Volume 9, Issue 2-2012 February 2012 Northwest Native ...

The Wild Garden: Hansen’s Northwest Native Plant Database

Northwest Native Plant JournalNorthwest Native Plant JournalVolume 9, Issue 2-2012 February 2012

A Monthly Web Magazine

Hazelnuts..p8

Published by The Wild Garden: Hansen’s Northwest Native Plant Database

Ferns..p23

Perennials..p14


All rights reserved. This entire publication Copyright © 2012 The Wild Garden: Hansen’s Northwest Native Plant Database. No part of this work may bereproduced or used in any form or by any means--graphic, electronic, or mechanical--without the written permission of Jennifer Rehm,The Wild Garden,

except for reviewers who may quote brief passages. Any request for photocopying, recording, taping or information storage and retrieval systems of anypart of this publication shall be directed in writing to the publisher: Jennifer Rehm, The Wild Garden: Hansen’s Northwest Native Plant Database.

Editor: Jennifer RehmEditor: Jennifer RehmEditor: Jennifer RehmEditor: Jennifer RehmEditor: Jennifer RehmWebmaster for The Wild Garden: Hansen’sWebmaster for The Wild Garden: Hansen’sWebmaster for The Wild Garden: Hansen’sWebmaster for The Wild Garden: Hansen’sWebmaster for The Wild Garden: Hansen’s

Northwest Native Plant DatabaseNorthwest Native Plant DatabaseNorthwest Native Plant DatabaseNorthwest Native Plant DatabaseNorthwest Native Plant Databasewww.nwplants.comwww.nwplants.comwww.nwplants.comwww.nwplants.comwww.nwplants.com

e-Mail: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]: chillipepper6@comcast.netwww.chillirose.comwww.chillirose.comwww.chillirose.comwww.chillirose.comwww.chillirose.com

ContentsContentsContentsContentsContentsIn Every IssueIn Every IssueIn Every IssueIn Every IssueIn Every Issue

About this Journal...................3

Garden chores to do now.. ....5

Mystery plant puzzle........... ....6

Native plant web resources..32

On the Cover...........................4

Wildlife Corner........................7This ‘n That

Notes from Jennifer....29

Western HazelnutCorylus cornuta var.

californica...8

Feature ArticlesFeature ArticlesFeature ArticlesFeature ArticlesFeature Articles

Double Duty BeautyPerennials: not just pretty

faces...14

Time for FernsNorthwest Woodland

Stars...23


About this JournalAbout this JournalAbout this JournalAbout this JournalAbout this JournalThis Journal was created under the direction of WallyHansen – a dedicated Grower, Aficionado andPassionate Lover of Northwest Native Plants.

This Journal is not ‘commercial.’ Our goals are:

A — To generate interest, even passion,concerning the magnificent Native Plants of thePacific Northwest.

B — To help you create your own Native PlantGardens, large or small, for home or work.

C — To help you propagate and “grow on” thosespecies that interest you the most.

D — To inform both Home Gardeners andinterested Professionals of many disciplinesconcerning trends and news items from mylittle corner of the world.

E — To help the reader enjoy native plantsmore by understanding the historical andcultural role of native plants (i.e.–use by NativeAmericans, pioneers, early botanists, etc.).

Oemleria cerasiformisOemleria cerasiformisOemleria cerasiformisOemleria cerasiformisOemleria cerasiformis(Indian Plum)(Indian Plum)(Indian Plum)(Indian Plum)(Indian Plum)


Each of these common namesrefers to the Pacific northwestnative shrub, Oemleriacerasiformis.

Very soon, the sleepingbranches of this shadeloving native willsprout bright greenleaves and smallcascades of whiteflowers.Later in the year, thefruit will replace theblossoms, callingwildlife to come andfeast.Come October-November, the leaveschange to yellow anddrop, cloaking theearth for winter rest.

On the Cover: Oemleria cerasiformisOn the Cover: Oemleria cerasiformisOn the Cover: Oemleria cerasiformisOn the Cover: Oemleria cerasiformisOn the Cover: Oemleria cerasiformis

Oemleria cerasiformis (Indian Plum) Prefers moistOemleria cerasiformis (Indian Plum) Prefers moistOemleria cerasiformis (Indian Plum) Prefers moistOemleria cerasiformis (Indian Plum) Prefers moistOemleria cerasiformis (Indian Plum) Prefers moistshade where the branches arch gracefully. Grown inshade where the branches arch gracefully. Grown inshade where the branches arch gracefully. Grown inshade where the branches arch gracefully. Grown inshade where the branches arch gracefully. Grown insun, this native will grow erect to a taller stature. Asun, this native will grow erect to a taller stature. Asun, this native will grow erect to a taller stature. Asun, this native will grow erect to a taller stature. Asun, this native will grow erect to a taller stature. Apair of bright green leaves welcome spring each year.pair of bright green leaves welcome spring each year.pair of bright green leaves welcome spring each year.pair of bright green leaves welcome spring each year.pair of bright green leaves welcome spring each year.

