—Mike
ChicagoNatureNow! ALERT
06-24-2024
Mike MacDonald’s
Chicago Nature NOW! Alert
June 24, 2024
“Weekly Wildflower Forecasts Featuring
Chicago’s Best Weekend Getaways & Nature Walks”
Plan the Best Nature Walks & Outdoor Getaways Around Chicago!
Don’t miss one beautiful moment.
Click here to subscribe to receive FREE wildflower forecasts!
Each week, we offer you opportunities to find peace during this trying time!
PLEASE DONATE IF WE’VE HELPED YOU FIND SOLACE IN NATURE.
Donate to Our GoFundMe Campaign
Get outside to experience magnificent flower shows
in our showcase prairies and savannas.
WILDFLOWER FORECAST & HIGHLIGHTS to help you plan your outdoor adventures into Chicago’s Prairies, Woodlands and Savannas:
The final week of June offers fine shows starring orange butterfly weed, ivory wild quinine, golden prairie coreopsis, and possibly purple leadplant. But nature isn’t just about flowers. It’s about the experience. Explore and discover a preserve from the list below. Be open to nature’s unexpected gifts, whether it be a colorful, awe-inspiring bloom, the mysterious squeak of two rubbing trees mimicking the cry of a baby animal, or the life-affirming odor of skunk cabbage. All of these things will open up your life to a world of wonder and intrigue.
During the final week of June, prairie coreopsis, butterfly weed, and wild quinine stage breathtaking shows. And it’s possible that the magnificent purple shows of leadplant have also begun. The best shows take place at Bluff Spring Fen, Belmont Prairie, on the slopes outside the fence at Shoe Factory Road Prairie, and to some extent at Theodore Stone Preserve and Middlefork Savanna. And prairie coreopsis shines most brightly at Shoe Factory Road Prairie and Bluff Spring Fen. You can now experience a most wonderful fragrance by dropping to your knees and lowering your nose into the pink blossom of pasture rose. Over several weeks in late spring, it blooms barely inches from the ground. During that time, whenever we’re together, I partake in a sacred ritual. I drop to my knees and bow in reverence, nose to petal. Once, as I was appreciating the fragrance at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, I felt a tingling on my upper lip. It was poison ivy growing right next to the flower. It was a small price to pay for the many years of delight that this flower has brought me.
Spears Woods and Wolf Road Prairie are also aflower with many species, including the omnipresent cauliflower heads of wild quinine, which can be found at any of our mesic prairies. And the beautiful orange pom pom flower heads of butterfly weed (our Plant of the Week) are starting to flower in our prairies and savannas.
For just a while longer, you can still experience the ephemeral blue flowers of Ohio spiderwort that open to meet their one-and-only day, then dissolve into a gem of purple liquid. They are now melting hearts around Chicago as they continue their monthlong show. You can find them at many preserves around the area. Click here to read my poem about it.
If a flower that turns to liquid isn’t weird enough, you may still be able to find porcupine grass with a seed that drills itself into the soil. Watch my real-time video of the drilling seed below. Look for this grass and its seeds at Belmont Prairie, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Bluff Spring Fen, Pembroke Savanna, Miller Woods, and Powderhorn Marsh & Prairie. And if you visit Pembroke Savanna or Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, look for the plumes of June grass that glow brightly in the spotlight of a low sun.
As we approach July, purple leadplant will begin to prominently erupt at Pembroke Savanna, Somme Prairie Grove, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, and Bluff Spring Fen. At the latter two sites, a heart-stopping mix of leadplant and golden prairie coreopsis often bloom side-by-side. In the sandy prairies and savannas, begin looking for the large yellow blossoms of eastern prickly pear cactus. What?! Chicago has a cactus? Yes we do! You can find also find it at Miller Woods, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Powderhorn Marsh & Prairie, and Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve.
Here is my most profound recommendation for enjoying your time in nature. If the preserve allows, arrive before first light. A morning rendezvous with nature is a magical experience that vastly transcends what’s possible at other times of day. In the early light, the world expands beyond the usual three dimensions, as the transformation from darkness into light excites more than just the visual sense. As night gives birth to dawn, and the landscape gently turns from azure to gold, the soft and changing light is a spectacle for the eyes. A moist fog or a splash of crisp dew against your skin affirms your existence. The still atmosphere concentrates the fragrances floating in the air and provides a tranquil stage for birds to project their crystal melodies. In the morning, you’ll find all of this, along with the promise of a new day.
SUMMER WILDFLOWER GETAWAYS AROUND CHICAGO:
I’ve ranked the preserves on this week’s list based on the information predicted by my one-of-a-kind propriety database of wildflowers blooming events, starting out with the best or “Go!” The “Go, if You’re in the Neighborhood” section is for sites that are worth visiting if you can’t make it to the top-rated preserves.
LIKELY, THIS WEEK’S BEST CHOICES (“GO!”):
Somme Prairie Grove in Northbrook: This preserve’s finest flower shows happen in July. Words are not sufficient to describe the wave of emotion that washes over me as I catch sight of the kaleidoscopic knobs. Low mounds under the open skies to the north are home to scenes filled with an amalgam of color, texture, joy, inspiration, and life. Passionate purples mix with sparkling whites and startling explosions of orange. And glorious golds begin at your feet and rise toward the clouds. All this happens upon a flowing canvas shaped by emerald hearts, mops, and bottlebrushes. You’ll find leadplant, purple prairie clover, wild quinine, rattlesnake master, butterfly weed, mountain mint, black-eyed Susan, compass plant, prairie dock, and prairie dropseed. Blooms of purple prairie clover begin to spread from the knobs to put on shows in other parts of the savanna. On your way to the knobs, you’ll find these same flowers and several more, including many marsh phlox, pasture rose, prairie lily, common St. John’s wort, daisy fleabane, white wild indigo, fragrant round plumes of New Jersey tea, and the tall tuberous Indian plantain. Also take this time to appreciate the beautiful textures from the foliage of sedges, grasses, and bloomers-to-be, including the floppy hairdos of prairie dropseed, heart-shaped leaves of prairie dock, desert-looking rattlesnake master, and fern-looking leadplant.
Shoe Factory Road Prairie in Hoffman Estates: This preserve is officially located within the fence at the top of the hill. Usually, the start of July stages a glorious show of leadplant and prairie coreopsis. Also look for wild quinine, downy phlox, and a handful of short green milkweed amidst a sea of porcupine grass. Throughout the prairie, you’ll find various lush textures and green hues from forbs, sedges, grasses, and bloomers-to-be, including the floppy hairdos of prairie dropseed, heart-shaped leaves of prairie dock, desert-looking rattlesnake master, and fern-looking leadplant. Outside the fence on your way up to the entrance, you should see hundreds of pale purple coneflower blooming on the southern and western slopes accompanied by wild quinine. You may also find leadplant, rattlesnake master, wild bergamot, and purple prairie clover. NOTE: Consider visiting Bluff Spring Fen while you’re here. It’s roughly in the neighborhood.
Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion: The black oak savanna (or sand savanna) is the most colorful portion of the preserve, where a diverse array of flowers may be blooming, including orange butterfly weed, golden hoary puccoon and sand coreopsis, pink pasture rose and marsh phlox, white daisy fleabane and flowering spurge, the blue morning blossoms of Ohio spiderwort, and the fragrant pink pasture rose. Under the sun of the sand prairie and the dunes to the east, flowering spurge and shrubby cinquefoil are close to flowering it still might be a little early, but keep your eyes peeled for the spectacular yellow blossoms of eastern prickly pear cactus. You’ll also find these three special grasses: marram grass, June grass, and porcupine grass. Marram grass grows in the most barren sandy soil closer to the beach. June grass is best experienced early and late in the day when it’s white plumes radiate like small torches. And porcupine grass has long spearlike seeds that drill themselves into the soil, though many of seeds may have already dropped. Watch my real-time video of the drilling seed below. NOTE: I highly recommend that you VISIT EARLY IN THE DAY to avoid the rambunctious beachgoers. While you’re there, consider the short drive north to see Chiwaukee Prairie.
Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin: The grand performances of pale purple coneflower are probably past peak bloom. The white snapdragon flowers of foxglove beardtongue are now showing their age, as well. And the golden rays of freshly blooming prairie coreopsis have probably reaching bloom. The spikes of leadplant may now be turning purple in time for a beautiful show in July. All these flowers are complemented by the cauliflower crowns of wild quinine and sprays of porcupine grass. Ohio spiderwort may still be blooming in the mornings. And keep your eye out for fragrant pasture rose at the base of the southeast kame where the purple spikes of leadplant are still waiting to flower. You should also find flashes of orange from butterfly weed, gold from black-eyed Susan, points of blue vervain, and skewers of white wild indigo.
Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove: This is best time of year to visit this remnant prairie when several colorful flowers bloom at once, led by a spectacular performances of orange butterfly weed and pale purple coneflower amidst a blue veil of scurfy pea and the dramatic alabaster blooms of wild quinine. You also might find golden black-eyed Susan and false sunflower. There might also still be some blooms of Ohio spiderwort, with purple flowers that open around sunrise and soon shrivel away into a purple liquid. Very cool, huh? Click here to learn about spiderwort’s miraculous melting flowers. And porcupine grass is showing off its long miraculous seeds that drill themselves into the soil. Watch my video of the drilling seed. And finally, appreciate the large gorgeous leaves of prairie dock and compass plant that glow brightly under a backlit sun.
Spears Woods in Willow Springs: Visit the prairies for the best shows, which usually comes from dramatic displays of alabaster wild quinine alongside with sparkling mountain mint. Other ivory blooms include foxglove beardtongue, white wild indigo, and daisy fleabane. The ephemeral blue blooms of Ohio spiderwort may still be blooming in the mornings. You may discover small explosions of orange butterfly weed, yellow eruptions of prairie sundrop, a sprinkling of golden black-eyed Susan, and possibly an early blooming of compass plant. If you pay close attention, you may find the sublime blossoms of orange Michigan lily and purple milkweed. Climbing wild rose should be reaching peak bloom. It looks like a large bush. And finally, scan the prairie for the orange Silly String of parasitic field dodder draped over and around the plants that it’s feeding on. Spears Woods is one of the most beautiful sites in the region, where your walk will take you through woodlands, prairies, and around gorgeous wetlands.
Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester: This is “Go!” for the morning hours to see the tremendous show of Ohio spiderwort, especially prominent along the southeast edge of the preserve near Wolf Road. If you visit in the afternoon (and possibly later in the morning) the flowers will be gone. Plus, keep in mind that the flowers fade more quickly when it’s hot. In the prairie, you’ll also find downy phlox, daisy fleabane, prairie sundrop, purple meadow rue, white wild quinine, the gorgeous purple milkweed, and the sublime orange prairie lily. If you’re around when the sun is low, then catch the green glow emanating from the many prairie dock leaves.
Pembroke Savanna in Hopkins Park: You should find large displays of daisy fleabane and possibly a beautiful display of goat’s rue alongside buttery blooms of Cleland’s evening primrose, pink spotted bee balm, some white sparkles of flowering spurge, and small eruptions of orange butterfly weed. The beautiful pink pasture rose should also be available for you to inhale its intoxicating fragrance. This is also a great place to see spiderwort. It can be everywhere. But you need to arrive early before it gets hot.
Miller Woods (at Paul H. Douglas Environmental Center for Education) in Indiana Dunes National Park: Depending on the blooming status of spiderwort, this preserve may be a “Go” if you visit in the morning when it’s in full flower and before the purple blossoms melt away. In any case, there’s always a lot to explore here, and you can make a day of it, especially because there are other places in the park to visit. Check in at the visitor center at Miller Woods for guidance. I love the always-energetic sprays of acrobatic bracken fern that provide texture and beauty even when nothing’s abloom. In addition to spiderwort, sprays of hairy puccoon, sand coreopsis, and two-flowered Cynthia add golden tones to the mix, and downy phlox provide splashes of pink. And along your hike, you may experience fragrant pasture rose. Walk the main trail that heads to the lake and you may discover some eastern prickly pear cactus that prefers the open sand. After your hike, consider checking out nearby Tolleston Dunes.
“GO, IF YOU’RE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD”:
Gensburg-Markham Prairie in Markham: First of all, the preserve is NOT LOCKED. It only looks that way. The chain is just draped over the top of the gate. Just move the chain and enter. Once inside, I suggest walking all of the trails because of how the prairie and flowers vary along the way. The preserve is quite green, but if you don’t have a lot of time and you’re in the Markham area, it’s worth a trip into nature to clear your head. The most prominent flower in bloom is probably wild quinine. You may also see some white wild indigo, black-eyed Susan, common milkweed, marsh phlox, and tuberous Indian plantain. Along my walk, I once startled a mother deer and its fawn. Before I knew it, they disappeared into the prairie shrubbery, forever hidden.
NOTE: Under the summer sun, this prairie can feel hot and bright. For a more enjoyable time, visit in the morning or late-afternoon.
Middlefork Savanna in Lake Forest: This preserve consists of prairie, wetland, and oak savanna. Ohio spiderwort may still be flowering and often puts on a fine show alongside nice ivory displays of foxglove beardtongue and meadow anemone. Tall purple meadow rue, with fluffy yellowish flowers and purple stems, can sometimes be abundant about a quarter-mile north of the entrance. False sunflower is probably in bloom. And check the wetland south of the main entrance for the beautiful white fragrant water lily.
Chiwaukee Prairie in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin: There might be a very nice display of marsh phlox alongside Ohio spiderwor and tuberous Indian plantain, a flower that smells like stinky feet. And look for beautiful sprays of porcupine grass, ferns, and prairie dropseed.
PLANT OF THE WEEK: BUTTERFLY WEED
The orange flowers of butterfly weed are a popular source of nutrition for our native pollinators, including this coral hairstreak butterfly that sucks up nectar at Gensburg-Markham Prairie in Markham, Illinois.*
Butterfly weed is a milkweed, but it doesn’t possess the milky sap that gives milkweeds their name. Here at Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove, the bright orange flowers of butterfly weed makes a colorful statement. You can also find this plant at several high-quality prairies and savannas, including Bluff Spring Fen, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, and Somme Prairie Grove.*
Butterfly weed blooms across the oak savanna at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve. You can also find it at many other preserves including, Somme Prairie Grove, Belmont Prairie, and Bluff Spring Fen.*
PHOTO SECTION
Pale Purple Coneflower
Pale purple coneflower is favorite of mine. I just love how the petals droop downward. The plant has deep taproots, allowing it to survive drought and to thrive in gravel and dolomite limestone prairies. In the warm light of rising or setting sun, the flowers turn a stunning orange pink. Here at Belmont Prairie, I picked out this scene from a thousand coneflowers: a miniature, slow-motion rodeo that was taking place upon one prickly flower head. I watched as a tiny ant rode the back of a slinking inchworm.*
Sometimes the petals of pale purple coneflowers are colored pale white. Here, a combination of pink and white coneflowers populate the kame at Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin, Illinois.*
The predawn clouds take on the colors of the pale purple coneflower at this dolomite limestone prairie at Theodore Stone Preserve in Hodgkins, Illinois. You can usually find this majestic plant growing most prominently at Bluff Spring Fen, Belmont Prairie, and on the slopes outside the fence at Shoe Factory Road Prairie,*
Each day, Mother Nature chooses from an array of natural elements and then fashions them into new works of art. Most Junes at Belmont Prairie, dazzling mosaics like this go on exhibit. Assembled from over one hundred pale purple coneflowers, the final work, not the individual pieces, draws our attention.*
June brings pale purple coneflower, scurfy pea, and porcupine grass to Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove.*
Prairie Coreopsis
In the second half of June atop the gravel hill of Shoe Factory Road Prairie grows deep-rooted leadplant and the happy yellow faces of prairie coreopsis that shine through the fog. You can find nice displays at Bluff Spring Fen, as well.*
Foxglove Beardtongue
The flowers of foxglove beardtongue resemble the snout of a dragon with a mouth that opens and closes as you squeeze the sides. This explains why it’s part of the snapdragon family. The flowers have no smell that I can detect. But come autumn, the seeds smell EXACTLY like vomit! Be still my heart.* In June, foxglove beardtongue blooms at Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin and many other preserves around the region.
The June prairies at Spears Woods in Willow Springs often put on a big show of foxglove beardtongue.*
At Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin, Illinois, pearly blossoms of foxglove beardtongue catch the morning rays and a new day awakens—one as splendid and picturesque as any place on Earth.*
The Melting Flowers of Ohio Spiderwort
In late May or early June, Ohio spiderwort begins a performance that will last a month or longer, starring a cluster of buds that releases only a couple of flowers each day. Each morning, a new bud opens into a delicate blue or purple flower. You may find spiderwort, right now, at Wolf Road Prairie, Belmont Prairie, Bluff Spring Fen, Pembroke Savanna, Powderhorn Prairie, Miller Woods, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, and more.
