Small Signs of Spring

Some folks wait eagerly for crocuses and daffodils to bloom, but wild flower fans also like to see less flashy harbingers of spring.

One of these sure signs of the season is Vernal Whitlow Grass, which can now be seen on the front lawn of Grace Episcopal Church and in many other locations if you look closely.

While waiting in Fanwood for a train back to Plainfield, I spotted a patch of Dead Nettle. (Click to enlarge any image.)

 The structure of its small flowers show it is in the Mint family.

Speedwell flowers are a heavenly blue and may soon be seen in the grass at Cedar Brook Park.

This clump of Wild Onions looks like grass, but pull one up and you will see the white bulb that looks like a scallion. Some say they are one and the same.

Still at the Fanwood station - here are some buds of Leatherleaf Viburnum waiting for warmer weather to bloom.

Back on Block 832 in Plainfield, the humble but (to me) cheerful Chickweed. I can't say I have ever eaten any, but I like its starry flowers.

Take a look at the links for more about these plants. I hope you enjoy this break from politics and municipal meeting notes.

--Bernice