Skunk Bush

Indian PlumOso BerryBird Cherry


February in the native gardenFebruary in the native gardenFebruary in the native gardenFebruary in the native gardenFebruary in the native garden1 – Weather watch: here in the northwest, February and March can bringunexpected surprises. Sunny days may encourage plants to start springbehaviour only to turn frigid in a matter of hours. When freezing weather iseminent, consider draping a light covering over plants added during the pastsummer. Their roots may not have had a chance to reach far enough into theearth to cushion them from a hard freeze. If winds turn harsh, a simplewindbreak can make the difference between a fatally damaged young tree anda healthy upstart.

2 – Continue taking cuttings of deciduous hardwood shrubs and trees forpropagation.

3 – If you yearn for fresh bouquets, try forcing early blooming shrubs. Keepthe little buds healthy by wrapping bunches of branches in wet newspaper, teatowels or any light material. Hold in a cool space with indirect light. As soonas you see them beginning to open, cut the stems again and put in largevases and enjoy. Good native candidates for forcing are the willows (Salix),crab apple (Malus), redbuds (Cercis), serviceberry (Amelanchier). Using thistechnique on Indian Plum (Oemleria cerasiformis) is not recommended. I triedit once and the morning after the blooms came out the bouquet smelled reallybad. I’m sure this is why one of its common names is Skunk Bush.

4 – Some of the more unloved bugs may become active now. Sugar ants often run indoors just before a good rain.A homemade ant bait can be made by mixing boric acid and sugar. Borac acid is poisonous: put this in a pet- orchild-proof container such as an old salt shaker and mark it well. Slugs are not uncommon in early spring. My sisterpicks them off with her fingers and puts them in a bucket of water. If you are squeamish about slimy things, youcan use tweezers, pliers or kitchen tongs. However, one of the natural enemies of slugs are birds so if you canattract feathered friends this could be an added incentive.

“Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly handand for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home.” - Edith Sitwell


Mystery plant puzzleMystery plant puzzleMystery plant puzzleMystery plant puzzleMystery plant puzzle Test your native plant knowledge--identify this tree. The reward is

simple but very satisfying: You willbe included in our list of Official

Plant Detectives.Send me an email

([email protected]) withthe correct botanical name of this

plant.Good luck!

P.S. Do you have a plant you’d liketo identify? Email it to us and we’llshow it here on our Mystery Plant

Puzzle page.

Official Plant DetectivesJerry MurraySabrina KisCarol HilerMike BurnsNancy WhiteheadPat OpdykeLuke KishpaughDave Whitehead

This tree is in my new garden and I’m not sure what it is. The rhodie in the back-This tree is in my new garden and I’m not sure what it is. The rhodie in the back-This tree is in my new garden and I’m not sure what it is. The rhodie in the back-This tree is in my new garden and I’m not sure what it is. The rhodie in the back-This tree is in my new garden and I’m not sure what it is. The rhodie in the back-ground needs no introduction but the tree has me, well, stumped (pun intended).ground needs no introduction but the tree has me, well, stumped (pun intended).ground needs no introduction but the tree has me, well, stumped (pun intended).ground needs no introduction but the tree has me, well, stumped (pun intended).ground needs no introduction but the tree has me, well, stumped (pun intended).


Wildlife CornerWildlife CornerWildlife CornerWildlife CornerWildlife CornerPhotos of our new squirrel family!

Our squirrels are becoming much more friendly, joining the scores of birds for the tasty smorgasbord of black sun-flower seeds and cobs of dried corn. The other day, two robins spent about 30 minutes flipping over the birch leafmulch and eating up the bugs they uncovered.The jays are rather piggish, as I think they tend to be, stripping the ears of dried corn almost as fast as Iput them out on the feeder. Oddly, they don’t seem to be eating as much as they pluck off. I don’t know ifthis is common behaviour for them or something special they’vehatched up. The kernels that land on the ground don’t hold muchattraction for them. Do jays not eat off the ground?

The other birdsforage on thedropped seeds andcorn, as do thesquirrels. But thejays are maybe tooself-important tostoop to groundfeeding. I muststudy them moreand learn theirhabits. Eventhough they arenot my favoritebirds, they surely have redeeming qualities. Maybe they are cham-pion slug eaters. Time will tell.Please accept apologies for these photos. I shot them from in-doors through the window glass. This ploy will workbetter when the windows are clean!


Corylus cornuta var. californica

Western HazelnutWestern HazelnutWestern HazelnutWestern HazelnutWestern Hazelnut

Trillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorum

More

Right now in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, Western Hazelnut (Corylus cornus var. californica) branches are draped inmale catkins. The pale golden streams contrast in pleasant harmony with the grey-brown bark and sway gracefullyin spring breezes. Texturally, these catkins resemble chenille. In fact they are soft to the touch, much like that oldfashioned fabric much favored for bedspreads and bathrobes in the 1950’s.

An old hazelnut was the cornerstone of agarden where I once lived. It had been mostlyignored by previous residents and as a resultwas allowed to grow in its natural clumpingform.I had moved there in the fall when the plenti-ful nuts from many years blanketed the yardin varying conditions from cracked emptyshells to young ones tightly clasped in palegreen husks.Once the moving-in hullabaloo was over,neighborhood squirrels were frequent visitors,helping themselves to the viable nuts andleaving the shells to the garden.The leaves of this tree gradually turnedgolden yellow and drifted down atop the nuts.Having never known a hazelnut tree before, Iobserved the progression of autumn to winterfrom my kitchen window.