As the day wears on, each blossom begins to wither—then miraculously melts into a gem of royal jelly. An enzyme in the flower causes it to slowly decompose, and hot weather speeds up the process. It’s noon, and this flower is already shriveling.*
By midafternoon, this spiderwort bloom was melting blue between my fingertips. Do you notice my purple fingers? I was arrested earlier that morning.
This is the scene from Wolf Road Prairie, as blossoms of Ohio spiderwort open to meet the new day.*
At Miller Woods (Indiana Dunes National Park), spiderwort and ferns cover the side of the dunes.*
Porcupine Grass and its Miraculous Drilling Seeds
The seeds of porcupine grass are located at the tip of long sharp needles that fall off the plant and then slowly drill themselves into the soil. You can find porcupine grass at Belmont Prairie, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Bluff Spring Fen, and Powderhorn Marsh & Prairie.*
Watch my video of porcupine grass drilling itself into the soil right before your eyes!
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PORCUPINE GRASS.
Leadplant is Coming!
Here at Somme Prairie Grove, the purple plant in this panorama is leadplant, which can search for water fifteen feet below the arid surface. Other drought-tolerant species seen here include prairie dropseed and wild quinine, in the front; and farther out, prairie dock, compass plant, and rattlesnake master.*
Wild Quinine Can Be Found in Many Prairies
This is a common scene at Elgin’s Bluff Spring Fen. Here in the golden light of morning, wild quinine, prairie coreopsis, and leadplant overlook the foggy fen.*
Pasture Rose is a Flower that Must be Smelled:
Pasture rose grows here in the sand prairie at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve. But you can also find it at other preserves, including Bluff Spring Fen and Pembroke Savanna. The fragrance of pasture rose is transcendent—a spiritual experience.*
Hoary Puccoon
The golden blooms of hoary puccoon can be found, here, at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve and many other preserves around the region including Miller Woods, Powderhorn Marsh and Prairie, Wolf Road Prairie, Gensburg-Markham Prairie, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, and more.*
Purple Milkweed
The striking blooms of purple milkweed can be found in the best prairies and savannas, including Somme Prairie Grove and, here, at Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester, Illinois.*
Compass Plant
The golden blooms of compass plant are just starting in some of our prairies. They’re an iconic species that can be found in most of our mesic prairies.
Indian Paintbrush
Here at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Indian paintbrush brightens up the foggy morning landscape. You can also find this flower at Gensburg-Markham Prairie and Somme Prairie Grove.*
Purple Meadow Rue Towers in Some Prairies
In June, purple meadow rue towers above the blue morning blooms of Ohio spiderwort at Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester, Illinois.*
June Grass
June grass and hoary puccoon glow in the morning light of the sand savanna at Pembroke Savanna Nature Preserve in Hopkins Park.*
The Charismatic Foliage of Compass Plant & Prairie Dock
These are the large leaves of the prairie’s most iconic plants. The heart-shaped leaf is that of prairie dock, and the long-lobed leaf is its cousin compass plant.*
Green Glow
Green glow describes leaves that glow a bright green from sunlight shining through them. Here, we see a special kind of green glow that results in a shadow play, as sunlight shines through a translucent leaf of prairie dock, as golden Alexander casts its distinctive silhouette.*
Prairie Root System
The root system of some common prairie plants. Note that cylindrical blazing star has the deepest root that reaches over fifteen feet! Click the image for a bigger view.
* Photo is representational and was not recorded this year. Bloom times vary from year to year.
If you find this website of Chicago nature information useful, please consider donating or purchasing my nationally-acclaimed book that celebrates all of the preserves featured on this website.
—Mike
ChicagoNatureNow! ALERT
06-17-2024
Mike MacDonald’s
Chicago Nature NOW! Alert
June 17, 2024
(Juneteenth Holiday Edition)
“Weekly Wildflower Forecasts Featuring
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WILDFLOWER FORECAST & HIGHLIGHTS to help you plan your outdoor adventures into Chicago’s Woodlands:
The Juneteenth holiday offers fine flower shows, starring pale purple coneflower, sand coreopsis, Ohio spiderwort, and foxglove beardtongue. But nature isn’t just about flowers. It’s about the experience. Explore and discover a preserve from the list below. Be open to nature’s unexpected gifts, whether it be a colorful, awe-inspiring bloom, the mysterious squeak of two rubbing trees mimicking the cry of a baby animal, or the life-affirming odor of skunk cabbage. All of these things will open up your life to a world of wonder and intrigue.
The middle of June brings breathtaking shows of prairie coreopsis and pale purple coneflower. The best shows for pale purple coneflower take place at Bluff Spring Fen, Belmont Prairie, on the slopes outside the fence at Shoe Factory Road Prairie, and to some extent at Theodore Stone Preserve and Middlefork Savanna. Golden prairie coreopsis shines most brightly at Shoe Factory Road Prairie and Bluff Spring Fen.
And the dramatic pearly trumpet-shaped flowers of foxglove beardtongue (our Plant of the Week) should be blooming strong in our local prairies, especially at Spears Woods and Bluff Spring Fen I love this plant because, in the fall, their seeds smell exactly, and I mean “exactly,” like vomit! In stark contrast, you can now experience a most wonderful fragrance by dropping to your knees and lowering your nose into the pink blossom of pasture rose. Over several weeks in late spring, it blooms barely inches from the ground. During that time, whenever we’re together, I partake in a sacred ritual. I drop to my knees and bow in reverence, nose to petal. However, last year, I didn’t notice the poison ivy growing right next to the flower. I immediately felt a tingling on my upper lip, but it was too late. It was a small price to pay for the many years of delight that this flower has brought me.
Here is my most profound recommendation for enjoying your time in nature. If the preserve allows, arrive before first light. A morning rendezvous with nature is a magical experience that vastly transcends what’s possible at other times of day. In the early bright, the world expands beyond the usual three dimensions, as the transformation from darkness into light excites more than just the visual sense. As night gives birth to dawn, and the landscape gently turns from azure to gold, the soft and changing light is a spectacle for the eyes. A moist fog or a splash of crisp dew against your skin affirms your existence. The still atmosphere concentrates the fragrances floating in the air and provides a tranquil stage for birds to project their crystal melodies. In the morning, you’ll find all this, along with the promise of a new day.
In June, the melting flower of Ohio spiderwort stages a monthlong show at various savannas and prairies throughout the region. The flower dissolves soon after it first opens. Yes, you read that correctly. Click here to read my poem about it. And if a flower that turns to liquid isn’t weird enough, you can now find porcupine grass with a seed that drills itself into the soil. Watch my real-time video of the drilling seed below. Look for this grass and its seeds at Belmont Prairie, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Bluff Spring Fen, Pembroke Savanna, Miller Woods, and Powderhorn Marsh & Prairie. If you visit Pembroke Savanna or Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, look for the plumes of June grass that glow brightly in the spotlight of a low sun.
SPRING WILDFLOWER GETAWAYS AROUND CHICAGO:
I’ve ranked the preserves on this week’s list based on the information predicted by my one-of-a-kind propriety database of wildflowers blooming events, starting out with the best or “Go!” The “Go, if You’re in the Neighborhood” section is for sites that are worth visiting if you can’t make it to the top-rated preserves.
LIKELY, THIS WEEK’S BEST CHOICES (“GO!”):
Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion: The spectacular, sunny show of golden sand coreopsis could now be underway. Though you can find them shining under the trees, breathtaking expanses of the flower are commonly found in the sun-soaked sand prairie to the east. Blooming alongside the coreopsis, you may see the tiny white sparkles of sand cress and sandwort, the fluffy white plumes of New Jersey tea, and lots of porcupine grass. In the shade of the black oak savanna, downy phlox and pasture rose add beautiful splashes of pink amidst the fading blue-and-white blossoms of wild lupine and the three-petaled blossoms of Ohio spiderwort that turn to a purple liquid in the heat of the day. Along your trek, look for hoary puccoon, hairy puccoon, and, if you’re observant, Indian paintbrush. While you’re here, consider the short drive north to Chiwaukee Prairie.
Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin: Get out to see the big display of pale purple coneflower upon the gravelly kames of this beautiful preserve. Also, look for the white blossoms of white wild indigo and daisy fleabane along with newly blooming foxglove beardtongue and wild quinine. Ohio spiderwort is blooming in the mornings. And keep your eye out for fragrant pasture rose at the base of the southeast kame.
Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove: This is often the time in June when dense displays of pale purple coneflower combine with the floating flowers of scurfy pea to create a breathtaking wildflower shows. There might still be some blooms of Ohio spiderwort, with purple flowers that open around sunrise and soon shrivel away into a purple liquid. Very cool, huh? Click here to learn about spiderwort’s miraculous melting flowers. Porcupine grass is showing off its long miraculous seeds that drill themselves into the soil. Watch my video of the drilling seed. Look for the white cauliflower heads of wild quinine, golden black-eyed Susan, the occasional blooms of purple milkweed and pasture rose. And you may catch the start of orange butterfly weed. And finally, appreciate the large gorgeous leaves of prairie dock and compass plant that glow brightly under a backlit sun.
Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester: This is only a “Go!” for the morning hours to experience grand performances of of Ohio spiderwort that turn the prairie into a haze of blue. However, the flowers will disappear by afternoon, especially if it’s hot. Along your walk, you should also see the tall and fluffy purple meadow rue, white wild quinine, daisy fleabane, the occasional purple milkweed, and small displays of the heart-stopping yellow prairie sundrop. The textures and colors of the foliage adds to excitement, including the blue-greens of rattlesnake master and hundreds of prairie dock hearts.
Spears Woods in Willow Springs: This preserve can often present a wonderful morning show of Ohio spiderwort alongside alabaster expanses of foxglove beardtongue. Also adding to the whites are white wild indigo, daisy fleabane, and the start of wild quinine, which will soon put on a fine show of its own. Along the narrow prairie trail, you should also see the stunning purple milkweed, sprinklings of black-eyed Susan, and the glorious and happy yellow blossoms of prairie sundrop. Spears Woods is one of the most beautiful sites in the region, where your walk will take you through woodlands, prairies, and around gorgeous wetlands.
Middlefork Savanna in Lake Forest: This preserve consists of prairie, wetland, and oak savanna. Ohio spiderwort often puts on a fine show alongside nice ivory displays of foxglove beardtongue and remaining meadow anemone. And tall purple meadow rue, with fluffy yellowish flowers and purple stems, can sometimes be abundant about a quarter-mile north of the entrance. And false sunflower may be starting out.
Pembroke Savanna in Hopkins Park: If you want to see spiderwort, this is a great place. It’s almost everywhere. But as stated before, you need to get here early. The spiderwort is mixed in with a prolific display of daisy fleabane, along with some pasture rose and remaining hairy puccoon. And you’ll also find lots of porcupine grass.
“GO, IF YOU’RE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD”:
Somme Prairie Grove: If you live up north, and you don’t want head south, just visit Somme Prairie Grove to enjoy the greenery of the scenery with occasional flashes of floral color. This preserve has a nice feel to it. Throughout the preserve, you’ll find various lush textures and green hue from forbs, sedges, grasses, and bloomers-to-be, including the floppy hairdos of prairie dropseed, heart-shaped leaves of prairie dock, desert-looking rattlesnake master, and fern-looking leadplant with a flower head that’s just starting to turn into purple flowers. I’m about to list a bunch of flowers that you may see, but that doesn’t mean that there’s lots of floral color. At this time in June, the preserve may bel ninety-eight percent green. There’s a good chance that you’ll see the gorgeous yellow blossoms of prairie sundrop that will probably be the most showy plant at the moment. However, you may also discover a little bit of newly flowering orange butterfly weed and possibly a few remaining groups of red Indian paintbrush. Flickers of white come from foxglove beardtongue, wild quinine, white wild indigo, daisy fleabane, and the non-native ox-eye daisy. Keep your eyes open for the striking blooms of purple milkweed and the beautifully scented pasture rose. And finally, the golden flowers are may be blooming on a few compass plants.
Shoe Factory Road Prairie in Hoffman Estates: This preserve is officially located within the fence at the top of the hill. However, chances are that most of the action is taking place outside the official boundary of the preserve, where hundreds of pale purple coneflower bloom on the southern and western slopes. It’s probably mostly green inside the fence, where you’ll probably find porcupine grass, wild quinine, some early-blooming leadplant, a few prairie coreopsis, pink downy phlox, and short green milkweed. Throughout the preserve, you’ll find various lush textures and green hue from forbs, sedges, grasses, and bloomers-to-be, including the floppy hairdos of prairie dropseed, heart-shaped leaves of prairie dock, desert-looking rattlesnake master, and fern-looking leadplant. NOTE: Consider visiting Bluff Spring Fen while you’re here. It’s roughly in the neighborhood.
PLANT OF THE WEEK: FOXGLOVE BEARDTONGUE
The flowers of foxglove beardtongue resemble the snout of a dragon with a mouth that opens and closes as you squeeze the sides. This explains why it’s part of the snapdragon family. The flowers have no smell that I can detect. But come autumn, the seeds smell EXACTLY like vomit! Be still my heart.* In June, foxglove beardtongue blooms at Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin and many other preserves around the region.
The late-spring prairies at Spears Woods in Willow Springs often put on a big show of foxglove beardtongue.*
At Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin, Illinois, pearly blossoms of foxglove beardtongue catch the morning rays and a new day awakens—one as splendid and picturesque as any place on Earth.*
PHOTO SECTION
Prairie Coreopsis
In the second half of June atop the gravel hill of Shoe Factory Road Prairie grows deep-rooted leadplant and the happy yellow faces of prairie coreopsis that shine through the fog. You can find nice displays at Bluff Spring Fen, as well.*
Pale Purple Coneflower
Pale purple coneflower is favorite of mine. I just love how the petals droop downward. The plant has deep taproot, allowing it to survive drought and to thrive in gravel and dolomite limestone prairies. In the warm light of rising or setting sun, the flowers turn a stunning orange pink. Here at Belmont Prairie, I picked out this scene from a thousand coneflowers: a miniature, slow-motion rodeo that was taking place upon one prickly flower head. I watched as a tiny ant rode the back of a slinking inchworm.*
Sometimes the petals of pale purple coneflowers are colored pale white. Here, a combination of pink and white coneflowers populate the kame at Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin, Illinois.*
The predawn clouds take on the colors of the pale purple coneflower at this dolomite limestone prairie at Theodore Stone Preserve in Hodgkins, Illinois. You can usually find this majestic plant growing most prominently at Bluff Spring Fen, Belmont Prairie, and on the slopes outside the fence at Shoe Factory Road Prairie,*
Each day, Mother Nature chooses from an array of natural elements and then fashions them into new works of art. Most Junes at Belmont Prairie, dazzling mosaics like this go on exhibit. Assembled from over one hundred pale purple coneflowers, the final work, not the individual pieces, draws our attention.*
June brings pale purple coneflower, scurfy pea, and porcupine grass to Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove.*
The Melting Flowers of Ohio Spiderwort
In late May or early June, Ohio spiderwort begins a performance that will last a month or longer, starring a cluster of buds that releases only a couple of flowers each day. Each morning, a new bud opens into a delicate blue or purple flower. You may find spiderwort, right now, at Wolf Road Prairie, Belmont Prairie, Bluff Spring Fen, Pembroke Savanna, Powderhorn Prairie, Miller Woods, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, and more.
As the day wears on, each blossom begins to wither—then miraculously melts into a gem of royal jelly. An enzyme in the flower causes it to slowly decompose, and hot weather speeds up the process. It’s noon, and this flower is already shriveling.*
By midafternoon, this spiderwort bloom was melting blue between my fingertips. Do you notice my purple fingers? I was arrested earlier that morning.
This is the scene from Wolf Road Prairie, as blossoms of Ohio spiderwort open to meet the new day.*
At Miller Woods (Indiana Dunes National Park), spiderwort and ferns cover the side of the dunes.*
Porcupine Grass and its Miraculous Drilling Seeds
The seeds of porcupine grass are located at the tip of long sharp needles that fall off the plant and then slowly drill themselves into the soil. You can find porcupine grass at Belmont Prairie, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Bluff Spring Fen, and Powderhorn Marsh & Prairie.*
Watch my video of porcupine grass drilling itself into the soil right before your eyes!
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PORCUPINE GRASS.
