What’s Blooming at Riveredge? An Updated Phenology Report

One of the fantastic Riveredge volunteers, who has been exploring Riveredge trails for years to both take photographs and record observations, is letting us know what she sees blooming at Riveredge. In scientific terms, this is called “Phenology.” What is phenology? It’s very similar to another word, phenomenon. Phenology means what happens, and when, in nature. Some of the most common examples are: when flowers are blooming, when buds are present, when specific migratory bird species return, when birds are nesting.

Chances are, you already notice phenology you just might not call it that. If you notice when your garden is blooming, when the trees are budding, or when butterflies return to the skies – you’re observing phenology! Read below to learn what you can find along the trails when you visit Riveredge Nature Center right now.

Flowers Blooming

Pasqueflower
Pasqueflower blooming on the prairie. Interestingly, the plant is named for the Passover, as it generally blooms at about the same time as the celebration.

Skunk Cabbage
Pasque Flower
Penn Sedge
Bloodroot (1 plant)
Hepatica (1 plant – pictured first in this post)

Flower Buds Present

Marsh Marigold when flowering…not quite there yet!

Spring Beauty
False Rue Anemone
Dutchman’s Breeches
Spring Cress
Marsh Marigold

Sprouting/Leaves Present

The Blue Flag Iris aren’t this showy at this point, but keep an eye out for them near water sources.

Wild Geranium
Cut-leaved Toothwort
Angelica
Stinging Nettle
Shooting Star
Blue Flag Iris

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