Western Hazelnut in January, maleWestern Hazelnut in January, maleWestern Hazelnut in January, maleWestern Hazelnut in January, maleWestern Hazelnut in January, malecatkins and dark brown bark.catkins and dark brown bark.catkins and dark brown bark.catkins and dark brown bark.catkins and dark brown bark. Photo from Arbor Day Foundation website, arborday.comPhoto from Arbor Day Foundation website, arborday.comPhoto from Arbor Day Foundation website, arborday.comPhoto from Arbor Day Foundation website, arborday.comPhoto from Arbor Day Foundation website, arborday.com


Western Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedThe other trees andshrubs, deciduous everyone, lost their leaves andrevealed their innermostessences as the winterquietly creeped into thelandscape. The squirrelsstill rummaged about tofind filberts previouslyoverlooked. They dugaround the edges of theyard retrieving who knewwhat treasures.I gave little mind to thegarden, it would care foritself as it had for years.The wildlife--birds andsquirrels and possums--had their run throughout,no interference from lowlyhumans. They providedmuch entertainment withtheir antics and interac-tions, augmented by a fewlocal cats who undoubtedlyviewed the smaller wildones as their personal foodsource.

MoreHazelnut orchard nearHazelnut orchard nearHazelnut orchard nearHazelnut orchard nearHazelnut orchard nearIndependence, OregonIndependence, OregonIndependence, OregonIndependence, OregonIndependence, Oregon


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Western Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continued

This unique specimen retained its autumnThis unique specimen retained its autumnThis unique specimen retained its autumnThis unique specimen retained its autumnThis unique specimen retained its autumncoloured leaves but put forth the male catkinscoloured leaves but put forth the male catkinscoloured leaves but put forth the male catkinscoloured leaves but put forth the male catkinscoloured leaves but put forth the male catkinsin tune with the earth’s natural timetable.in tune with the earth’s natural timetable.in tune with the earth’s natural timetable.in tune with the earth’s natural timetable.in tune with the earth’s natural timetable.

Imagine if you will my astonishment when,right after the dawning of a new year I glancedout the kitchen window and saw that the ha-zelnut had cloaked itself with willowy catkins.They softened the harsh framework of the treeand appeared to my novice eye to be strings oftiny blossoms.Was this a ‘weeping’ form of tree? What woudhappen next? I knew from initial introductionthat the summer leaves did not ‘weep.’My favorite tree up to that moment was aweeping willow. Now here was a tree with thedraping quality plus a nut I consider the finestin the land, and outstanding fall color.Needless to say, this tree became precious tome, endearing itself in what seems to be alifelong love. To honor and celebrate my newfriend, I dug my first pond at the edge of itsumbrella. It shaded the swing where I read theevening paper and napped on Sunday morn-ings. Each of my subsequent gardens has hada filbert tree in remembrance of this wonderfulfirst love.


Hazelnuts, also called filberts, usually come in twos orHazelnuts, also called filberts, usually come in twos orHazelnuts, also called filberts, usually come in twos orHazelnuts, also called filberts, usually come in twos orHazelnuts, also called filberts, usually come in twos orthrees. When they are fully grown they drop naturally tothrees. When they are fully grown they drop naturally tothrees. When they are fully grown they drop naturally tothrees. When they are fully grown they drop naturally tothrees. When they are fully grown they drop naturally tothe ground where those that escape being snatched up bythe ground where those that escape being snatched up bythe ground where those that escape being snatched up bythe ground where those that escape being snatched up bythe ground where those that escape being snatched up by

squirrels or other wild things can be gathered for thesquirrels or other wild things can be gathered for thesquirrels or other wild things can be gathered for thesquirrels or other wild things can be gathered for thesquirrels or other wild things can be gathered for thepantry after their protective husks are removed.pantry after their protective husks are removed.pantry after their protective husks are removed.pantry after their protective husks are removed.pantry after their protective husks are removed.

Western Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedFemale catkins, much shorter than the pendulousFemale catkins, much shorter than the pendulousFemale catkins, much shorter than the pendulousFemale catkins, much shorter than the pendulousFemale catkins, much shorter than the pendulousmales. They will morph to fruit which are about 3/4males. They will morph to fruit which are about 3/4males. They will morph to fruit which are about 3/4males. They will morph to fruit which are about 3/4males. They will morph to fruit which are about 3/4inch in diameter. The two bracts conceal the nutsinch in diameter. The two bracts conceal the nutsinch in diameter. The two bracts conceal the nutsinch in diameter. The two bracts conceal the nutsinch in diameter. The two bracts conceal the nutsfrom weather and wildlife while they mature.from weather and wildlife while they mature.from weather and wildlife while they mature.from weather and wildlife while they mature.from weather and wildlife while they mature.

in Oregon’s Willamette Va

More


More

Western Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continued

Hazelnuts, roasted and ready to eat. Photo byHazelnuts, roasted and ready to eat. Photo byHazelnuts, roasted and ready to eat. Photo byHazelnuts, roasted and ready to eat. Photo byHazelnuts, roasted and ready to eat. Photo byVicki Nunn, Creative CommonsVicki Nunn, Creative CommonsVicki Nunn, Creative CommonsVicki Nunn, Creative CommonsVicki Nunn, Creative Commons

Willamette Valley farmers have grown filberts as a cash crop for decades.The climate here is exactly right and the nuts remain a favorite around theworld. It’s a partnership that was perfectly natural until the introduction ofEastern Filbert Blight in 1973. This devastating disease is caused by thefungus Anisogramma anomola, indigenous to the Northeast US, and is thechief cause of the Northeast US failure at hazelnut farming. The lethaldisease could not be controlled. However, hope is on the horizon. OregonState University announced on January 25, 2012, the upcoming release of anew commercial hazelnut variety that is resistant to EFB. The trees of thisnew cultivar are about half the size of the current standard and the nutsare said to be outstanding.