Pasture Rose is a Flower that Must be Smelled:
Pasture rose grows here in the sand prairie at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve. But you can also find it at other preserves, including Bluff Spring Fen and Pembroke Savanna. The fragrance of pasture rose is transcendent—a spiritual experience.*
Hoary Puccoon
The golden blooms of hoary puccoon can be found, here, at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve and many other preserves around the region including Miller Woods, Powderhorn Marsh and Prairie, Wolf Road Prairie, Gensburg-Markham Prairie, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, and more.*
Purple Milkweed
The striking blooms of purple milkweed can be found in the best prairies and savannas, including Somme Prairie Grove and, here, at Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester, Illinois.*
June Grass
June grass and hoary puccoon glow in the morning light of the sand savanna at Pembroke Savanna Nature Preserve in Hopkins Park.*
Butterfly Weed
Coral hairstreak butterfly on butterfly weed at Gensburg-Markham Prairie in Markham, Illinois.*
Here at Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove, the bright orange flowers of butterfly weed makes a colorful statement. You can find this plant at several high-quality preserves, including Bluff Spring Fen, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, and Somme Prairie Grove.*
Butterfly weed blooms across the oak savanna at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve. You can also find it at many other preserves including, Somme Prairie Grove, Belmont Prairie, and Bluff Spring Fen.*
Indian Paintbrush
Here at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Indian paintbrush brightens up the foggy morning landscape. You can also find this flower at Gensburg-Markham Prairie and Somme Prairie Grove.*
Purple Meadow Rue Towers in Some Spring Prairies
In June, purple meadow rue towers above the blue morning blooms of Ohio spiderwort at Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester, Illinois.*
The Charismatic Foliage of Compass Plant & Prairie Dock
These are the large leaves of the prairie’s most iconic plants. The heart-shaped leaf is that of prairie dock, and the long-lobed leaf is its cousin compass plant.*
* Photo is representational and was not recorded this year. Bloom times vary from year to year.
If you find this website of Chicago nature information useful, please consider donating or purchasing my nationally-acclaimed book that celebrates all of the preserves featured on this website.
—Mike
Miraculous Spinning Seed of Porcupine Grass
Miraculous Spinning Seed of Porcupine Grass
Watch this video to experience the spinning seed of porcupine grass:
The bright-colored grasses crisscrossing the center of the frame are porcupine grass. Its long spear-like seeds miraculously drill themselves into the earth in a counter-clockwise motion that you can actually watch. See video above.
Porcupine grass (Hesperostipa spartea, previously known as Stipa spartea, for anyone who cares) is a particularly fun and interesting plant because of its fascinating seed. The common name refers to its long needles, which apparently resemble the spines of a porcupine, though I think the needle-like fruit best resembles a six- to seven-inch spear. The seed head represents the blade, and the long shaft is known as the awn. As the javelin-shaped fruit falls from the plant, the heavy seed head leads the way and embeds its sharp tip into the soil. As the awn dries, it twirls counter-clockwise until the shaft becomes so tightly wound that the implanted seed head begins to drill into the ground. Humidity and moisture have the opposite effect on the awn, causing it to uncoil, allowing rain or heavy dew to straighten it out. As the awn unwinds, the seed is left in place. The drilling process resumes when the environment dries out, and the cycle repeats until the seed is deposited as far as three to four inches beneath the surface, where the awn decays and the grain germinates. Seeds of porcupine grass can’t help but drill, so much so that they’ve been known to cause fatal wounds in animals. Hence, trust me when I tell you that putting them in your pocket is a big mistake.
The awn of this porcupine grass seed is tightly twisted, as you can see by the winding yellow and black stripes along its length. The pointy seed head of porcupine grass is bearded, with hairs pointing upward to keep it lodged in the soil. As a fun experiment, drop the entire fruit into a tall glass of water and remove it after it has mostly straightened out. Dab it dry with a towel, and then stick the seed head into a small pot of dirt or, if in a pinch, a dry sponge. Now watch. Soon, you’ll begin to see the awn wind like a very slow second hand of a backwards-running clock. See video above.
In June, you can find porcupine grass and their spear-like seeds at prairies and savannas across the Chicago region, including:
Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove, Illinois
Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin, Illinois
Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion, Illinois
-Mike
ChicagoNatureNow! ALERT
06-06-2024
Mike MacDonald’s
Chicago Nature NOW! Alert
June 6 – 16, 2024
“Weekly Wildflower Forecasts Featuring
Chicago’s Best Weekend Getaways & Nature Walks”
Plan the Best Nature Walks & Outdoor Getaways Around Chicago!
Don’t miss one beautiful moment.
Click here to subscribe to receive FREE wildflower forecasts!
Each week, we offer you opportunities to find peace during this trying time!
PLEASE DONATE IF WE’VE HELPED YOU FIND SOLACE IN NATURE.
Donate to Our GoFundMe Campaign
Get outside to experience magnificent flower shows
in our showcase prairies and savannas.
WILDFLOWER FORECAST & HIGHLIGHTS to help you plan your outdoor adventures into Chicago’s Woodlands:
Around this time, magnificent shows of sand coreopsis and spiderwort are possible. Yet, there are other performances going on, like that of the melting blossoms of Ohio spiderwort! But nature isn’t just about flowers. It’s about the experience. Explore and discover a preserve from the list below. Be open to nature’s unexpected gifts, whether it be a colorful, awe-inspiring bloom, the mysterious squeak of two rubbing trees mimicking the cry of a baby animal, or the life-affirming odor of skunk cabbage. All of these things will open up your life to a world of wonder and intrigue.
Like last week, pay attention to the magnificent display of sand coreopsis at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion. This is one of those “can’t miss” experiences that actually happen quite a lot around Chicago. The performance is so dramatic that my picture of it was featured in the world famous 2020 Sierra Club Wilderness Wall Calendar (see Photo Section).
The flamboyant pale purple coneflower (our first Plant of the Week) is another performance to look for. The best shows take place at Bluff Spring Fen, Belmont Prairie, on the slopes outside the fence at Shoe Factory Road Prairie, and to some extent at Theodore Stone Preserve and Middlefork Savanna.
In June, the melting flower of Ohio spiderwort stages a monthlong show at various savannas and prairies throughout the region. The flower dissolves soon after it first opens. Yes, you read that correctly. Click here to read my poem about it. And if a flower that turns to liquid isn’t weird enough, you can now find porcupine grass (our second Plant of the Week) with a seed that drills itself into the soil. Watch my real-time video of the drilling seed below. Look for this grass and its seeds at Belmont Prairie, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Bluff Spring Fen, Pembroke Savanna, Miller Woods, and Powderhorn Marsh & Prairie. If you visit Pembroke Savanna or Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, look for the plumes of June grass that glow brightly in the spotlight of a low sun.
The pearly trumpet-shaped flowers of foxglove beardtongue should also be starting in our local prairies, especially at Spears Woods and Bluff Spring Fenn. I love this plant because, in the fall, their seeds smell exactly, and I mean “exactly,” like vomit! In stark contrast, you can now experience a most wonderful fragrance by dropping to your knees and lowering your nose into the pink blossom of pasture rose. Over several weeks in late spring, it blooms barely inches from the ground. During that time, whenever we’re together, I partake in a sacred ritual. I drop to my knees and bow in reverence, nose to petal. However, last year, I didn’t notice the poison ivy growing right next to the flower. I immediately felt a tingling on my upper lip, but it was too late. It was a small price to pay for the many years of delight that this flower has brought me.
SPRING WILDFLOWER GETAWAYS AROUND CHICAGO:
I’ve ranked the preserves on this week’s list based on the information predicted by my one-of-a-kind propriety database of wildflowers blooming events, starting out with the best or “Go!” The “Go, if You’re in the Neighborhood” section is for sites that are worth visiting if you can’t make it to the top-rated preserves.
LIKELY, THIS WEEK’S BEST CHOICES (“GO!”):
Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion: The spectacular, sunny show of golden sand coreopsis could now be underway. Though you can find them shining under the trees, breathtaking expanses of the flower are commonly found in the sun-soaked sand prairie to the east. Blooming alongside the coreopsis, you may see the tiny white sparkles of sand cress and sandwort, the fluffy white plumes of New Jersey tea, and lots of porcupine grass. In the shade of the black oak savanna, downy phlox and pasture rose add beautiful splashes of pink amidst the fading blue-and-white blossoms of wild lupine, and three-petaled blossoms of Ohio spiderwort that turn to a purple liquid in the heat of the day. Along your trek, look for hoary puccoon, hairy puccoon, and, if you’re observant, Indian paintbrush. While you’re here, consider the short drive north to Chiwaukee Prairie.
Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin: This is often the time to experience the breathtaking displays of pale purple coneflower. Also, look for the white blossoms of white wild indigo and daisy fleabane along with newly blooming foxglove beardtongue and wild quinine. Ohio spiderwort is blooming in the mornings. And keep your eye out for fragrant pasture rose at the base of the southeast kame.
Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester: This is only a “Go!” for the morning hours to experience the wonderful performance of Ohio spiderwort. However, the blue flowers will be gone by afternoon, especially if it’s hot. Along the way, you should also see the tall and fluffy purple meadow rue, white wild quinine, daisy fleabane, the occasional purple milkweed, and small displays of the heart-stopping yellow prairie sundrop. The textures and colors of the foliage adds to excitement, including the blue-greens of rattlesnake master and hundreds of prairie dock hearts.
Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove: Like Wolf Road Prairie, this preserve should be a “Go!” during the morning hours to see the ephemeral blooms of Ohio spiderwort. Their purple flowers open around sunrise, but only last a few hours until they shrivel away into a purple liquid. Very cool, huh? Click here to learn about spiderwort’s miraculous melting flowers. The fantastic show of pale purple coneflower and scurfy pea may also be taking place. Porcupine grass may be showing its long miraculous seeds that drill themselves into the soil. Again, “very cool!” Watch the seed drill in my video. And look for the gorgeous leaves of prairie dock and compass plant that glow brightly when the sun is behind them.
Spears Woods: This preserve can often present a wonderful show in the mornings of Ohio spiderwort. Joining these melting blue blossoms may be the many whites of foxglove beardtongue, white wild indigo, and dramatic displays of wild quinine throughout the prairies. Along the narrow prairie trail, you should also see the stunning purple milkweed, sprinklings of black-eyed Susan, and the glorious and happy yellow blossoms of prairie sundrop. Thanks to spring’s prescribed fire, the prairie is green and clean, uncluttered by last year’s tan skeletons. Spears Woods is one of the most beautiful sites in the region, where your walk will take you through woodlands, prairies, and wetlands.
Middlefork Savanna in Lake Forest: This preserve consists of prairie, wetland, and oak savanna. Check for sparkling expanses of white-petaled meadow anemone along with blue Ohio spiderwort.m And the tall purple meadow rue with fluffy yellowish flowers and purple stems can sometimes be abundant about a quarter-mile north of the entrance.
Pembroke Savanna in Hopkins Park: Ohio spiderwort should be blooming throughout the preserve along with nice expanses of nice displays of daisy fleabane with golden highlights of hairy puccoon. The intoxicating pasture rose may also be flowering alongside porcupine grass and June grass that glows in the low sunlight.
“GO, IF YOU’RE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD”:
Somme Prairie Grove in Northbrook: This preserve has a lush feel to it. In the woodland, you may still find some yellow flat-topped umbrellas of golden Alexander along with the occasional flat-topped white flowers of cow parsnip. The latter is a little toxic and can irritate the skin. So, no touchy-feely with this plant. You’ll find a variety of flowering species in bloom under the sun, possibly golden balsam ragwort, ivory buttons of bastard toadflax, fading shooting star, the delicately elegant stout blue-eyed grass, and the heart-stopping red Indian paintbrush. Wow! Along the way, look for any remaining creamy blooms of cream wild indigo. And don’t forget to appreciate the lush green textures that come from the foliage of forbs, sedges, and grasses, including the floppy hairdos of prairie dropseed and the heart-shaped leaves of prairie dock. should be in the wet areas. The flowering cauliflower heads of wild quinine may now be blooming along with a smattering of white wild indigo. By this time in June, the wetland blooms of blue flag iris and yellow water buttercup may now be gone.
Miller Woods (at Paul H. Douglas Environmental Center for Education) in Indiana Dunes National Park: The preserve is large and provides a nice long hike to the beach. The most prominent blooming flower will probably be both hairy puccoon and spiderwort. Along your hike, you’ll see two-flowered Cynthia, wild columbine, pasture rose, downy phlox, and energetic sprays of acrobatic bracken fern. And then there are the beavers! See photo and caption below to learn where to find them.
Shoe Factory Road Prairie in Hoffman Estates: Though not officially a hill prairie, this gravelly prairie on a hill gets a lot of sun and also many wildflowers. The next big show comes from prairie coreopsis in mid- to late June. Right now, you might find some downy phlox , porcupine grass, and some remaining patches of golden Alexander and hoary puccoon. Throughout the preserve, you’ll find various lush textures and green hue from forbs, sedges, grasses, and bloomers-to-be, including the floppy hairdos of prairie dropseed, heart-shaped leaves of prairie dock, desert-looking rattlesnake master, and fern-looking leadplant.
PLANTS OF THE WEEK: PALE PURPLE CONEFLOWER & PORCUPINE GRASS
Pale Purple Coneflower
Pale purple coneflower is favorite of mine. I just love how the petals droop downward. The plant has deep taproot, allowing it to survive drought and to thrive in gravel and dolomite limestone prairies. In the warm light of rising or setting sun, the flowers turn a stunning orange pink. Here at Belmont Prairie, I picked out this scene from a thousand coneflowers: a miniature, slow-motion rodeo that was taking place upon one prickly flower head. I watched as a tiny ant rode the back of a slinking inchworm.*
Sometimes the petals of pale purple coneflowers are colored pale white. Here, a combination of pink and white coneflowers populate the kame at Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin, Illinois.*
The predawn clouds take on the colors of the pale purple coneflower at this dolomite limestone prairie at Theodore Stone Preserve in Hodgkins, Illinois. You can usually find this majestic plant growing most prominently at Bluff Spring Fen, Belmont Prairie, and on the slopes outside the fence at Shoe Factory Road Prairie,*
Each day, Mother Nature chooses from an array of natural elements and then fashions them into new works of art. Most Junes at Belmont Prairie, dazzling mosaics like this go on exhibit. Assembled from over one hundred pale purple coneflowers, the final work, not the individual pieces, draws our attention.*
June brings pale purple coneflower, scurfy pea, and porcupine grass to Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove.*
Porcupine Grass and its Miraculous Drilling Seeds
The seeds of porcupine grass are located at the tip of long sharp needles that fall off the plant and then slowly drill themselves into the soil. You can find porcupine grass at Belmont Prairie, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Bluff Spring Fen, and Powderhorn Marsh & Prairie.*
Watch my video of porcupine grass drilling itself into the soil right before your eyes!
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PORCUPINE GRASS.
PHOTO SECTION
Sand Coreopsis
The showy golden sand coreopsis is not a common plant in Illinois, but it looks familiar because we often see cultivated double-flowered and bicolored versions in our neighbors’ gardens . It’s easy to grow and can spread fast. This image of the world class display of and coreopsis was featured in the 2022 Sierra Club Wilderness Wall Calendar. Here, blossoms of sand coreopsis spread their golden joy along the banks of the Dead River at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion.*
The turning earth is the dimmer switch, gradually recasting every dim dewdrop, petal, and blade of grass into a galaxy of blazing bulbs and lustrous lamps. On this late-spring morning at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, blooms of golden sand coreopsis and New Jersey tea are set aglow alongside shimmering spider webs that cling to last year’s grasses.*
The Melting Flowers of Ohio Spiderwort
In late May or early June, Ohio spiderwort begins a performance that will last a month or longer, starring a cluster of buds that releases only a couple of flowers each day. Each morning, a new bud opens into a delicate blue or purple flower. You may find spiderwort, right now, at Wolf Road Prairie, Belmont Prairie, Bluff Spring Fen, Pembroke Savanna, Powderhorn Prairie, Miller Woods, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, and more.
As the day wears on, each blossom begins to wither—then miraculously melts into a gem of royal jelly. An enzyme in the flower causes it to slowly decompose, and hot weather speeds up the process. It’s noon, and this flower is already shriveling.*
By mid-afternoon, this spiderwort bloom was melting blue between my fingertips. Do you notice my purple fingers? I was arrested earlier that morning.
