Fall wildflowers

We usually think of wildflowers in the spring. But there are some that bloom in the fall. Goldenrod is the iconic flower of fall, often covering roadside areas and fields. Ironweed is another more visible flower, though rarely seen close up, seen in pasture fields starting August. Here are both together:

Goldenrod and Ironweed


Ironweed is often considered just another nuisance weed. They often fill entire pasture areas, creating a swath of purple. Near our home we have a single plant that seems totally misplaced, deep in the woods and far from open fields. It may be a survivor from decades past when the area was a farm. I always watch carefully for it, expecting that any year it will disappear. But it persists. And it is next to our trail, so we can see the flowers up close.


Lone ironweed along the trail


Then there is a lesser known wildflower, white snake root. It is usually seen in wooded areas and is often quite prolific, sometimes covering several acres in open wooded areas.


White snakeroot

My favorite is great blue lobelia. It is much rarer, usually seen in deep woods along streams. We found a cluster of these along a stream on our property after clearing brush for a hiking path. They are beautiful plants with an almost indigo blue flower.


Great blue lobelia plants


Great blue lobelia flowers close up

Keep watching for other natural indicators of fall. They are all around us. If you have fall favorites or questions, let me know or add a comment to this post.