The Oregon Hazelnut Marketing Board’s website (see their logoabove), has the best information on harvesting, storing, roastingand a wide variety of recipes using these great tasting nuts.Here’s their roasting guide:

Roasting hazelnuts intensifies their unique flavor and develops theircolor. Best results can be achieved using a low temperature andlonger time. To roast kernels, spread whole kernels in a single layer ona baking sheet and bake at 275 degrees F. for 15-20 minutes. Takecare not to over roast as nuts can scorch quickly. To remove skins,wrap warm hazelnuts in a terry towel and let them sit for 5 to 10minutes. Rub vigorously in towel. Many varieties do not loose theirskins entirely, which is positive because they add nutrients as well ascolor in many applications.

An alternative method is to place nuts on a cooling rack on a cookiesheet. After roasting, rub nuts vigorously across the rack – letting theskins fall through to the cookie sheet.


Turkey Nut BurgerTurkey Nut BurgerTurkey Nut BurgerTurkey Nut BurgerTurkey Nut Burger

Western Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedWestern Hazelnut, continuedThe recipes on the board’s website include Hazelnut Parmesan Crisps, Hazelnut, Orange & Yogurt Muffins, CornSaute with Hazelnuts, Hazelnut Rum Fudge, and Hazelnut Baked Apples just to name a few. This entree soundsintriguing and healthy.Oregon Trail Risotto-Oregon Hazelnut-Sausage Mix· 5 German or Italian sausages (1 1/2 lbs.)· 1 1/2 cups red onion, coarsely chopped· 2 tablespoons butter· 1 green pepper, coarsely chopped· 1 red pepper, coarsely chopped· 2 bananas, sliced· 3/4 cup halved Oregon hazelnuts· 1/2 cup currants or raisins· 4 cups cooked rice· salt and pepper to taste· Garnish:

· 2-3 hard-cooked eggs, sieved· Finely chopped parsley, basil, chives

Serves 6

Brown the sausages in large frying pan or electric skillet. Drain sausage and cut intochunks. Melt butter in skillet and add chopped onions. Cover and cook until onionsare barely tender. Add peppers and sauté until barely tender. Add rice, sausage andsalt and pepper tossing with a fork until hot. Add raisins, bananas, and Oregonhazelnuts and carefully toss together. Season to taste. Serve on a heated platter. Topwith sieved egg and herb mixture. Excellent brunch dish.

The official Oregon Hazelnut Board website: www.oregonhazelnuts.orgThe official Oregon Hazelnut Board website: www.oregonhazelnuts.orgThe official Oregon Hazelnut Board website: www.oregonhazelnuts.orgThe official Oregon Hazelnut Board website: www.oregonhazelnuts.orgThe official Oregon Hazelnut Board website: www.oregonhazelnuts.org


Mimulus guttatus (Monkey Flower)Mimulus guttatus (Monkey Flower)Mimulus guttatus (Monkey Flower)Mimulus guttatus (Monkey Flower)Mimulus guttatus (Monkey Flower) More

Double Duty BeautyDouble Duty BeautyDouble Duty BeautyDouble Duty BeautyDouble Duty BeautyPerennials: not just pretty faces

In creating a landscape design, trees are usually selectedfirst because they are the largest and most permanentelement--the skeleton if you will. Next, shrubs are chosenfor shape, texture and colors that will marry the tree to therest of the garden. The remaining space is shared byhardscape elements such as rocks, fountains, trellis, seat-ing and the like.Usually a common area with some sort of groundcover willbe included. The standard here was once ‘lawn,’ a space ofnon-native grass requiring regular mowing, watering, weed-ing and other labor intensive and usually ecologically harm-ful kinds of maintenance.Little by little, the ‘lawn’ idea has been revised to the cre-ative use of other groundcovers, even native plants. Forinstance, Kinnikinnik (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), Wild Ginger(Asarum caudatum), or Creeping Oregon Grape (Mahoniarepens) are all excellent to cover this common ground.All these elements are important in some form or other butanother level of plant is wanted for softness, for change,for flowers to pick and sweet fragrances to pique our inter-est and give us a kick or spike of enjoyment. Enter now theperennials: plants that are planted once and come backeach year. They are more tender than shrubs and usuallyhave some kind of flower that often, but not always, istheir most attractive feature.