This is the scene from Wolf Road Prairie, as blossoms of Ohio spiderwort open to meet the new day.*
At Miller Woods (Indiana Dunes National Park), spiderwort and ferns cover the side of the dunes.*
Pasture Rose is a Flower that Must be Smelled
Pasture rose grows here in the sand prairie at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve. But you can also find it at other preserves, including Bluff Spring Fen and Pembroke Savanna. The fragrance of pasture rose is transcendent—a spiritual experience.*
Foxglove Beardtongue (and its contribution to the wonderful world of scent)
The flowers of foxglove beardtongue resemble the snout of a dragon with a mouth that opens and closes as you squeeze the sides. This explains why it’s part of the snapdragon family. The flowers have no smell that I can detect. But come autumn, the seeds smell EXACTLY like vomit! Be still my heart.* In June, foxglove beardtongue blooms at Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin and many other preserves around the region.
The spring prairie at Spears Woods in Willow Springs puts on a show of foxglove beardtongue.*
At Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin, Illinois, pearl blossoms of foxglove beardtongue catch the morning rays and a new day awakens—one as splendid and picturesque as any place on Earth.*
June Grass
June grass and hoary puccoon glow in the morning light of the sand savanna at Pembroke Savanna Nature Preserve in Hopkins Park.*
Hoary Puccoon
The golden blooms of hoary puccoon can be found, here, at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve and many other preserves around the region including Miller Woods, Powderhorn Marsh and Prairie, Wolf Road Prairie, Gensburg-Markham Prairie, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, and more.*
Blue Flag Iris
Blue flag iris can bloom in the regions better wetlands in late May and early June, including here at Spears Woods in Willow Springs.*
Blue flag iris blooms in the late-May wetland at Spears Woods in Willow Springs. But you can see it in good wetlands throughout the area.*
Golden Alexander
Golden Alexander of species Zizia aurea appears to have large flowers, but what you are seeing is a cluster of miniature one-eighth-inch blooms. The pollen and nectar of the flowers benefit insects with short mouthparts. The plant grows in both high-quality and degraded habitats. The golden blooms can be found brightening up the panoramas at preserves that include Somme Prairie Grove, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, Wolf Road Prairie, and Chiwaukee Prairie.*
In May at Chiwaukee Prairie, golden Alexander blooms amidst the heart-shaped leaves of prairie dock.*
Green glow describes leaves that glow a bright green from sunlight shining through them. Here, we see a special kind of green glow that results in a shadow play, as sunlight shines through a translucent leaf of prairie dock, as golden Alexander casts its distinctive silhouette.*
Indian Paintbrush
Here at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Indian paintbrush brightens up the foggy morning landscape. You can also find this flower at Gensburg-Markham Prairie and Somme Prairie Grove.*
Wild Columbine
Wild columbine reflects the afternoon light at Miller Woods in Indiana Dunes National Park.
Stout Blue-Eyed Grass
The sublime blooms of stout blue-eye grass may now be aflower at Pembroke Savanna in Hopkins Park, Illinois. And they bloom at these other preserves: Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Chiwaukee Prairie, Miller Woods, and Somme Prairie Grove.*
The Charismatic Foliage of Compass Plant & Prairie Dock
These are the large leaves of the prairie’s most iconic plants. The heart-shaped leaf is that of prairie dock, and the long-lobed leaf is its cousin compass plant.
* Photo is representational and was not recorded this year. Bloom times vary from year to year.
If you find this website of Chicago nature information useful, please consider donating or purchasing my nationally-acclaimed book that celebrates all of the preserves featured on this website.
—Mike
ChicagoNatureNow! ALERT
05-27-2024
Mike MacDonald’s
Chicago Nature NOW! Alert
May 27 – June 5, 2024
“Weekly Wildflower Forecasts Featuring
Chicago’s Best Weekend Getaways & Nature Trips”
Plan the Best Nature Walks & Getaways Around Chicago!
Don’t miss one beautiful moment.
Click here to subscribe to receive FREE wildflower forecasts!
Each week, we offer you opportunities to find peace during this trying time!
PLEASE DONATE IF WE’VE HELPED YOU FIND SOLACE IN NATURE.
Donate to Our GoFundMe Campaign
Get outside to experience magnificent flower shows
in our showcase prairies and savannas.
WILDFLOWER FORECAST & HIGHLIGHTS to help you plan your outdoor adventures into Chicago’s Woodlands:
Around this time, sand coreopsis often puts on the best flower show. But there are many other performances to see. But nature isn’t just about flowers. It’s about the experience. Explore and discover a preserve from the list below. Be open to nature’s unexpected gifts, whether it be a colorful, awe-inspiring bloom, the mysterious squeak of two rubbing trees mimicking the cry of a baby animal, or the life-affirming odor of skunk cabbage. All of these things will open up your life to a world of wonder and intrigue.
As we enter June, my attention turns to the magnificent display of sand coreopsis (one of our Plants of the Week) at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion. This is one of those “can’t miss” experiences that actually happen quite a lot around Chicago. The performance is so dramatic that my picture of it was featured in the world famous 2020 Sierra Club Wilderness Wall Calendar (see Photo Section). Our second Plant of the Week is the melting flower of Ohio spiderwort that puts on a monthlong show at various savannas and prairies throughout the region. The flower actually dissolves soon after it first opens. Yes, you read that correctly. Click here to read my poem about it. And the pearly trumpet-shaped flowers of foxglove beardtongue may also be starting. I love this plant because, in the fall, their seeds smell exactly, and I mean “exactly,” like vomit!
The breathtaking shows of shooting star and wild lupine may still be happening, but they usually peak in late of May. At Chiwaukee Prairie, shooting star can cover the grassland pink with touches of yellow star grass, birdfoot violet, and golden Alexander. It’s absolutely spectacular. You can also experience their celestial beauty at Fermilab Prairie, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, and Somme Prairie Grove. At Miller Woods at Indiana Dunes National Park, the show of wild lupine is unbelievably beautiful, as the blues and purples drape across the rolling dunes sprinkled with golden hoary puccoon. Wow! Within the national park, they also bloom at Tolleston Dunes, and West Beach, but the blue-and-white blossom also shows up at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve and Chiwaukee Prairie.
The aforementioned blossoms of hoary puccoon may be found in our prairies and oak savannas, including Somme Prairie Grove, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, Pembroke Savanna, Belmont Prairie, Miller Woods, and usually a little later at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve and Chiwaukee Prairie. And the sparkling sprays of golden Alexander put on nice performances at Shoe Factory Road Prairie and Chiwaukee Prairie.
SPRING WILDFLOWER GETAWAYS AROUND CHICAGO:
I’ve ranked the preserves on this week’s list based on the information predicted by my one-of-a-kind propriety database of wildflowers blooming events, starting out with the best or “Go!” The “Go, if You’re in the Neighborhood” section is for sites that are worth visiting if you can’t make it to the top-rated preserves.
LIKELY, THIS WEEK’S BEST CHOICES (“GO!”):
Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion: The happy, sunny show of golden sand coreopsis may be underway under the open sky of the sand prairie. It’s a sight to remember. You may also find shows of blue-and-white wild lupine, golden hoary puccoon, and bubble gum pink downy phlox. For the best performances, take the wide gravel trail (Dunes Trail) that heads south from the parking lot. In open shade of the black oak savanna, the buttery yellow blooms of western goat’s beard are may be open for business along with the three-petaled blossoms of Ohio spiderwort, but the purpleish blue flower doesn’t last long. Each morning, a few buds open to reveal fresh flowers that dissolve in the heat of the day into drops of purple liquid. Along the way, you should also find the delightful blue-eyed grass, little white sparkles of sand cress and sandwort, and the red glow of red Indian paintbrush. And while you’re here, consider visiting nearby Chiwaukee Prairie.
Miller Woods in Indiana Dunes National Park: The show of wild lupine may still be blooming in combination with the golds of hoary puccoon. Adding to the mix should be the blue hues of blue-eyed grass, red-and-yellow blossoms of wild columbine, golden tones of two-flowered Cynthia, and flashes of white from wild strawberry and bastard toadflax. Keep your eyes open, and you may even find the gorgeous red Indian paintbrush. While you’re here, take the trail to the lakeshore. Along the way, the path crosses a wide gravel path that goes straight east-west. Head west, and you’ll find beaver lodges and activity. If you arrive early or remain late in the day, chances are you’ll be greeted by a beaver slapping its flat tail against the water to alert others of its kind about that human lurking about. This abandoned railroad right-of-way isn’t as intimate as the official narrow trail, but I like the views better. After your hike, consider checking out the lupines at Tolleston Dunes and West Beach. NOTE: The trail can be covered in water in some areas. We recommend high boots. Or just slosh on through!
Somme Prairie Grove in Northbrook: This preserve has a nice feel to it. In the woodland, you may experience beautiful displays of the flat-topped umbrellas of golden Alexander alongside the occasional flat-topped white flowers of cow parsnip. The latter is a little toxic and can irritate the skin. So, no touchy-feely with this plant. You’ll find a variety of flowering species in bloom under the sun, including golden balsam ragwort, shooting star, ivory buttons of bastard toadflax, the occasional shooting star, the delicately elegant stout blue-eyed grass, and the heart-stopping red Indian paintbrush. Wow! Along the way, look for the beautiful creamy blooms of cream wild indigo. And don’t forget to appreciate the lush green textures that come from the foliage of forbs, sedges, and grasses, including the floppy hairdos of prairie dropseed and the heart-shaped leaves of prairie dock. This is also the time of year to experience blue flag iris and yellow water buttercup in the wet areas.
Chiwaukee Prairie in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin: This prairie-by-the-lake puts on a stunning show of shooting star that takes place sometime between mid-May and early June, joined by a colorful cast: hoary puccoon, golden Alexander, wood betony, yellow star grass, blue-eyed grass, birdfoot violet, and wild strawberry. You may also find some wild lupine along the edges. And the occasional fluffy seed heads of common cottongrass help to brighten up the wetlands. If you’re lucky, you just may find patches of yellow Indian paintbrush. While you’re here, you should definitely visit Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion, which is easily provides the best nature experience in the region.
Shoe Factory Road Prairie in Hoffman Estates: Though not officially a hill prairie, this gravelly prairie on a hill gets a lot of sun and also a lot of wildflowers. This is usually a good time to see large patches of golden Alexander and hoary puccoon alongside a smattering of pink downy phlox growing, and any remaining blooms of wood betony, shooting star, birdfoot violet, and blue-eyed grass.
Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester: Late May usually starts the monthlong performance of Ohio spiderwort along the southeast edge of the preserve near Wolf Road. However, those flowers will be gone by afternoon, especially if it’s hot. In the prairie, you’ll also find a small mix of other flowers including hoary puccoon, golden Alexander, downy phlox and daisy fleabane. I particularly love the emerging tones and textures of prairie dock, rattlesnake master, and compass plant.
Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove: I’m recommending this preserve for a morning visit to see the blooms of the ephemeral Ohio spiderwort. Throughout the month of June, the blue flowers open around sunrise, but only last a few hours until they shrivel away into a purple liquid. Very cool! Click here to read my poem about spiderwort’s miraculous melting flowers.
Middlefork Savanna in Lake Forest: This preserve consists of prairie, wetland, and oak savanna. Check for sparkling expanses of white-petaled meadow anemone along with blue Ohio spiderwort.m And the tall purple meadow rue with fluffy yellowish flowers and purple stems can sometimes be abundant about a quarter-mile north of the entrance.
Pembroke Savanna in Hopkins Park: Ohio spiderwort should be blooming throughout the preserve along with nice expanses of nice displays of daisy fleabane with golden highlights of hairy puccoon. The intoxicating pasture rose may also be flowering alongside porcupine grass and June grass that glows in the low sunlight.
“GO, IF YOU’RE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD”:
Fermilab Prairie in Batavia: In early June, the prairie is often aflower with golden Alexander and lush with the foliage of future blooms, like prairie dock and compass plant.
Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin: The most prolific blooms may be happening under the sun with shining displays of balsam ragwort and golden Alexander. Then add to that the brilliant yellow blossoms of hairy puccoon. You may also find ivory tones from bastard toadflax in the prairie and fluffy plumes of common cottongrass in the soggy areas.
PLANTS OF THE WEEK (Sand Coreopsis & Ohio Spiderwort):
Sand Coreopsis:
The showy golden sand coreopsis is not a common plant in Illinois, but it looks familiar because we often see cultivated double-flowered and bicolored versions in our neighbors’ gardens . It’s easy to grow and can spread fast. This image of the world class display of sand coreopsis was featured in the 2022 Sierra Club Wilderness Wall Calendar. Here, blossoms of sand coreopsis spread their golden joy along the banks of the Dead River at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion.*
The turning earth is the dimmer switch, gradually recasting every dim dewdrop, petal, and blade of grass into a galaxy of blazing bulbs and lustrous lamps. On this late-spring morning at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, blooms of golden sand coreopsis and New Jersey tea are set aglow alongside shimmering spider webs that cling to last year’s grasses.*
The Melting Flowers of Ohio Spiderwort:
In late May or early June, Ohio spiderwort begins a performance that will last a month or longer, starring a cluster of buds that releases only a couple of flowers each day. Each morning, a new bud opens into a delicate blue or purple flower. You may find spiderwort, right now, at Wolf Road Prairie, Belmont Prairie, Bluff Spring Fen, Pembroke Savanna, Powderhorn Prairie, Miller Woods, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, and more.
As the day wears on, each blossom begins to wither—then miraculously melts into a gem of royal jelly. An enzyme in the flower causes it to slowly decompose, and hot weather speeds up the process. It’s noon, and this flower is already shriveling.*
By midafternoon, this spiderwort bloom was melting blue between my fingertips. Do you notice my purple fingers? I was arrested earlier that morning.
This is the scene from Wolf Road Prairie, as blossoms of Ohio spiderwort open to meet the new day.*
At Miller Woods (Indiana Dunes National Park), spiderwort and ferns cover the side of the dunes.*
PHOTO SECTION
Shooting Star:
In May, the beautiful blooms of shooting star can be found in prairies and woodlands, alike. The shape of the flower belies its celestial name, with five petals that trail behind its pointed tip. This springtime plant favors soil that is moist to modestly dry, but can thrive on the sunny slopes if there’s enough rain. It seems to like slopes because it doesn’t get as much competition there. The plant is also sensitive to dead vegetation that can smother it, which is why it also favors the occasional fire.*
On this May evening, shooting stars glowed in the final light of day at Fermilab Prairie in Batavia, Illinois.*
Shooting Star at Chiwaukee Prairie:
Later in May and sometimes into early June, Chiwaukee Prairie offers a spectacular display of shooting star.*
Shooting star, hoary puccoon, yellow star grass, and others are blooming in profusion at Chiwaukee Prairie in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin. You can also find the plant at Black Partridge Woods, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, Fermilab Prairie, and Somme Prairie Grove.*
Wild Lupine:
Wild lupine, of species Lupinus perennis, seems to love poor soil. However, in ancient times, it was believed that the lupines were creating the bad soil by wolfing down the nutrients. Hence, the name comes from the Greek word “Lupus,” or “wolf.” In reality, lupine brings nutrients to the soil just like other legumes, such as leadplant, white wild indigo, scurfy pea, and purple prairie clover. Around Chicago, lupine can be found growing in sandy soil under the trees of black oak savannas, including Miller Woods, part of Indiana Dunes National Park and Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion.
Atop this spring dune thrives wild lupine at Miller Woods, part of Indiana Dunes National Park in Gary, Indiana. While you’re in the park, you also can find them at Tolleston Dunes, and West Beach.*
Biodiversity is about the many, not the few. Here, it’s springtime in the savanna at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, where blue lupines share precious space with hoary puccoon. But, as the season advances, both will fade, making room for an array of other species, in a cycle where each has its time in the sun and then returns to the soil.*
An exploration into the inner world of wild lupine.
