Plants

The Turkey Oak, scientifically known as Quercus laevis, is a member of the Fagaceae family within the genus Quercus, commonly known as oaks. It belongs to the red oak group, specifically under the section Lobatae, which includes oaks with pointed leaf lobes. The species name “laevis” is derived from Latin, meaning “smooth” or “polished,” referring … Read more

April ushers in a more pronounced chapter of spring, bringing with it a significant wave of flowering plants that transform landscapes into vibrant displays of color. This month is characterized by a surge in floral activity, where the combination of longer days, warmer temperatures, and the recovery of soil from winter’s chill promotes a burst … Read more

Oregon Grape, scientifically known as Mahonia aquifolium, is a member of the Berberidaceae family, within the genus Mahonia. This genus was once lumped with Berberis (barberry) but is now recognized as distinct, especially due to its unique leaf structure and growth habit. Mahonia aquifolium is further classified under the section Mahonia, which includes species with … Read more

March marks a turning point in the natural world, as vibrant blossoms begin to emerge after the long winter months. These early blooms transform bare landscapes into colorful, lively spaces, signaling the arrival of spring. Their appearance brings a sense of renewal and hope to gardens and wild spaces alike. Often thriving in cool temperatures, … Read more

The Forget-me-not known scientifically as Myosotis alpestris, belongs to the Boraginaceae family, within the genus Myosotis. This genus name comes from the Greek words “mus” (mouse) and “otis” (ear), referring to the shape of the leaves which resemble a mouse’s ear. Myosotis alpestris is classified under the section Myosotis, which groups species with small, often … Read more

The Quaking Aspen, scientifically named Populus tremuloides, belongs to the Salicaceae family, within the genus *Populus*, commonly known as aspen or poplar. It falls under the section Populus, specifically in the subsection *Trepidae*, which is characterized by species with leaves that tremble in the slightest breeze due to their flattened petioles. “Tremuloides” itself hints at … Read more

The Black Hills Spruce, scientifically known as Picea glauca ‘Densata’, is a cultivar of the white spruce, Picea glauca, which belongs to the Pinaceae family. Within its species, this cultivar is distinguished by its denser growth habit and slightly different needle and cone characteristics. Originally, it was considered a variety (var. densata), but due to … Read more

The Western White Pine, scientifically known as Pinus monticola, belongs to the Pinaceae family, within the genus *Pinus*. It falls under the subgenus *Strobus*, which groups the “soft pines,” known for their five-needled fascicles. Pinus monticola is part of the section *Quinquefoliae*, reflecting its characteristic needle count. The species name “monticola” is derived from Latin, … Read more

The Loblolly Pine, known scientifically as Pinus taeda, is part of the Pinaceae family, within the genus *Pinus*. Specifically, it belongs to the subgenus *Pinus*, section Pinus, and subsection *Pinus*, often grouped with other “yellow pines” due to the color of its wood. The species name “taeda” comes from Latin, meaning “pine torch,” referring to … Read more

The Piñon Pine, scientifically named Pinus edulis, is a member of the Pinaceae family, within the genus *Pinus*, subgenus Strobus, section *Parrya*, and subsection *Cembroides*. This classification situates it among the pinyon pines, which are known for their edible seeds or pine nuts. It is often confused or grouped with Pinus monophylla, the single-leaf pinyon, … Read more