Aquilegia formosa (Red Columbine)Aquilegia formosa (Red Columbine)Aquilegia formosa (Red Columbine)Aquilegia formosa (Red Columbine)Aquilegia formosa (Red Columbine) More

Double Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedMost native perennials have one attribute that may be considered a drawback--they put on one single show andthen return to the background where they are largely ignored until the next year when the process is played anew.Landscape designers in England are famous for devising a group of perennials that give a succession of display, themuch loved and often copied English perennial border. In their gardens, something is always in bloom, a variety of

flowers and greenery offering a virtual kaliedoscope ofbeauty.But what if there were another, different and surprising wayto enjoy the perennials? What if the perennial border be-came the vegetable garden? What if the plants we love sowell outdoors came into the kitchen to appear on the sup-per table?It’s more than fantasy. A large assortment of northwestnative perennial plants may, indeed, be edible. And they’renot just safe to eat, they are said to be actually delicious!A word of caution is necessary here: before you take onestep toward eating plants, be sure you know precisely whatyou are contemplating. Plants from somewhere outside yourcontrol (such as alongside a road or in the woods or fromsomeone else’s garden) may not be safe to eat. Their envi-ronment could have been contaminated by chemicals oranimals or who knows what. Even if you feel sure theirsource is pristine, the plant must be positively identified.Most important, the edibility of each plant must be verifiedby a creditable source.That point made, let us proceed to the possible menuitems!


Trillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorumTrillium parviflorum

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Double Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedAllium acuminatum (Hooker’s Onion)

Flowers have a slight onion taste,delicious in a salad or stir-fried. The

bulbs are edible as well.

Asarum caudatum (Wild Ginger)

Some use this native for flavoring, thetaste is similar to ginger roots. However,the FDA recommends this plant be usedexternally only, and caution against usinginternally.

Aquilegia formosa (Red Columbine)

For a sweet treat, the little bulb-like end ofColumbine flower spurs contain a sweet

nectar that bursts in your mouth. Sample foryourself! Such a divine addition sprinkled

atop a slice of buttered toast.

Anaphalis margaritacea (PearlyEverlasting)

Leaves and young plants can beeaten when cooked.


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Double Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedCalochortus bruneaunis (Mariposa Lily)

Bulbs can be eaten raw or cooked. Theystore well when dried, then boiled in soups

or ground and used as flour. Photo byKathleen Nelson for US Forest Service.

Camassia quamash (Common camas)

Use bulbs for flavoring, as avegetable or inpies. Cover with water and boil until most ofthe liquid is evaporated. Makes a naturalsweetener, sort of like molasses. After seedsare ripe in spring, dig roots. Cook in fire pitfor 24 hours. Cooked bulbs can be flattenedinto a cake and dried.

Cornus unalaschkensis (Bunchberry)

Fruit and berries can be eaten fresh orcooked instead of blackberries.

Epilobium angustifolium (Fireweed)

Young leaves and stalks are good greensand are rich in vitamins A and C.


More

Erythronium grandiflorum (YellowGlacier-Lily)

Bulb is edible, peeled. They are bestafter a long slow cook which turns

them chocolate brown.

Double Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continued

Heracleum lanatum (Cow parsnip)

For flavoring or as a vegetable, lowerpart of plant, tender leaves and flowerstalks or roots are edible. Use the lowerpart of plant as salt substitute. Tenderleaves and flower stalks can be eaten asvegetable, have a sweet flavor. Rootscan be cooked like rutabaga.

Gaultheria shallon (Salal)

Fruit can be eaten out of hand or usedfor making jelly.

Fragaria (Wild strawberries)

Fruit good to eat fresh or make jam, jelly,wine, tea. Fruit and leaves can be used freshor dried for tea. Very high in vitamin C.Several wild strawberries are native to thenorthwest.Shown here: Fragaria vesca (Wood’s Strawberry)Shown here: Fragaria vesca (Wood’s Strawberry)Shown here: Fragaria vesca (Wood’s Strawberry)Shown here: Fragaria vesca (Wood’s Strawberry)Shown here: Fragaria vesca (Wood’s Strawberry)


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Oplopanax horridus (Devil’s Club)

Roots can be cooked and eaten. Young stemsare best when cooked, but the young leavescan be eaten raw.

Double Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedLilium columbianum (Tiger Lily)

The flowers, seeds and bulbs are edible raw.It is recommended when cooking bulbs that

they are boiled with several changes ofwater to soften the bitter, peppery taste.

Maianthemum racemosum (False Solomon’sSeal)

The berries are edible, good source of vitaminC. Traditionally they were stored in cooledgrease. Young shoots and green parts of theyoung plants are best when cooked, as is therhizome.

Mimulus guttatus (Monkeyflower)

Young stems and leaves are delicious insalad. Roots are astringent, beneficial

dressing or poultice for wounds.


Sagittaria latifolia (Wapato)

Rhizome and tubers are edible. They can becooked or eaten raw. One of this plant’scommon names is Indian Potato. Theunwashed raw tubers will store for severalmonths or they can be cooked, sliced anddried, then boiled to eat months later. Thestems are also edible.


More

Oxalis oregana (Wood sorrel)

Leaves: steep as tea, drink cold oruse them fresh in salad. Kiowa

Nation were known to chew thisplant to alleviate thirst.

Petasites (Coltsfoot)

Young stems with flowers can beroasted, boiled or stir-fried. Leavescan be treated like spinach. Photoby Andreas Trepte, CreativeCommons licensing.

Polygonum glycyrrhiza (Licorice Fern)

Roots: roast or boil young roots. Use oldroots the same as rhubarb. Cook young

leaves in soups, eat raw as salad.