Meadow Anemone
Meadow anemone and common milkweed at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion, Illinois.*
Hoary Puccoon:
The golden blooms of hoary puccoon can be found, here, at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve and many other preserves around the region including Miller Woods, Powderhorn Marsh and Prairie, Wolf Road Prairie, Gensburg-Markham Prairie, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, and more.*
At Shoe Factory Road Prairie, hoary puccoon and birdfoot violet glow in the morning light at this prairie-on-a-hill.*
Blue Flag Iris starts to bloom in the late May:
Blue flag iris is a wetland plant that grows in standing mud or standing water. Here, a phalanx of blue flag iris towered over the spring wetland at Somme Prairie Grove in Northbrook.*
Blue flag iris blooms in the late-May wetland at Spears Woods in Willow Springs. But you can see it in good wetlands throughout the area.*
Golden Alexander:
Golden Alexander of species Zizia aurea appears to have large flowers, but what you are seeing is a cluster of miniature one-eighth-inch blooms. The pollen and nectar of the flowers benefit insects with short mouthparts. The plant grows in both high-quality and degraded habitats. The golden blooms can be found brightening up the panoramas at preserves that include Somme Prairie Grove, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, Wolf Road Prairie, and Chiwaukee Prairie.*
In May at Chiwaukee Prairie, golden Alexander blooms amidst the heart-shaped leaves of prairie dock.*
Green glow describes leaves that glow a bright green from sunlight shining through them. Here, we see a special kind of green glow that results in a shadow play, as sunlight shines through a translucent leaf of prairie dock, as golden Alexander casts its distinctive silhouette.*
Foxglove Beardtongue usually begins its bloom in early to mid-June:
At Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin, Illinois, pearl blossoms of foxglove beardtongue catch the morning rays and a new day awakens—one as splendid and picturesque as any place on Earth.*
In June, foxglove beardtongue blooms at Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin and many other preserves. In the fall, the seeds smell EXACTLY like vomit! Be still my heart.*
Wild Columbine:
Wild columbine reflects the afternoon light at Miller Woods in Indiana Dunes National Park.
Indian Paintbrush:
Here at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Indian paintbrush brightens up the foggy morning landscape. You can also find this flower at Gensburg-Markham Prairie and Somme Prairie Grove.*
Stout Blue-Eyed Grass
The sublime blooms of stout blue-eye grass may now be aflower at Pembroke Savanna in Hopkins Park, Illinois. And they bloom at these other preserves: Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Chiwaukee Prairie, Miller Woods, and Somme Prairie Grove.*
* Photo is representational and was not recorded this year. Bloom times vary from year to year.
If you find this website of Chicago nature information useful, please consider donating or purchasing my nationally-acclaimed book that celebrates all of the preserves featured on this website.
—Mike
Pictures & Poetry: The Miraculous Melting Blooms of Ohio Spiderwort
Pictures & Poetry:
The Miraculous Melting Blooms of Ohio Spiderwort
In late May or early June, Ohio spiderwort
begins a performance that will last a month or longer, starring a cluster of buds that releases only a couple of flowers each day. Each morning, a new bud opens into a delicate blue or purple flower.
As the day wears on, each blossom begins to wither—then miraculously melts into a gem of royal jelly. An enzyme in the flower causes it to slowly decompose, and hot weather speeds up the process. It’s noon, and this flower is already shriveling.
By midafternoon, this spiderwort blossom was melting blue between my fingertips. Do you notice my purple fingers? I was arrested earlier that morning.
Now that you know a little something about spiderwort, here’s my poem about the plant from my book, My Journey into the Wilds of Chicago: A Celebration of Chicagoland’s Startling Natural Wonders:
Spiderwort is a prairie flower, as ethereal as it is enduring.
The name is a consequence of its long slender leaves that break suddenly downward,
mimicking the legs of a crouching spider.
It rises at the end of May in the prairies and savannas, in a universe all its own,
a small galaxy of blue starlike flowers that form the constellation of the Crouching Spider.
Unlike celestial bodies that survive in the billions, for billions of years,
the stars of the Crouching Spider number only a few and shimmer for just a few hours.
Coinciding with Earth’s star, they emerge, not with a big bang,
but slowly materialize from a golden hot center into three purple points.
As the sun grows high in the sky,
they gradually collapse into deep blue planets.
Yet tomorrow morning, and for thirty or more turns of Earth,
you may gaze into the prairie universe to witness the reemergence of the Crouching Spider
and the creation of new worlds.
You can find spiderwort at many preserves around Chicago, including:
Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove, Illinois
Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin, Illinois
Chiwaukee Prairie in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Fermilab Prairie in Batavia, Illinois
Gensburg-Markham Prairie in Markham, Illinois
Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion, Illinois
Kickapoo Woods & Prairie in Riverdale, Illinois
Middlefork Savanna in Lake Forest, Illinois
Pembroke Savanna in Hopkins Park, Illinois
Powderhorn Prairie in Chicago, Illinois
Somme Prairie Grove in Northbrook, Illinois
Theodore Stone Preserve in Hodgkins, Illinois
Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester, Illinois
– Mike
ChicagoNatureNow! ALERT
05-16-2024
Mike MacDonald’s
Chicago Nature NOW! Alert
May 16 – May 24, 2024
“Weekly Wildflower Forecasts Featuring
Chicago’s Best Weekend Getaways & Nature Trips”
Plan the Best Nature Walks & Getaways Around Chicago!
Don’t miss one beautiful moment.
Click here to subscribe to receive FREE wildflower forecasts!
Each week, we offer you opportunities to find peace during this trying time!
PLEASE DONATE IF WE’VE HELPED YOU FIND SOLACE IN NATURE.
Donate to Our GoFundMe Campaign
Be on the lookout for spectacular flower shows
taking place at our showcase prairies, savannas, and woodlands.
WILDFLOWER FORECAST & HIGHLIGHTS to help you plan your outdoor adventures into Chicago’s Woodlands:
The magnificent world-class flowers shows of wild lupine and shooting star usually take place around this time. But nature isn’t just about flowers. It’s about the experience. Explore and discover a preserve from the list below. Be open to nature’s unexpected gifts, whether it be a colorful, awe-inspiring bloom, the mysterious squeak of two rubbing trees mimicking the cry of a baby animal, or the life-affirming odor of skunk cabbage. All of these things will open up your life to a world of wonder and intrigue.
At this time in May, the big shows often come from shooting star and wild lupine, our Plants of the Week. At Chiwaukee Prairie, shooting star covers the grassland pink with touches of yellow star grass, birdfoot violet, and golden Alexander. It’s absolutely spectacular. You can also experience their celestial beauty at Fermilab Prairie, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, and Somme Prairie Grove. At Miller Woods at Indiana Dunes National Park, the show of wild lupine is unbelievably beautiful, as the blues and purples drape across the rolling dunes sprinkled with golden hoary puccoon. Wow! Within the national park, they also bloom at Tolleston Dunes, and West Beach, but the blue-and-white blossom also shows up at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve and Chiwaukee Prairie.
The aforementioned blossoms of hoary puccoon may be found in our prairies and oak savannas, including Somme Prairie Grove, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, Pembroke Savanna, Belmont Prairie, Miller Woods, and usually a little later at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve and Chiwaukee Prairie. And the sparkling sprays of golden Alexander put on nice performances at Shoe Factory Road Prairie and Chiwaukee Prairie.
The ephemeral melting blooms of Ohio spiderwort often get their start in late May. Click here to read my poem about it. They melt hearts around Chicago as they begin their monthlong show. You can find them at many preserves around the area.
It still may be possible to see woodland shows of woodland phlox and wild geranium alongside hidden blossoms of mayapple. The large waxy white blossoms of mayapple should be flowering by now. To find them, look beneath the umbrellas of two-leafed plants. And the sublime light-blue plumes of wild hyacinth are usually aflower at this time in some of our savannas and woodlands, including Wolf Road Prairie, Black Partridge Woods, and Oldfield Oaks in Darien.
In late May and early June, look for a fantastic show of sand coreopsis in the sand prairie at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion. This performance of coreopsis is so dramatic that my picture of it was featured in the world famous 2020 Sierra Club Wilderness Wall Calendar (see photo section).
SPRING WILDFLOWER GETAWAYS AROUND CHICAGO:
I’ve ranked the preserves on this week’s list based on the information predicted by my one-of-a-kind propriety database of wildflowers blooming events, starting out with the best or “Go!” The “Go, if You’re in the Neighborhood” section is for sites that are worth visiting if you can’t make it to the top-rated preserves.
LIKELY, THIS WEEK’S BEST CHOICES (“GO!”):
Miller Woods in Indiana Dunes National Park: The spectacular show of wild lupine can reach peak bloom somewhere from mid to late May. It’s a must-see event. Adding the to the blue hues are the sublime blue-eyed grass and birdfoot violet. The vibrant yellow blooms of hoary puccoon add a golden sparkle to the savanna as the buttery blooms of wood betony end their run. The red-and-yellow blossoms of wild columbine float above the understory of the savanna. And flashes of white come from wild strawberry and bastard toadflax. Keep your eyes open, and you may even find the gorgeous red Indian paintbrush. While you’re here, take the trail to the lakeshore. Along the way, the path crosses a wide gravel path that goes straight east-west. Head west, and you’ll find beaver lodges and activity. If you arrive early or remain late in the day, chances are you’ll be greeted by a beaver slapping its flat tail against the water to alert others of its kind about that human lurking about. This abandoned railroad right-of-way isn’t as intimate as the official narrow trail, but I like the views better. After your hike, consider checking out the lupines at Tolleston Dunes and West Beach. NOTE: The trail can be covered in water in some areas. We recommend high boots. Or just slosh on through!
Chiwaukee Prairie in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin: This prairie-by-the-lake puts on a stunning show of shooting star that takes place sometime between mid-May and early June, joined by a colorful cast: hoary puccoon, golden Alexander, wood betony, yellow star grass, blue-eyed grass, birdfoot violet, and wild strawberry. You may also find some wild lupine along the edges. And the occasional fluffy seed heads of common cottongrass help to brighten up the wetlands. If you’re lucky, you just may find patches of yellow Indian paintbrush. While you’re here, you should definitely visit Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion, which is easily provides the best nature experience in the region.
Somme Prairie Grove in Northbrook: By this time in May, this preserve really starts to shine. In the woodland, you might experience beautiful displays of golden Alexander with its yellow flat-topped umbrellas. Also under the trees are the flat-topped white flowers of cow parsnip, which is a little toxic and can irritate the skin. So, no touchy-feely with this plant. And you may find the final blooms of wild geranium and wild hyacinth. Under the sun, you may see a variety of flowers, including golden balsam ragwort, ivory buttons of bastard toadflax, the occasional shooting star, the delicately elegant stout blue-eyed grass, and the heart-stopping red Indian paintbrush. Wow! Along the way, look for the beautiful creamy blooms of cream wild indigo. And don’t forget to appreciate the lush green textures that come from the foliage of forbs, sedges, and grasses, including the floppy hairdos of prairie dropseed and the heart-shaped leaves of prairie dock. This is also the time of year to experience blue flag iris and yellow water buttercup in the wet areas.
Shoe Factory Road Prairie in Hoffman Estates: Though not officially a hill prairie, this gravelly prairie on a hill gets a lot of sun and also a lot of wildflowers. This is usually a good time to see large patches of golden Alexander and hoary puccoon alongside a smattering of pink downy phlox growing, and any remaining blooms of wood betony, shooting star, birdfoot violet, and blue-eyed grass.
Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion: This is usually the time to experience vibrant shows of wild lupine, hoary puccoon, and downy phlox. For best performances, take the wide gravel trail (Dunes Trail) that head heads south from the parking lot. The lupines aren’t nearly as dramatic as at Miller Woods, but this preserve is a dream. Along the way, you’ll may also see the delightful blue-eyed grass, little white sparkles of sand cress and sandwort, and the red glow of red Indian paintbrush. And while you’re here, consider visiting nearby Chiwaukee Prairie. The brilliant yellow flowers of sand coreopsis may now be blooming, which is one of the region’s most dramatic performances. In open shade of the black oak savanna, look for the buttery yellow blooms of the occasional western goat’s beard along with the three-petaled blossoms of Ohio spiderwort, but the flower doesn’t last long. Each morning, a few buds open to reveal fresh blue flowers that dissolve in the heat of the day into drops of purple liquid. Along the way, you’ll also find the delightful blue-eyed grass, little white sparkles of sand cress and sandwort, and the red glow of red Indian paintbrush. And while you’re here, consider visiting nearby Chiwaukee Prairie
Black Partridge Woods in Lemont: The spring wildflower season ends in May with shows of woodland phlox, mayapple, wild hyacinth, and wild geranium. The greatest densities of the latter two plants can be found atop the bluffs. It’s also a dreamy time to experience the lushness of the woodland. It’s so green—from the new leaves of the tiered tree canopy to the dense carpet of foliage on the woodland floor. Thanks to wild ginger that has fully leafed out, you can hardly see the ground beneath. I love the miniature forests of mayapple with their parasol-shaped leaves where you may still be able to find a lonesome waxy white blossom hiding under the plants with two umbrellas. Exciting patches of acrobatic skunk cabbage leaves add to the whimsy. Wild leek‘s emerald swords put up a defense, along with the star-like leaves of wild geranium. And look for the floating filigreed foliage of early meadow rue. A smattering of white and pink shooting star may also be found on the bluffs above. And if woodland phlox is still aflower, note its gorgeous fragrance. If you find a larger patch of phlox, you may not even have to put nose to petal to detect its fabulous scent. The combination of woodland phlox, wild geranium, and shooting star is wonderful sight.
Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester: Late May usually starts the monthlong performance of Ohio spiderwort along the southeast edge of the preserve near Wolf Road. However, those flowers will be gone by afternoon, especially if it’s hot. In the prairie, you’ll also find a small mix of other flowers including hoary puccoon, golden Alexander, downy phlox and daisy fleabane. I particularly love the emerging tones and textures of prairie dock, rattlesnake master, and compass plant. By late May, you may still find the fading blooms of wood betony, starry false Solomon’s seal, wild hyacinth and wild geranium.
“GO, IF YOU’RE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD”:
Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve in Monee: I love this place for its springtime lushness. In late May, you’ll most likely see dramatic plumes of false Solomon’s seal scattered across the rolling verdant landscape. The foliage on the woodland floor has fully matured as the trees are pushing out fresh delicate leaves in the canopy overhead. Spread across the woodland floor are the jade hues and lush patterns of wild leek, mayapple, and the omnipresent wild ginger.
Fermilab Prairie in Batavia: In late May, the prairie is usually aflower with golden Alexander and shooting star.
Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin: The most prolific blooms may be happening under the sun with shining displays of balsam ragwort and golden Alexander. Then add to that the brilliant yellow blossoms of hairy puccoon. You may also find ivory tones from bastard toadflax in the prairie and fluffy plumes of common cottongrass in the soggy areas.
Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove: In May, this intimate remnant prairie awakens with golden bouquets of hoary puccoon. Ohio spiderwort may have also started.
Powderhorn Marsh & Prairie in Chicago: You may find a mixture of spiderwort, hoary puccoon, and golden Alexander in the prairie. This high-quality preserve is our only showcase preserve located inside the city of Chicago.
PLANT OF THE WEEK (Shooting Star & Wild Lupine):
Shooting Star:
In May, the beautiful blooms of shooting star can be found in prairies and woodlands, alike. The shape of the flower belies its celestial name, with five petals that trail behind its pointed tip. This springtime plant favors soil that is moist to modestly dry, but can thrive on the sunny slopes if there’s enough rain. It seems to like slopes because it doesn’t get as much competition there. The plant is also sensitive to dead vegetation that can smother it, which is why it also favors the occasional fire.*
Early to mid-May brings scenes of shooting star and woodland phlox to the bluffs of Black Partridge Woods in Lemont, Illinois.”
On this May evening, shooting stars glowed in the final light of day at Fermilab Prairie in Batavia, Illinois.*
Sometime between mid-May and early June, Chiwaukee Prairie offers a spectacular display of shooting star.*
Wild Lupine:
Wild lupine, of species Lupinus perennis, seems to love poor soil,. However, in ancient times, it was believed that the lupines were creating the bad soil by wolfing down the nutrients. Hence, the name comes from the Greek word “Lupus,” or “wolf.” In reality, lupine brings nutrients to the soil just like other legumes, such as leadplant, white wild indigo, scurfy pea, and purple prairie clover. Around Chicago, lupine can be found growing in sandy soil under the trees of black oak savannas, including Miller Woods, part of Indiana Dunes National Park and Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion.
Atop this spring dune thrives wild lupine at Miller Woods, part of Indiana Dunes National Park in Gary, Indiana. While you’re in the park, you also can find them at Tolleston Dunes, and West Beach.*
Biodiversity is about the many, not the few. Here, it’s springtime in the savanna at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, where blue lupines share precious space with hoary puccoon. But, as the season advances, both will fade, making room for an array of other species, in a cycle where each has its time in the sun and then returns to the soil.*
An exploration into the inner world of wild lupine.
