Jewels of April

 The end of April is fast approaching.  The days of strong winds have been mixed with some wet snow  to limit the days suitable for wildflowers. Still, there have been some nice finds.  Early April reveals Sharp-lobed Hepatica.  Notice that sharp-lobed leaves appear old. Right!  They are last years. Unlike many plants, this one blooms before setting the current year's leaves.  Perhaps they are the only flowers out there for bees and get more visitors?

Another early blooming plant is Marsh Marigold.   (Not really a marigold.)  It loves wet, swampy places. 

 

My boots are usually muddy when I am photographing Marsh Marigolds.  (Add muddy knees to get down to its level.)   Perhaps that is why it is often overlooked.  The flower is a sturdy five petal bloom with a waxy surface. 

Another often overlooked plant is Blue Cohosh.  It has subtle coloration that doesn't catch your eye from a distance.  During the flowering stage, the plant often lacks even the expected green stalks.  (See below.)

 

        

A closer look at the flower reveals why I appreciate it's beauty.

Another April flowering wildflower is Bellwort.   It often is found in large clusters in wooded areas.  Over the years, I have never seen the yellow petals spread out in welcoming array for insects.   Seems a better common name would be Weeping Bellwort.  Still, I love the rich yellow and green display.

I am saving the last for two of my favorites.  Trout Lily (or Adder's Tongue) is another wildflower of the dry woodlands. Only opens its petals when the sun is bright, presumably timing that to peak bee activity.

I find it a graceful flower to explore in detail.

Finally,  here is royalty among the April display.  Purple Trillium,  Trillium erectum,  stands nobly on a steep slope in the Mundy Wildflower garden at Cornell Botanic Garden.

This is a mix of subjects, some overlooked and others eager sought each year.  I hope this encourages viewers to look past the obvious and appreciate the less noticed.  They are all jewels.

Paul Schmitt