More

Solidago (Goldenrod)

Plants can be cooked and eaten.Flowers and seeds are edible raw.

Typha latifolia (Cattails)

Most of the plant is edible. Rhizomes can beeaten raw or boiled. The white part of the

stem is more tender than the upper area. Boilor eat raw. Cook leaves as you would spinach.The cattail top can be eaten in early summer,

much like an ear of corn.Viola (Violet)

The entire plant is edible raw. The flowers arequite sweet and lovely in a salad. New leavescan be eaten cooked. Several violets arenative here in the Pacific northwest.Shown here: Yellow Violet (ViolaShown here: Yellow Violet (ViolaShown here: Yellow Violet (ViolaShown here: Yellow Violet (ViolaShown here: Yellow Violet (Violaglabella)glabella)glabella)glabella)glabella)

Trillium ovatum (Western Trillium)

This is a protected species, mostly becausewhen the flower is picked it can take up toseven years for it to bloom again. However, ifyou grow them in your own garden you canpick the leaves to eat--excellent in salad.


References:

The Art of Manliness, www.artofmanliness.com/2010/10/06/surviving-in-the-wild-19-common-edible-plants/

Common Edible Wild Plants, www.jerileewei.hubpages.com/hub/Common-Edible-Wild-Plants---Part-I

Gardening from the Ground Up, www.gardeningfromthegroundup.us/Edible%20wild%20plants.htm

Loghouse Museum, www.loghousemuseum.info/exhibits/log-house-museum-northwest-native-plant-gardens/

Northern Bushcraft, www.northernbushcraft.com/plants/index.htm

Oregon WildBlog, www.oregonwild.org

Practical Survivor, www.practicalsurvivor.com/wildedibleplants

Southwest School of Botanical Medicine, www.swsbm.com/ManualsOther/UsefulPlants/Useful_Wild_Plants-5.PDF

Stalking the Wild Asparagus by Euell Gibbons

Trails.com, www.trails.com/list_2512_edible-wild-plants-pacific-northwest.html

Wildwood Survival, www.wildwoodsurvival.com/survival/food/edibleplants/

Double Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedDouble Duty Beauty, continuedThere are several organizations that offer classes about edible native plants.A search for “wildcrafting” on the internet will yield a list of them. I’ve notattended any of them as yet, but would love to hear about your experiencesif you go to one.One final note: Lots of native shrubs and trees also have very edible parts.Don’t limit yourself only to perennials. Take organic gardening to a new level!


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Time for FernsTime for FernsTime for FernsTime for FernsTime for FernsNorthwest Woodland Stars

Pacific northwest ferns are beginning to sprout new growth. The unusually mild pre-spring weather has kick-startedthem a little earlier than usual, but it’s all good. Ferns look delicate but most are pretty tough.

Here is a little photoessay beginning withMaidenhair Fern, Adian-tum aleuticum. It isdeciduous and dainty,grows from 1-2 feet tallduring the year.Maidenhair likes cool,damp areas where itnestles into crevices inrocks. It particularlyenjoys being near mov-ing water. The mist com-ing from a waterfallseems to be a favorite.Put this one near a foun-tain among Twinflower(Linnaea borealis var.longiflora), Vanilla Leaf(Achlys triphylla), WildGinger (Asarumcaudatum), or StreamViolet (Viola glabella).


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Time for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedLady Fern,Athyrium filix-femina var.cyclosorum is de-ciduous and tall--upto 6.’The fronds each forma diamond of feath-ery foliage.Lady Fern is partialto a sheltered,shady spot wherewind won’t damageit, and it wantsmoist soil.This tall plant is anatural for the backof a border. The LadyFerns in my yard areunderplanted withviolets but WildGinger (Asarumcaudatum),Bunchberry (Cornusunalaschkensis) orWestern Trillium(Trillium ovatum ssp.ovatum) would do aswell..


Time for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedDeer Fern,Blechnum spicant isa smaller evergreennative fern, reachingheights of only 12-24.”

The low-growingsterile fronds spreadhorizontally from abasal tuft, while thefertile fronds are thinand deciduous andgrow erect, directlyfrom the center ofthe evergreenrosette. Overall, theplant is verycompact. This growthhabit adds to themystique of DeerFern.

This plant will growin sun or shade but itdoes requiremoisture. The moresun it gets, the morewater it needs.

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Fresh fertile fronds are shown on page 2. Eye-catching and lovelyFresh fertile fronds are shown on page 2. Eye-catching and lovelyFresh fertile fronds are shown on page 2. Eye-catching and lovelyFresh fertile fronds are shown on page 2. Eye-catching and lovelyFresh fertile fronds are shown on page 2. Eye-catching and lovely


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Time for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedCoastal ShieldFern, Dryopterisarguta is a beauti-ful evergreen fernwhich toleratesmore sun than mostother northwestnative ferns.In the wild, it growson steep woodedslopes or on sunnyriverbanks along thePacific Coast, westof the Cascades,and into Arizona.Like most otherferns, this woodfernappreciates a bit ofmoisture.The lacy frondsgrow in clustersfrom the creepingrhizome and reachone to three feettall when mature.In Canada, this fernis considered en-dangered.


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Time for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedLicorice Fern, Polypodiumglycyrrhiza is unusual andattractive, two feet tall,growing directly from mosson rocks, trees or fallen logs.Some preferred hosts are BigLeaf Maple (Acermacrophyllum) and Garry Oak(Quercus garryana var.garryana).