PHOTO SECTION
Golden Alexander:
Golden Alexander of species Zizia aurea appears to have large flowers, but what you are seeing is a cluster of miniature one-eighth-inch blooms. The pollen and nectar of the flowers benefit insects with short mouthparts. The plant grows in both high-quality and degraded habitats. The golden blooms can be found brightening up the panoramas at preserves that include Somme Prairie Grove, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, Wolf Road Prairie, and Chiwaukee Prairie.*
In May at Chiwaukee Prairie, golden Alexander blooms amidst the heart-shaped leaves of prairie dock.*
Green glow describes leaves that glow a bright green from sunlight shining through them. Here, we see a special kind of green glow that results in a shadow play, as sunlight shines through a translucent leaf of prairie dock, as golden Alexander casts its distinctive silhouette.*
Wild Hyacinth:
Wild hyacinth at Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester, Illinois.*
Each May, wild hyacinth blooms in woodlands and oak savannas across the Chicago region including, here, at Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester, Illinois.*
Each May, wild hyacinth blooms in woodlands and oak savannas across the Chicago region including, here, at Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester, Illinois.*
Starry False Solomon’s Seal:
The geometric beauty of starry false Solomon’s seal at Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester, Illinois.*
Wood Betony:
Wood betony (Pedicularis canadensis) is also known as lousewort because it was erroneously thought to bring lice to grazing sheep and photographers who get too close. For some of its nutritional needs, the plant uses its roots to feed off of grasses, mycorrhizal fungi, and possibly other plants. I said “some” nutritional needs. Therefore, that plant is a parasite, but only partially so. Hence, it’s a hemi-parasite, more of a nibbler, as opposed to a full-fledged sap-sucking parasite. Though the leaves at the base exude a beautiful reddish tone, the green color above is the giveaway. The verdant hue shows that it’s not totally lazy, and creates its own energy through sunlight and chlorophyll production. In fact, wood betony can grow just fine even when its host plants aren’t around. Due to its nibbling nature, wood betony is known to stunt the growth of surrounding grasses. This is why it’s sometimes used in habitat restoration to quell the aggressiveness of towering grasses. In May, wood betony blooms in the best open woodlands, prairies, and savannas, like Black Partridge Woods, Bluff Spring Fen, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, Fermilab Prairie, Chiwaukee Prairie, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, and here at Somme Prairie Grove in Northbrook, Illinois.*
On this May morning at Shoe Factory Road Prairie, wood betony awakens to the light of a red sunrise.*
Usually in early May, wood betony blooms atop the bluffs at Black Partridge Woods in Lemont, Illinois.*
Hoary Puccoon:
At Shoe Factory Road Prairie, hoary puccoon and birdfoot violet glow in the morning light at this prairie-on-a-hill.*
The golden blooms of hoary puccoon can be found, here, at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve and many other preserves around the region including Miller Woods, Powderhorn Marsh and Prairie, Wolf Road Prairie, Gensburg-Markham Prairie, and more.*
Blue Flag Iris starts to bloom in the late May:
Blue flag iris is a wetland plant that grows in standing mud or standing water. Here, a phalanx of blue flag iris towered over the spring wetland at Somme Prairie Grove in Northbrook.*
Blue flag iris blooms in the late-May wetland at Spears Woods in Willow Springs. But you can see it in good wetlands throughout the area.*
Foxglove Beardtongue usually begins in late May:
In June, foxglove beardtongue blooms at Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin and many other preserves. In the fall, the seeds smell EXACTLY like vomit! Be still my heart.*
Sand Coreopsis:
In a celebration of life, blooms of sand coreopsis spread their golden joy along the banks of the Dead River at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve in Zion.*
The turning earth is the dimmer switch, gradually recasting every dim dewdrop, petal, and blade of grass into a galaxy of blazing bulbs and lustrous lamps. On this late-spring morning at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, blooms of golden sand coreopsis and New Jersey tea are set aglow alongside shimmering spider webs that cling to last year’s grasses.*
Ohio Spiderwort and its Melting Flowers:
In late May or early June, Ohio spiderwort begins a performance that will last a month or longer, starring a cluster of buds that releases only a couple of flowers each day. Each morning, a new bud opens into a delicate blue or purple flower. You may find spiderwort, right now, at Wolf Road Prairie, Belmont Prairie, Bluff Spring Fen, Pembroke Savanna, Powderhorn Prairie, Miller Woods, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, and more.
As the day wears on, each blossom begins to wither—then miraculously melts into a gem of royal jelly. An enzyme in the flower causes it to slowly decompose, and hot weather speeds up the process. It’s noon, and this flower is already shriveling.*
By midafternoon, this spiderwort bloom was melting blue between my fingertips. Do you notice my purple fingers? I was arrested earlier that morning.
This is the scene from Wolf Road Prairie, as blossoms of Ohio spiderwort open to meet the new day.*
At Miller Woods (Indiana Dunes National Park), spiderwort and ferns cover the side of the dunes.*
Wild Columbine:
Wild columbine reflects the afternoon light at Miller Woods in Indiana Dunes National Park.
Indian Paintbrush:
Here at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Indian paintbrush brightens up the foggy morning landscape. You can also find this flower at Gensburg-Markham Prairie and Somme Prairie Grove.*
Sand Phlox:
Sand phlox of species of Phlox bifida bifida (no I didn’t stutter) has one white or pale blue-violet corolla, which is a collection of petals. But in this case, there’s only one petal with five Y-shaped lobes. As the common name suggests, this plant is often found growing in sandy soil, but it can handle mesic earth as well. This pictured colony of sand phlox surrounds a soft, sandy mound that was made by the burrowing plains pocket gopher in the black oak savanna of Pembroke Savanna Nature Preserve.*
Stout Blue-Eyed Grass
The sublime blooms of stout blue-eye grass may now be aflower at Pembroke Savanna in Hopkins Park, Illinois. And they bloom at these other preserves: Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Chiwaukee Prairie, Miller Woods, and Somme Prairie Grove.*
Mayapple:
In woodlands across northeastern Illinois, like here at Black Partridge Woods in Lemont, April showers bring out the umbrellas in the form of mayapples. And the white flowers of false rue anemone sparkle like raindrops. *
Wild Ginger:
The green foliage is the star of the springtime show. Here you see the heart-shaped leaves of wild ginger alongside a single blooming mayapple. The flowers of both plants can be found hiding beneath the leaves. All of our featured woodlands feature both of these plants.*
* Photo is representational and was not recorded this year. Bloom times vary from year to year.
If you find this website of Chicago nature information useful, please consider donating or purchasing my nationally-acclaimed book that celebrates all of the preserves featured on this website.
—Mike
ChicagoNatureNow! ALERT
05-03-2024
Mike MacDonald’s
Chicago Nature NOW! Alert
May 3 – May 15, 2024
“Weekly Wildflower Forecasts Featuring
Chicago’s Best Weekend Getaways & Nature Trips”
Plan the Best Nature Walks & Getaways Around Chicago!
Don’t miss one beautiful moment.
Click here to subscribe to receive FREE wildflower forecasts!
Each week, we offer you opportunities to find peace during this trying time!
PLEASE DONATE IF WE’VE HELPED YOU FIND SOLACE IN NATURE.
Donate to Our GoFundMe Campaign
The month of May brings new layers of greenery and wildflowers
to our woodlands and the first blooms in our prairies and savannas.
WILDFLOWER FORECAST & HIGHLIGHTS to help you plan your outdoor adventures into Chicago’s Woodlands:
May brings great lushness to the woodlands and a new group of flowers. And the savannas and prairie begin to put on their first performances. But what’s blooming right now? According to my database, there’s a good chance of catching both performances this season. But nature isn’t about the flowers. It’s about the experience. Explore and discover a preserve from the list below. Be open to nature’s unexpected gifts, whether it be a colorful, awe-inspiring bloom, the mysterious squeak of two rubbing trees mimicking the cry of a baby animal, or the life-affirming odor of skunk cabbage. All of these things will open up your life to a world of wonder and intrigue.
The spectacular shows of Virginia Bluebell and large-flowered trillium are now gone. The newest flowers to be found in our woodlands are woodland phlox and wild geranium alongside hidden blossoms of mayapple and wild ginger. Take a close look underneath the leaves of wild ginger to find their fuzzy burgundy flowers. And the large waxy white blossoms of mayapple may also be flowering. To find them, look beneath the umbrellas of two-leafed plants. In the woodlands, the earliest of our spring ephemerals should mostly be gone. Many them are colored white, including bloodroot, false rue anemone, rue anemone, spring cress, white trout lily, Dutchman’s breeches, cutleaf toothwort. Spring beauty is white with pink stripes, and sharp-lobed hepatica offers a beautiful palette ranging from white to lavender to purple. You should be able to see some some red in the form of prairie trillium. And as for the hues of blues, our common blue violet is extremely beautiful when growing in a clump amidst its heart-shaped foliage. The yellow blossoms of marsh marigold are also gone or well on their way out. You may still find yellow violet, bristly buttercup, yellow trout lily, and the shy drooping blossoms of large-flowered bellwort with beautiful colonies along the bluffs of Johnson’s Mound and Black Partridge Woods. Shooting star and spiraling wood betony (our Plant of the Week) also grows in some woodlands, including Black Partridge Woods. But these two flowers are also on display in some of our savannas and prairies, including Somme Prairie Grove, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, Fermilab Prairie, and later in the month at Chiwaukee Prairie when the shooting stars cover the grassland pink with touches of yellow star grass, birdfoot violet, and golden Alexander. And the golden blossoms of hoary puccoon may be found in our prairies and oak savannas, including Somme Prairie Grove, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, Pembroke Savanna, Belmont Prairie, Miller Woods, and usually a little later at Illinois Beach Nature Preserve and Chiwaukee Prairie.
Wild hyacinth also make their debut at the start of May with the best displays at Wolf Road Prairie and atop the bluffs at Black Partridge Woods.
And let’s not forget the textured lushness and shapely foliage that typify vernal season: wild leek, mayapple, skunk cabbage, and wild ginger. Wild leek is the one of the first plants to sprout, with a spray of swordlike leaves that make up a large percentage of the woodland greenery. You should now find mayapple with leaves that resemble an open umbrella, or a closed umbrella when they first sprout. Seek out the the sprawling leaves of skunk cabbage in the wet and muddy areas. Great displays can be found at Pilcher Park, Trout Park, Black Partridge Woods, and Bluff Spring Fen. And notice the heart-shaped leaves of wild ginger and its fuzzy burgundy flower hiding underneath. As an interesting history lesson, wild leek is the plant that gives Chicago its name. In the late 1600s, Potawatomi Indians who paddled the area rivers were commonly heard yelling “Chicagoua!” after catching a strong whiff of chicagoua, or wild leek, growing prolifically along the wooded banks. Wild leek is part of the onion family, hence the Chicago nickname, “The Big Onion.” NOTE: It is illegal to remove this plant, or any other plant, from any preserve in the Chicago region.
Another wonderful show happens sometime between late April and mid-May at Pembroke Savanna, when birdfoot violet and sand phlox (one of our Plants of the Week) carpet the sandy floor of this black oak savanna. And, if you’re lucky, the breathtaking stout blue-eye grass might be aflower.
SPRING WILDFLOWER GETAWAYS AROUND CHICAGO:
I’ve ranked the preserves on this week’s list based on the information predicted by my one-of-a-kind propriety database of wildflowers blooming events, starting out with the best or “Go!” The “Go, if You’re in the Neighborhood” section is for sites that are worth visiting if you can’t make it to the top-rated preserves.
LIKELY, THIS WEEK’S BEST CHOICES (“GO!”):
Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester: Under the trees of the oak savanna, wild hyacinth often reaches peak bloom around this time alongside nice pink displays of wild geranium. In the prairie, look for the buttery blossoms of wood betony, the golds of hoary puccoon and golden Alexander, and lots of white starry false Solomon’s seal.
Black Partridge Woods in Lemont: The spring wildflower season ends in May with shows of woodland phlox, mayapple, wild hyacinth, and wild geranium. The greatest densities of the latter two plants can be found atop the bluffs. It’s also a dreamy time to experience the lushness of the woodland. It’s so green—from the new leaves of the tiered tree canopy to the dense carpet of foliage on the woodland floor. Thanks to wild ginger that has fully leafed out, you can hardly see the ground beneath. I love the miniature forests of mayapple with their parasol-shaped leaves where you may still be able to find a lonesome waxy white blossom hiding under the plants with two umbrellas. Exciting patches of acrobatic skunk cabbage leaves add to the whimsy. Wild leek‘s emerald swords put up a defense, along with the star-like leaves of wild geranium. And look for the floating filigreed foliage of early meadow rue. A smattering of white and pink shooting star may also be found on the bluffs above. And if woodland phlox is still aflower, note its gorgeous fragrance. If you find a larger patch of phlox, you may not even have to put nose to petal to detect its fabulous scent. The combination of woodland phlox, wild geranium, and shooting star is wonderful sight.
Johnson’s Mound Forest Preserve in Elburn: This intimate preserve is known for its ravines and the flowers that cross the braes. During early to mid May, the preserve is richly green from your ankles to the fresh tree canopy above. During this time, it often offers some nice displays of pink wild geranium and blue woodland phlox amidst the white blooms of mayapple.
Pembroke Savanna in Hopkins Park: Sometime during late April to mid-May, the preserve puts on a beautiful show of blue and white, as carpets of sapphire birdfoot violet and sparkling sand phlox flow across the savanna. Don’t leave without bending down to enjoy the fragrance of these two jewels. You may also see the white of sand cress and starry false Solomon’s seal, and the golds of two-flowered Cynthia and buds of hoary puccoon. On your visit, you’ll notice mysterious sand mounds throughout the preserves. They are the handiwork of the plains pocket gopher. This rarely seen underground gopher excavates tunnels, and the extra sand has to go somewhere.
Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve in Monee: I love this place for its springtime lushness. In early to mid May, you can find beautiful displays of pink wild geranium and blue woodland phlox. And as May progresses, dramatic plumes of false Solomon’s seal scatter across the rolling verdant landscape. The foliage on the woodland floor has fully matured as the trees are pushing out fresh delicate leaves in the canopy overhead. Spread across the woodland floor are the jade hues and lush patterns of wild leek, mayapple, and the omnipresent wild ginger. The latter two might still be blooming! A rich variety of flowers can be found at this preserve. Upon entering, you’re immediately greeted by a nice display of woodland phlox, which is the most prominent flower after the Virginia bluebells have faded away. Like the bluebell, phlox has a wonderful fragrance that you should be able to smell as you stroll by. At the same time, the pink blossoms of wild geranium rival phlox as the star of the show. You may still find some sparkle from rue anemone, false rue anemone, common blue violet, common yellow violet, and bristly buttercup. And look for Jack-in-the-pulpit and the gorgeous and shy drooping trillium. The strange and wonderful prairie trillium may be blooming in very large numbers, and you may find some that look yellow. And finally, If you take it slow and remain very quiet as you approach the bridge, you may see frogs resting along the muddy banks.
Fermilab Natural Areas in Batavia: NOTE: Visitors must present the proper ID at the guard gate. Click here for details. The woodland adjacent to the prairie is rich in springtime ephemerals. You should find fragrant purple woodland phlox amidst floating pink blossoms of wild geranium. Depending on the date of your visit, you may find many of the usual suspects. e usual suspects in bloom: spring beauty, false rue anemone, prairie trillium, and yellow colonies of bristly buttercup. And of course, these flowers will fall against a verdant backdrop of blooming mayapple, wild ginger, and some wild leek. In the prairie, look for wood betony golden Alexander, and shooting star.
Shoe Factory Road Prairie in Hoffman Estates: Though not officially a hill prairie, this gravelly prairie on a hill gets a lot of sun and also a lot of wildflowers. This may be a good time to see its first blooms of the season from hoary puccoon, wood betony, golden Alexander, shooting star, birdfoot violet, and blue-eyed grass.
“GO, IF YOU’RE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD”:
Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin: Under the trees, check under the parasols of mayapple for its poisonous waxy white flower. Yet, the most prolific blooms may be happening under the sun with shining displays of wood betony and golden Alexander. Then add to that the brilliant yellow blossoms of hairy puccoon. You’ll also find ivory tones from bastard toadflax in the prairie and fluffy plumes of common cottongrass in the soggy areas. Under the protection of the savanna’s canopy, look for woodland phlox, wild geranium, shooting star, and the sublime stout blue-eyed grass.
Somme Prairie Grove in Northbrook: Note that springtime starts a little later in the northern suburbs. Remain under the tree canopy to see the most spring ephemerals. Along your stroll, you should discover spring beauty, white trout lily, some bloodroot, cutleaf toothwort, mayapple, and others. You may now find the beautiful hemi-parasitic wood betony scattered in patches across the preserve, often in the sunnier spots, along with shooting star, prairie trillium, and golden Alexander in early bloom. Look for yellow water buttercup and miniature forests of mayapple that add to the whimsy. Park at the main parking lot for this preserve, located at Somme Woods, then follow the narrow trail and cross the street to Somme Prairie Grove.
