Spring blooms

A week or two ago, a wildflower walk meant searching for scattered blossoms. Now the woods are full of blooms. Income taxes are due today, which is a reminder that it's a good time for ephemeral wildflowers in Kalamazoo. Lots of early wildflowers are at their peak, including Dutchman's Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria) [pictured above].


Squirrel Corn (Dicentra canadensis), a close relative, is also in bloom. Its peak is a little later than Dutchman's Breeches.



Spring Beauty are at their peak with hundreds of flowers visible from a single spot.



Perhaps the most colorful display is presented by the Marsh Marigolds.


Trout Lily, False Rue Anenome, and Blue-eyed Mary were also in flower. A few early trillium, phlox and a Jack-in-the-Pulpit hinted at more to come.