Having an opposite dormantseason to most plants, theLicorice Fern will dry up insummer drought, only togreen up immediately withthe first fall rains and staygreen all winter.

The rootstocks have a licoriceflavor and reportedly havebeen chewed for the flavor aswell as medicinal purposes ormixed with foul-tastingmedicinal plants to improvetheir flavor.

Licorice Ferns, Liverwort andLicorice Ferns, Liverwort andLicorice Ferns, Liverwort andLicorice Ferns, Liverwort andLicorice Ferns, Liverwort andMoss, Washington Park by JMoss, Washington Park by JMoss, Washington Park by JMoss, Washington Park by JMoss, Washington Park by JBrew via Creative CommonsBrew via Creative CommonsBrew via Creative CommonsBrew via Creative CommonsBrew via Creative Commons


Time for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedTime for Ferns, continuedSword Fern, Polystichummunitum, a magnificentevergreen fern, tall andwide with up to 100 frondsfrom two to five feet inlength. Beloved by floristsand gardeners alike, SwordFern is globally admired butmost successfully grown inthe Pacific northwest.

It is a long-lived fern, veryhardy, and is notsusceptible to damage bydeer.

In the wild, Sword Ferngrows mainly in coniferousforests where shade andmoisture is abundant. Theclumps at left wereflourishing just at the edgeof a forested area wherethe gravel road cut throughthe woods. Their beautycame naturally in harmonywith their surroundings, nohuman assistance wasrequired. Gorgeous!


This & ThatThis & ThatThis & ThatThis & ThatThis & ThatNotes from JenniferNotes from JenniferNotes from JenniferNotes from JenniferNotes from JenniferNature has begun to reveal the identities of theshrubs in my garden! There are flower budsgalore, forming on almost every bush. Somegreenery is pushing up through the mulch,probably bulbs or perennials.

Last week I cut a few fern fronds, some azaleaand a couple of snippets from an unknown shrubthat may be a kind of snowberry and placedthem in a vase on our dining room table.

Yesterday I noticed there are now small flowersat the ends of these little cuttings. I don’t knowyet what they are because their indoor bloom isprobably a bit looser and less colorful than theiroutdoor parent but even these accidentallyforced flowers have a faint fragrance.

The birches have little catkins at the ends ofthe branches. The old bark is peeling more,leaving small pieces of white here and there.It’s most noticeable on the mossy pathways.Recent windy rainy days have swept smallbranches off the trees. (Wind and rain are thetools nature uses for housekeeping.)

I shot this willow a few years ago. It was growing atI shot this willow a few years ago. It was growing atI shot this willow a few years ago. It was growing atI shot this willow a few years ago. It was growing atI shot this willow a few years ago. It was growing atthe edge of an agricultural canal, an experimentalthe edge of an agricultural canal, an experimentalthe edge of an agricultural canal, an experimentalthe edge of an agricultural canal, an experimentalthe edge of an agricultural canal, an experimentalwatering system that includes the grasses and willowswatering system that includes the grasses and willowswatering system that includes the grasses and willowswatering system that includes the grasses and willowswatering system that includes the grasses and willowsin its design.in its design.in its design.in its design.in its design.

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This & That, continuedThis & That, continuedThis & That, continuedThis & That, continuedThis & That, continued

Until next time,JenniferJenniferJenniferJenniferJennifer Julie put this little container garden together when the nurs-Julie put this little container garden together when the nurs-Julie put this little container garden together when the nurs-Julie put this little container garden together when the nurs-Julie put this little container garden together when the nurs-

ery was still open. Such a lot of beauty in such a small space.ery was still open. Such a lot of beauty in such a small space.ery was still open. Such a lot of beauty in such a small space.ery was still open. Such a lot of beauty in such a small space.ery was still open. Such a lot of beauty in such a small space.

I met one of the squirrels last evening whenMaggie and I went for a stroll. We bothinstantly froze in place when we heard thenoise his feet made on the other side of thebirch we were passing. He peeped around theside and I said hello. He observed us, quite asmotionless as we were, and I spoke again,“Hello, squirrel.” He then jumped to the feederwhere we could all see one another, right outin the open.

A slight tug on Maggie’s leash and we walkedslowly away, the squirrel watching us. Therewas no apparent fear or alarm on the face ofeither pup or squirrel. It was simply anamicable chance meeting.

The birds, however, are not as friendly as thissquirrel but in time I trust this may alsoimprove.

I’m planning changes to make this year in thegarden. For sure, there will be fruit bearingshrubs and at least one wildlife friendlygroundcover. Huckleberries, one of the thicketforming rubus species and a wild strawberryare on the list. Can’t wait!


The Year of the DragonThe Year of the DragonThe Year of the DragonThe Year of the DragonThe Year of the DragonGong Xi Fa Ca!Gong Xi Fa Ca!Gong Xi Fa Ca!Gong Xi Fa Ca!Gong Xi Fa Ca!

The new year in China begins with the springfestival. Couplets such as those at left aretraditionally placed on doors while the one

below was designed for a window. The springfestival is in harmony with this day in Oregon.