Messenger Woods in Homer Glen: You may still find a beautiful show of wild geranium and possibly some woodland phlox. The maroon flowers of prairie trillium may still be hanging on, and so might the large waxy white flowers of mayapple. Once spring takes hold, you’ll see a variety of blooming ephemerals amidst an emerald carpet often rich in a lacy false mermaid, mayapple, wild leek, and wild ginger.
Belmont Prairie in Downers Grove: In May, this intimate remnant prairie awakens with golden bouquets of hoary puccoon alongside starry false Solomon’s seal, yellow star grass, and wild strawberry.
NOTE: If you can’t make it to our showcase preserves, try McKinley Woods/Fredericks Grove in Channahon, Daniel Wright Woods in Mettawa, and Harms Woods in Glenview, and Oldfield Oaks in Darien, and J. Timothy Ritchie Preserve in Chesterton, Indiana. You’re bound to find some good stuff.
PLANT OF THE WEEK (Wood Betony):
Wood betony (Pedicularis canadensis) is also known as lousewort because it was erroneously thought to bring lice to grazing sheep and photographers who get too close. For some of its nutritional needs, the plant uses its roots to feed off of grasses, mycorrhizal fungi, and possibly other plants. I said “some” nutritional needs. Therefore, that plant is a parasite, but only partially so. Hence, it’s a hemi-parasite, more of a nibbler, as opposed to a full-fledged sap-sucking parasite. Though the leaves at the base exude a beautiful reddish tone, the green color above is the giveaway. The verdant hue shows that it’s not totally lazy, and creates its own energy through sunlight and chlorophyll production. In fact, wood betony can grow just fine even when its host plants aren’t around. Due to its nibbling nature, wood betony is known to stunt the growth of surrounding grasses. This is why it’s sometimes used in habitat restoration to quell the aggressiveness of towering grasses. In May, wood betony blooms in the best open woodlands, prairies, and savannas, like Black Partridge Woods, Bluff Spring Fen, Shoe Factory Road Prairie, Fermilab Prairie, Chiwaukee Prairie, Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, and here at Somme Prairie Grove in Northbrook, Illinois. *
On this May morning at Shoe Factory Road Prairie, wood betony awakens to the light of a red sunrise.*
Usually in early May, wood betony blooms atop the bluffs at Black Partridge Woods in Lemont, Illinois.*
PHOTO SECTION
Woodland Phlox:
Many of our featured woodlands are home to the blue or purple, and sometimes, white woodland phlox of species Phlox divaricata laphamii, including here at Black Partridge Woods where they flow in a serpentine wave up the bluff. From a distance, the flower appears to have five petals. But it only has one deeply lobed petal. But because the petals of a flower are collectively known as the corolla, the plant is said to have a five-lobed corolla. The flowers have a beautiful fragrance that I easily detect from several feet away, though pushing your nose into the corolla would give you a much better view of its intricacies.
Sand Phlox:
Sand phlox of species of Phlox bifida bifida (no I didn’t stutter) has one white or pale blue-violet corolla, which is a collection of petals. But in this case, there’s only one petal with five Y-shaped lobes. As the common name suggests, this plant is often found growing in sandy soil, but it can handle mesic earth as well. This pictured colony of sand phlox surrounds a soft, sandy mound that was made by the burrowing plains pocket gopher in the black oak savanna of Pembroke Savanna Nature Preserve.
Large-flowered Trillium can bloom between mid-April and mid-May:
At Heron Rookery Trail in Indiana Dunes National Park, large-flowered trillium is a site to behold.*
Large-flowered trillium of species Trillium grandiflorum covers the woodland floor in a spectacular annual display at J. Timothy Ritchie Nature Preserve in Chesterton, Indiana. This is not on our list of showcase preserves, but it’s a wonderful supplement to your visit to nearby Heron Rookery Trail.*
Sometime between mid-April and early May, large-flowered trillium will appear at Messenger Woods in Homer Glen. Their bloom usually coincides with that of Virginia bluebell.*
Large-flowered trillium carpet the floor of Captain Daniel Wright Woods in Mettawa, Illinois.*
The blooming in the northern suburbs lags behind the southern ones, so it takes a little longer for the large-flowered trillium to appear at Captain Daniel Wright Woods in Metawa, and here, at Harms Woods in Glenview. Notice how the flowers turn pink as they fade.*
Shooting Star:
In May, the beautiful blooms of shooting star can be found in prairies and woodlands, alike.*
A scene of shooting star and woodland phlox atop a bluff at Black Partridge Woods in Lemont, Illinois.”
Wild Geranium:
You can find wild geranium in all of our featured “sandless” woodlands and at many other preserves across the Chicago region. Here at Black Partridge Woods in Lemont, the pink flower hovers above their celestial star-shaped foliage.*
At Raccoon Grove, as evening nears in this beautiful spring woodland, the final streaks of sunlight penetrate the emerald canopy. The shining rays highlight the broad leaves of false Solomon’s seal and animate the soft, pink blooms of wild geranium, making all that is illuminated stand apart from the surrounding foliage.*
May brings glorious displays of wild geranium to Oldfield Oaks in Darien, Illinois, part of Forest Preserve District of DuPage County.*
Wild Hyacinth:
Wild hyacinth at Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester, Illinois.*
Each May, wild hyacinth blooms in woodlands and oak savannas across the Chicago region including, here, at Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester, Illinois.
Wild hyacinth blooms in abundance at Oldfield Oaks in Darien.*
Starry False Solomon’s Seal:
The geometric beauty of starry false Solomon’s seal at Wolf Road Prairie in Westchester, Illinois.
Mayapple:
In woodlands across northeastern Illinois, like here at Black Partridge Woods in Lemont, April showers bring out the umbrellas in the form of mayapples. And the white flowers of false rue anemone sparkle like raindrops. At the moment, mayapples are either just sprouting or just starting to open their umbrellas.*
Wild Ginger:
The green foliage is the star of the springtime show. Here you see the heart-shaped leaves of wild ginger alongside a single blooming mayapple. The flowers of both plants can be found hiding beneath the leaves. All of our featured woodlands feature both of these plants.*
False Rue Anemone:
False rue anemone (of species Enemion biternatum) is a beautiful plant that often blooms in dense colonies. The flowers are white and never have more than five sepals (the white petals that really aren’t petals at all). During the night, they close up into little white balls. False rue anemone is more common than its similar, (true) rue anemone. You can tell them apart by looking at their leaves and flowers. The flowers of false rue anemone can have many sepals, whereas the false version only has five. And the three-lobed leaves have a deeper cleavage between the lobes. Both characteristics are depicted in the image. You can see this plant at any of our showcase woodlands. But the nicest shows take place at Johnson’s Mound, Black Partridge Woods, and Heron Rookery Trail. This and every other woodland wildflower is under attack by the foreign invader known as garlic mustard. It crowds out and poisons its neighbors until all that remains is its own kind covering black earth. This is one reason why the forest preserves are always looking for volunteers, like you, to help control such threats. Volunteer today!*
Rue Anemone:
Rue anemone (of species Thalictrum thalictroides) is a found in the higher quality woodlands of our region that have not been disturbed by human activity. The plant is sometimes called windflower because of the ease at which the flowers blow around in the breeze. And windflower definitely likes the breeze because its blossoms depend on the wind for pollination. Here, it was a cold Tuesday morning at Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve. And while there were hundreds of flowers waiting to open, only this plant of rue anemone was brave enough to blossom. This plant is often confused with false rue anemone. The flowers and foliage are similar, but a closer look will reveal the difference. The number of flower petals, which are actually not petals but sepals, number only five on false rue anemone, whereas the sepal count for rue anemone varies widely, even on the same plant. Here, we see ten. As for the foliage, both have foliage with three lobes. However, they’re “deeply lobed” on the false version, meaning that the leaves have a deeper cleavage between the lobes. Also, the true version tends to grow alone, while the false often grows in clusters.*
Cutleaf Toothwort:
The small flowers of Cutleaf toothwort make a big impact given their size, especially when blooming in large numbers. Even when closed, they still impart a sparkle because the petals are much longer than the sepals. Initially, I thought that the “toothwort” name came from the toothed leaves of the closed flowers that look like molars. But I was wrong. It is the rhizome, a root-like structure located just below the soil between the stem and the root. Most people would not figure this out. I mean, I only discovered it after employing my X-ray vision. However, there was a time when people relied on plants, and often their roots, for survival. And Native Americans ate the tooth-shaped tuber. Now, this isn’t the only plant named after its root. The root of bloodroot, as the name suggest, bleeds a red liquid when broken. Native Americans used this sanguine solution as body paint and to dye clothes and baskets. This shot was taken at O’Hara Woods in Romeoville, but you can find it at any of our featured woodlands.*
In April, cutleaf toothwort blooms in profusion amongst a backdrop of mayapples at every local woodland, including here at O’Hara Woods Nature Preserve where they explode like firecrackers. This preserve was previously known as Dynamite Woods because explosives were stored here during World War II. Nowadays, the only thing that blows up are the spring wildflowers.*
During the month of April, O’Hara Woods Nature Preserve brings a woodland floor sparkling with cutleaf toothwort and the greenery of wild leek and mayapple. You can see all of these plants at all of our featured woodlands.*
Large-Flowered Bellwort:
Look for beautiful populations of large-flowered bellwort at Black Partridge Woods, Johnson’s Mound, and Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve.*
Dutchman’s Breeches (or Dutchman’s Britches):
O’Hara Woods Nature Preserve has a large number of Dutchman’s breeches. It is one of my favorite spring flowers because the flower is just so kooky and the leaves are a dream. Unlike many woodland ephemerals that wait for the sun before they open, these flowers are on full display at any time. You can find them at Heron Rookery Trail, Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve, and many of our showcase woodlands.*
I discovered this pink variety of Dutchman’s breeches at O’Hara Woods Nature Preserve in Romeoville. Notice the beautiful parts and details.*
Prairie Trillium:
At O’Hara Woods in Romeoville, prairie trillium rises as the sun sets.*
Skunk Cabbage:
It’s springtime at Pilcher Park and sunlight shines through the enormous fanning foliage of skunk cabbage which, if broken, releases a strong scent reminiscent of skunk, though sweeter and not nearly as overpowering. If you’re someone like me, who finds the powerful essence of skunk to be an invigorating and life-affirming experience, the skunk inside the cabbage will definitely let you down. You’ll find many at Pilcher Park Nature Center, Black Partridge Woods, Bluff Spring Fen, Trout Park, and O’Hara Woods.*
Stout Blue-Eyed Grass
The sublime blooms of stout blue-eye grass may now be aflower at Pembroke Savanna in Hopkins Park, Illinois. And they bloom at these other preserves: Illinois Beach Nature Preserve, Chiwaukee Prairie, Miller Woods, and Somme Prairie Grove.*
Shoe Factory Road Prairie:
At Shoe Factory Road Prairie, hoary puccoon and birdfoot violet glow in the morning light at this prairie-on-a-hill.*
Pembroke Savanna:
Between late April and mid-May, Pembroke Savanna is home to blooms of white sand phlox and rare birdfoot violet.”
In 2013 and in many years since, sand phlox spread across the black oak savanna of Pembroke Savanna Nature Preserve in Hopkins Park, Illinois.*
* Photo is representational and was not recorded this year. Bloom times vary from year to year.
If you find this website of Chicago nature information useful, please consider donating or purchasing my nationally-acclaimed book that celebrates all of the preserves featured on this website.
—Mike
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04-29-2024
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By this time in April, the early blooms should be well underway. And according to recent observation, the peak bloom of Virginia bluebells have past.
WILDFLOWER FORECAST & HIGHLIGHTS to help you plan your outdoor adventures into Chicago’s Woodlands:
The bluebells are probably all gone, though you may still find the gorgeous large-flowered trillium performs. But nature isn’t about flowers. It’s about the experience. Explore and discover a preserve from the list below. Be open to nature’s unexpected gifts, whether it be a colorful, awe-inspiring bloom, the mysterious squeak of two rubbing trees mimicking the cry of a baby animal, or the life-affirming odor of skunk cabbage. All of these things will open up your life to a world of wonder and intrigue.
The stunning show of large-flowered trillium usually corresponds closely to that of the bluebell, peaking just slightly after. These magnificent blossoms put on the best shows at Heron Rookery Trail (at Indiana Dunes National Park) and at the nearby J. Timothy Ritchie Preserve that’s owned by Shirley Hines Land Trust. These alabaster beauties also grow at Messenger Woods in Homer Glen, Meacham Grove in DuPage County, Harms Woods in Glenview, and Captain Daniel Wright Woods in Mettawa. And speaking of trillium, the elegant and ethereal prairie trillium also flowers in most of our woodlands.
The earliest of our spring ephemerals may be gone or well into their blooming cycle. Many of them are colored white, including bloodroot, false rue anemone, rue anemone, spring cress, white trout lily, Dutchman’s breeches, cutleaf toothwort (our Plant of the Week). Spring beauty is white with pink stripes, and sharp-lobed hepatica offers a beautiful palette ranging from white to lavender to purple.
The yellow blossoms of marsh marigold may still be blooming at some preserves, including Pilcher Park, Bluff Spring Fen, Trout Park, Captain Daniel Wright Woods, and at McClaughry Springs Woods in Palos Park (across the stream from the parking lot). Along the trails of our fine woodlands, check for yellow violet, bristly buttercup, yellow trout lily, buttery wood betony, and the shy drooping blossoms of large-flowered bellwort. You should be able to see some some red in the form of the aforementioned prairie trillium. And as for the hues of blues, our common blue violet is extremely beautiful when growing in a clump amidst its heart-shaped foliage. And, as mentioned before, one of the biggest flower shows of the year is a celebration of blue, as a sea of Virginia Bluebells flood the woodland floor.
And let’s not forget the textured lushness and shapely foliage that typify vernal season: wild leek, mayapple, skunk cabbage, and wild ginger. Wild leek is the one of the first plants to sprout, with a spray of swordlike leaves that make up a large percentage of the woodland greenery. You should now find mayapple with leaves that resemble an open umbrella, or a closed umbrella when they first sprout. Seek out the the sprawling leaves of skunk cabbage in the wet and muddy areas. Great displays can be found at Pilcher Park, Trout Park, Black Partridge Woods, and Bluff Spring Fen. And notice the heart-shaped leaves of wild ginger and its fuzzy burgundy flower hiding underneath. As an interesting history lesson, wild leek is the plant that gives Chicago its name. In the late 1600s, Potawatomi Indians who paddled the area rivers were commonly heard yelling “Chicagoua!” after catching a strong whiff of chicagoua, or wild leek, growing prolifically along the wooded banks. Wild leek is part of the onion family, hence the Chicago nickname, “The Big Onion.”
NOTE: It is illegal to remove this plant, or any other plant from any preserve in the Chicago region.
SPRING WILDFLOWER GETAWAYS AROUND CHICAGO:
I’ve ranked the preserves on this week’s list based on the information predicted by my one-of-a-kind propriety database of wildflowers blooming events, starting out with the best or “Go!” The “Go, if You’re in the Neighborhood” section is for sites that are worth visiting if you can’t make it to the top-rated preserves.
LIKELY, THIS WEEK’S BEST CHOICES (“GO!”):
Black Partridge Woods in Lemont: This preserve makes me happy with its lushness and many patterns and shades of emerald foliage, especially the swords of wild leek, umbrellas of mayapple, hearts of wild ginger, sprawling skunk cabbage, and stars of soon-to-bloom wild geranium. Hidden amongst the jade hues, try to find the beautiful floating foliage of early meadow rue. See if you can still spot the shimmering petals of bloodroot, sharp-lobed hepatica, cutleaf toothwort, false rue anemone, spring beauty, and the occasional Dutchman’s breeches. Search for the azure tones of common blue violet and woodland phlox. And seek out the shy drooping yellow blossoms of large-flowered bellwort. This is usually the best time to find Virginia bluebells blooming, with the largest display located west of the creek.
