Found Blooming

The saying is leaves of three let them be, but there are a few neat plants that do not give you a rash that also have leaves of three.  Most notably Trillium sp. (Trillium) and Arisaema triphyllum Jack in the Pulpit.  Both were noticed at one of TLC's properties this past week, the differences between the two plants are fairly subtle (if they aren't flowering).  The veins on the Trillium leaf run parallel to the mid-rib vein where the veins on the Jack in the Pulpits run perpendicular to the mid-rib vein.  (I'm using the words parallel and perpendicular loosely--a geometrist would tell you that neither or exactly correct, but you get the gist!)

Check out this beautiful specimen of Trillium cernuum or Nodding Trillium that was found on our hike.  Note this is a PA Threatened Plant so no further location will be disclosed.  Of course, I always recommend that you watch carefully while you hike for what may be out there, and please stay on the trails as simple trampling of such a plant can keep it from blooming.  

Come out Saturday, May 25 from 9am to 12pm to Bucktoe Creek Preserve with plant guru Janet Ebert to learn about native grasses, she is a walking field guide and is extremely knowledgeable about all plants found throughout our region!! Sign up for this Saturday's walk here.