Heron Rookery Trail at Indiana Dunes National Park: The peak bloom of large-flowered trillium usually happens around this time, but it can be earlier or later depending on the whims of Mother Nature. The display of trillium is even better at the nearby J. Timothy Ritchie Preserve, which is owned by Shirley Hines Land Trust. Begin your stroll at the west parking lot. This woodland usually blooms earlier than most of our other preserves, but it can also be flooded by waters of the adjacent Little Calumet River. You may find sparkles of sharp-lobed hepatica, rue anemone and false rue anemone, Dutchman’s breeches, cutleaf toothwort, purple cress, bloodroot, and spring beauty. Look for patches of spear-like foliage that resemble green spotted trout. In there, you may find magnificent blooms of yellow trout lily. The otherworldly burgundy prairie trillium may also be flowering by now, and so might the bright-yellow bristly buttercup that enjoys wet and muddy woodlands. The lush, sprawling foliage of wild leek, mayapple, and wild ginger greatly enhance the springtime experience.
Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve in Monee: The preserve puts on a show with a rich variety of flowers throughout the month of April and into the second half of May. Look for the whitish pink expanse of spring beauty and myriad other wildflowers, including Dutchman’s breeches, false rue anemone, rue anemone, bloodroot, cutleaf toothwort, and surprisingly large colonies of flowering white trout lily. Adding to the color palette, you may see common blue violet, the golden hues of common yellow violet and swamp buttercup, and the strange and wonderful maroon tones of prairie trillium. Also, experience the jade hues and lush patterns of wild leek, mayapple, and wild ginger that add to the springtime mix. This preserve offers a nice display of Virginia bluebells, but not an overwhelming ocean like other preserves. Note that many spring flowers don’t open up at the break of day. They are awakened by the light. On cloudy days, they may remain enclosed safely in their buds. Fortunately, when closed, the Dutchman’s breeches cannot close and the white petals of toothwort are still visible and continue to twinkle.
Pilcher Park Nature Center in Joliet: Begin your hike at the nature center where you may find a lush understory of spring wildflowers. Depending on when you visit, you may find sharp-lobed hepatica, cutleaf toothwort, false rue anemone, spring beauty, purple cress, and Dutchman’s breeches. Just as beautiful as the flowers are the fresh green leaves of wild leek, mayapple, and skunk cabbage. My favorite flower-of-the-moment is marsh marigold. Look for its yellow blossoms in the low, muddy areas of the site. You can find them near the nature center and around the trail after the bridge at this GPS coordinate: 41.532780, -88.016478. While you’re there (and just about anywhere with mud), look for the large fanning foliage of skunk cabbage. They’re hard to miss. Virginia bluebells also like the mud, especially along the banks of the creek. This preserve is one of the best places to experience a vastitude of bluebells which often flowers between mid-April and the first week of May.
Johnson’s Mound Forest Preserve in Elburn: This intimate preserve is known for its ravines that sparkle white with dense white colonies of false rue anemone that flow across the braes. But you’ll also see many other plants, as well, like cutleaf toothwort, Dutchman’s breeches. sharp-lobed hepatica, wild leek, mayapple, prairie trillium and common blue violet, and the sublime large-flowered large-flowered bellwort that also grows in colonies. In late April or early May, look for drooping trillium and large-flowered trillium.
Fermilab Natural Areas in Batavia: The woodland adjacent to the prairie is rich in springtime ephemerals. Depending on the date of your visit, you’ll find many of the usual suspects in bloom: cutleaf toothwort, bloodroot, spring beauty, white trout lily, Dutchman’s breeches, false rue anemone, prairie trillium, and yellow colonies of bristly buttercup. And of course, these flowers will fall against a verdant backdrop of mayapple, wild ginger, and some wild leek. In May, the grand alabaster blossoms of large-flowered trillium steal the show amidst floating pink blossoms of wild geranium.
Messenger Woods in Homer Glen: The peak bloom of large-flowered trillium usually happens around this time, but it can be earlier or later depending on the weather. This preserve exudes that green and luxuriant feeling of spring. Once spring takes hold, you’ll see a variety of blooming ephemerals amidst an emerald carpet often rich in a lacy false mermaid, mayapple, wild leek, and wild ginger. The most common blossoms that bloom in early spring are spring beauty, cutleaf toothwort, Dutchman’s breeches, bloodroot, false rue anemone, white trout lily, and prairie trillium. This preserve is known for its vast display of bluebells, which can reach peak bloom sometime between April 2 and May 6, though often in the last week of April.
“GO, IF YOU’RE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD”:
Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin: Early in the spring, the transcendent yellow blossoms of marsh marigold should be flowering alongside fresh lush colonies of skunk cabbage. Soon after, you should also find miniature canopies of mayapple and a small number of spring ephemerals. And under the shade of the oaks in the savanna, you’ll find small patches of false rue anemone. For the best views of marsh marigold and skunk cabbage, visit Trout Park for dense populations of these plants in an intimate setting. The preserve features a trail that takes you up and down the bluffs that includes a wooden boardwalk that carefully guides you through sensitive wet areas. While on the boardwalk, look for Chicago’s only native evergreen tree, the northern white cedar. Atop the bluff, you’ll find other spring wildflowers.
Somme Prairie Grove in Northbrook: Park at the main parking lot for this preserve, located at Somme Woods, and then follow the narrow trail and across the street to Somme Prairie Grove. Note that springtime starts a little later in the northern suburbs. Remain under the tree canopy to see the most spring ephemerals. Along your stroll, you should discover spring beauty, white trout lily, some bloodroot, cutleaf toothwort, mayapple, and others.
O’Hara Woods Preserve in Romeoville: The spectacular display of Virginia bluebells is usually taking place around this time, though it can vary between April 2 and May 5. This will be the top preserve to visit when the Virginia bluebells reach their peak. The preserve was once called Dynamite Woods because the site stored explosives during World War II. You can still see the crumbling bunkers, but they’re being taken over by woodland plants. Around this time, the white flowers of cutleaf toothwort should be exploding like sparklers across the woodland floor. Walk towards the stream along the south end of the preserve, and you’ll find Dutchman’s breeches (that look like white, puffy overalls), spring beauty, skunk cabbage, mayapple, wild leek (Chicago’s namesake), and Virginia bluebells.
NOTE: If you can’t make it to our showcase preserves, try McKinley Woods/Fredericks Grove in Channahon, Johnson’s Mound in Elburn, Daniel Wright Woods in Mettawa, and Harms Woods in Glenview, and Oldfield Oaks in Darien, and J. Timothy Ritchie Preserve in Chesterton, Indiana. You’re bound to find some good stuff.
PLANT OF THE WEEK (Virginia Bluebell):
Before they bloom, the Virginia bluebell (of species Mertensia virginica) shows off pink and purple buds. You can find them at Messenger Woods, Pilcher Park, Black Partridge Woods, and here at O’Hara Woods Nature Preserve in Romeoville.*
Ah, the Virginia bluebell. This flower is not only beautiful, but it smells wonderful as well. When the flowers are blooming, the woodland fills with a fragrance that some say resembles the scent of Froot Loops cereal. So, last year, I put this to a test, in a side-by-side comparison. First, I lowered my nose into a small plastic bag filled with the cereal. Wow! I didn’t realize how “sharp” the sweetness was. Then, I cleared my nose by smelling my glove, and moved my nostrils into the fragrant blue trumpets. Here’s what I found. The bluebells do smell like the cereal, but not as sharp. But they also have a floral aroma. Therefore, bluebells smell like a floral Chanel version of Froot Loops cereal. Right now, you’ll find mostly buds and maybe a few open flowers of Virginia bluebell (species Mertensia virginica) at Messenger Woods, Pilcher Park, Black Partridge Woods, and here at O’Hara Woods Nature Preserve in Romeoville.*
O’Hara Woods presents the best display of of Virginia bluebells around that fill the air with a floral scent of Froot Loops cereal.*
Visit Pilcher Park Nature Center for one of the best performance of Virginia bluebell in the region.*
Virginia bluebells bloom en mass along the creek at Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve in Monee, though not in vast expanses like other woodlands on our list.*
Messenger Woods in Homer Glen is one of the best places to experience breathtaking expanses of Virginia bluebells.*
PHOTO SECTION
Large-flowered Trillium can bloom between mid-April and early May:
At Heron Rookery Trail in Indiana Dunes National Park, large-flowered trillium is a site to behold.*
Large-flowered trillium of species Trillium grandiflorum covers the woodland floor in a spectacular annual display at J. Timothy Ritchie Nature Preserve in Chesterton, Indiana. This is not on our list of showcase preserves, but it’s a wonderful supplement to your visit to nearby Heron Rookery Trail.
Sometime between mid-April and early May, large-flowered trillium will appear at Messenger Woods in Homer Glen. The bloom usually coincides with that of Virginia bluebell.*
The blooming in the northern suburbs lags behind the southern ones, so it takes a little longer for the large-flowered trillium to appear at Captain Daniel Wright Woods in Metawa and, here, at Harms Woods in Glenview. Notice how the flowers turn pink as they fade.*
Cutleaf Toothwort:
The small flowers of Cutleaf toothwort make a big impact given their size, especially when blooming in large numbers. Even when closed, they still impart a sparkle because the petals are much longer than the sepals. Initially, I thought that the “toothwort” name came from the toothed leaves or the closed flowers that look like molars. But I was wrong. It is the rhizome, a root-like structure located just below the soil between the stem and the root. Most people would not figure this out. I mean, I only discovered it after employing my X-ray vision. However, there was a time when people relied on plants, and often their roots, for survival. And Native Americans ate the tooth-shaped tuber. Now, this isn’t the only plant named after its root. The root of bloodroot, as the name suggest, bleeds a red liquid when broken. Native Americans used this sanguine solution as body paint and to dye clothes and baskets. This shot was taken at O’Hara Woods in Romeoville, but you can find it at any of our featured woodlands.*
In April, cutleaf toothwort blooms in profusion amongst a backdrop of mayapples at every local woodland, including here at O’Hara Woods Nature Preserve where they explode like firecrackers. This preserve was previously known as Dynamite Woods because explosives were stored here during World War II. Nowadays, the only thing that blows up are the spring wildflowers.*
During the month of April, O’Hara Woods Nature Preserve brings a woodland floor sparkling with cutleaf toothwort and the greenery of wild leek and mayapple. You can see all of these plants at all of our featured woodlands.
Large-Flowered Bellwort:
Look for beautiful populations of large-flowered bellwort at Black Partridge Woods, Johnson’s Mound, and Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve.
Marsh Marigold:
My heart skips a beat when I see marsh marigold. At Bluff Spring Fen in Elgin, yellow flowers of marsh marigold were covered in a magical patina of morning frost. Visit nearby Trout Park for the best view of these plants. Pilcher Park Nature Center also has a beautiful display.*
In early spring, I come to Pilcher Park to play in the mud. Here, skunk cabbage and marsh marigold thrive in a woodland floodplain of inky water and the blackest muck I’ve ever seen.*
Marsh marigold and skunk cabbage mix and mingle at McClaughry Springs Woods in Palos Park, Illinois.
False Rue Anemone:
False rue anemone (of species Enemion biternatum) is a beautiful plant that often blooms in dense colonies. The flowers are white and never have more than five sepals (the white petals that really aren’t petals at all). During the night, they close up into little white balls. False rue anemone is more common than its similar, (true) rue anemone. You can tell them apart by looking at their leaves and flowers. The flowers of false rue anemone can have many sepals, whereas the false version only has five. And the three-lobed leaves have a deeper cleavage between the lobes. Both characteristics are depicted in the image. You can see this plant at any of our showcase woodland. But the nicest shows take place at Johnson’s Mound, Black Partridge Woods, and Heron Rookery Trail. This and every other woodland wildflower is under attack by the foreign invader known as garlic mustard. It crowds out and poisons its neighbors until all that remains is its own kind covering black earth. This is one reason why the forest preserves are always looking for volunteers, like you, to help control such threats. Volunteer today!
Rue Anemone:
Rue anemone (of species Thalictrum thalictroides) is a found in the higher quality woodlands of our region that have not been disturbed by human activity. The plant is sometimes called windflower because of the ease at which the flowers blow around in the breeze. And windflower definitely likes the breeze because its blossoms depend on the wind for pollination. Here, it was a cold Tuesday morning at Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve. And while there were hundreds of flowers waiting to open, only this plant of rue anemone was brave enough to blossom. This plant is often confused with false rue anemone. The flowers and foliage are similar, but a closer look will reveal the difference. The number of flower petals, which are actually not petals but sepals, number only five on false rue anemone, whereas the sepal count for rue anemone varies widely, even on the same plant. Here, we see ten. As for the foliage, both have foliage with three lobes. However, they’re “deeply lobed” on the false version, meaning that the leaves have a deeper cleavage between the lobes. Also, the true version tends to grow alone, while the false often grows in clusters.
Dutchman’s Breeches (or Dutchman’s Britches):
O’Hara Woods Nature Preserve has a large number of Dutchman’s breeches. It is one of my favorite spring flowers because the flower is just so kooky and the leaves are a dream. Unlike many woodland ephemerals that wait for the sun before they open, these flowers are on full display at any time. You can find them at Heron Rookery Trail, Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve, and many of our showcase woodlands.*
I discovered this pink variety of Dutchman’s breeches at O’Hara Woods Nature Preserve in Romeoville. Notice the beautiful parts and details.*
Prairie Trillium:
At O’Hara Woods in Romeoville, prairie trillium rises as the sun sets.*
Sharp-lobed Hepatica:
This is sharp-lobed hepatica of species Hepatica nobilis acuta. It pops up through a layer of last year’s leaves and beckons the start of the new blooming season with floral color that ranges from white to pink, blue to purple. I’m especially taken by the colorful, textured cluster of miniature structures that inhabit the center of the flower, the deep three-lobed leaves, and the dark red stems. Another name for hepatica is liverleaf, referring to the shape of the leaf’s lobes. Early in the spring, you can find them at Heron Rookery Trail, Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve, Bluff Spring Fen, and here at Black Partridge Woods in Lemont, Illinois.*
Here at Black Partridge Woods in Lemont, Illinois, a group of sharp-lobed hepatica huddles around the base of an oak tree.*
Bloodroot:
This is bloodroot of species Sanguinaria canadensis. The white flowers are beautiful, but short-lived. At the end of its run, the slightest touch send the petals falling to the ground. The common name and genus name Sanguinaria come from the fact that breaking the stem or the roots makes the plant bleed a red juice. Don’t pick the flower to find out. Just take my word for it. Native Americans used the plant for dying their clothes and baskets, and for body paint. In woodlands, the wind gets broken up by trees which reduces its speed. Therefore, bloodroot and most other woodland plants do not depend on the breeze to disperse their seed. They rely on ants. In a process known as myrmechochory, the seeds of bloodroot have a fleshy organ called an elaiosome that’s made up of fat or oil. The ants take the seeds back to their colonies where they eat the elaiosomes, but discard the seed into an rich and nourishing accumulation of nest debris where the seeds can safety germinate under the unwitting protection of the colony.
Mayapple:
In woodlands across northeastern Illinois, like here at Black Partridge Woods, in Lemont, April showers bring out the umbrellas in the form of mayapples. And the white flowers of false rue anemone sparkle like raindrops. At the moment, mayapples are either just sprouting or just starting to open their umbrellas.*
Wild Ginger:
The green foliage is the star of the springtime show. Here you see the heart-shaped leaves of wild ginger alongside a single blooming mayapple. The flowers of both plants can be found hiding beneath the leaves. All of our featured woodlands feature both of these plants.*
Skunk Cabbage:
It’s springtime at Pilcher Park and sunlight shines through the enormous fanning foliage of skunk cabbage which, if broken, releases a strong scent reminiscent of skunk, though sweeter and not nearly as overpowering. If you’re someone who, like me, finds the powerful essence of skunk to be an invigorating and life-affirming experience, the skunk inside the cabbage will definitely let you down. You’ll find many at Pilcher Park Nature Center, Black Partridge Woods, Bluff Spring Fen, Trout Park, and O’Hara Woods.*
In late winter and early spring, skunk cabbage penetrates the frozen temperatures of late winter to be Chicago’s first plant to bloom. It uses its own heating system to melt the snow and ice in a process known as thermogenesis. The bumps atop the ball inside the spathe (the hood) are the plant’s flowers. And that ball is called the spadix. It’s the furnace that generates the heat and also creates a odor reminiscent of a yummy dead animal. Not yummy to us, but to carrion flies that are in search of a delicious treat. The plant uses this trick to attract flies, hoping that they’ll unwittingly pollinate the flowers as they buzz about looking for something dead to eat.
In its early stages, the speckled maroon spathe of skunk cabbage blends with leaf litter on the woodland floor, making it difficult to find when it first emerges. However, the plant becomes more conspicuous as it grows larger and produces its curious, oval-shaped yellow flower head, known as a spadix. The tiny delicate protrusions you see on the spadix are the flowers.
* Photo is representational and was not recorded this year. Bloom times vary from year to year.
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—Mike