May you have a happy and prosperous newMay you have a happy and prosperous newMay you have a happy and prosperous newMay you have a happy and prosperous newMay you have a happy and prosperous newyear.year.year.year.year.

A Tradition from Around the WorldA Tradition from Around the WorldA Tradition from Around the WorldA Tradition from Around the WorldA Tradition from Around the World


Useful Native Plant Resources on the WebUseful Native Plant Resources on the WebUseful Native Plant Resources on the WebUseful Native Plant Resources on the WebUseful Native Plant Resources on the Web

American Bonsai SocietyThe bonsai organization for North America, including Mexico, the United States, and Canada.www.absbonsai.org/

BirdchickHundreds of photos of birds, bees, butterflies and other friendlies. Sharon Stitelershares the joys of birding as well as insights on rabbits.www.birdchick.com/

CalPhotosOver 33,000 plant images from the University of California, Berkleywww.elib.cs.berkeley.edu/photos/

Cornell University online grafting courseFrom the Dept. of Floriculture and Ornamental Horticulture College of Agriculture& Life Sciences at Cornell U. Kenneth W. Mudge, Assoc. Professor of Horticulturewww.instruct1.cit.cornell.edu/courses/hort494/graftage/hort494.index.html

E-Flora BC: Electronic Atlas of the Plants of British ColumbiaBeautiful site, volunteer-driven. “A comprehensive picture of the plant and fungalbiodiversity of British Columbia.” Many thanks to Mary Sanseverino for suggestingthis site be included in our list of botanical web resources. (See her photos onFlicker and her website at www.webhome.csc.uvic.ca/~msanseve/)www.geog.ubc.ca/biodiversity/eflora/

Fire effects on plant speciesUSDA, Forest Service site summarizes and synthesizes research about living organisms inthe United States—their biology, ecology, and relationship to fire.www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/

Here is a good collection of web data bases and other gardening topics that will be useful to professional growersand all native plant gardeners. This list began from a flyer Lawyer Nursery published in 2002 grew from there.

Kinnikinnik, BearberryKinnikinnik, BearberryKinnikinnik, BearberryKinnikinnik, BearberryKinnikinnik, Bearberry(Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)(Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)(Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)(Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)(Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)

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Flora of North America Web SiteTaxonomic relationships, distributions, morphological characteristics of all plants native and naturalized found in North America.www.hua.huh.harvard.edu/FNA/

Forest Types of the United StatesMaps of the most common forest types.www.forestry.about.com/library/tree/bltypdex.htm

Growit.com Rooting Database“Extensive information on rooting cuttings of woody plants, organized bybotanical name. Developed for commercial growers.”www.growit.com/Know/Rooting.htm

Julie’s Backyard JournalBlog by insightful gardenerwww.backyardjournal.wordpress.com/

ModernBackyardLandscape architecture provides exceptional, affordable landscape designonline.www.modernbackyard.com

The Native Plant Networkwww.nativeplants.for.uidaho.edu/network/

Northwest Plants Database SystemFrom Washington State University and WSU Clark County Extension PNWPlants, this database has 481 catergorized plants and 1458 images.www.pnwplants.wsu.edu

Noxious Weed ControlSearch function, can be shown in text onlywww.oregon.gov/ODA/PLANT/WEEDS/statelist2.shtml

Oregon Invasive Species CouncilInvasive list, how to report invasiveswww.oregon.gov/OISC/

Useful Native Plant Resources, continuedUseful Native Plant Resources, continuedUseful Native Plant Resources, continuedUseful Native Plant Resources, continuedUseful Native Plant Resources, continued

Bunchberry, PigeonberryBunchberry, PigeonberryBunchberry, PigeonberryBunchberry, PigeonberryBunchberry, Pigeonberry(Cornus unalaschkensis)(Cornus unalaschkensis)(Cornus unalaschkensis)(Cornus unalaschkensis)(Cornus unalaschkensis)

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Portland Bureau of Environmental ServicesInformation about caring for our earth. Download their Native Plant Poster, plant list and brochure on removing invasive plants.www.portlandonline.com/bes/index.cfm?c=29323

River Corridor and Wetland RestorationEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA) sitewww.epa.gov/owow/wetlands/restore/

Soil Science Society of AmericaWebsite for soil science professionals. Offers information and links.www.soils.org/

Starflower FoundationFounded in 1996 by Ann Lennart to assist with creation, rehabilitation, andstewardship of Pacific Northwest native plant communities.www.wnps.org/landscaping/herbarium/#starflower

USDA PLANTS DatabaseSearchable for common or botanical name, shows origin, range and statuswww.plants.usda.gov/

Washington Native Plant SocietyAppreciate, conserve and study our native plants and habitatswww.wnps.org

Wildflower Trails of the San Francisco Bay AreaExcellent photography and trail guides.www.westernwildflower.com/

Woody Plant Seed ManualManual by the US Forest Service covering seed biology, genetic improvement of foresttrees, seed testing, certification of tree seeds and other woody plant materials, and nursery practices.www.nsl.fs.fed.us/wpsm/

Useful Native Plant Resources, continuedUseful Native Plant Resources, continuedUseful Native Plant Resources, continuedUseful Native Plant Resources, continuedUseful Native Plant Resources, continued

Mahala MatMahala MatMahala MatMahala MatMahala Mat(Ceanothus prostratus)(Ceanothus prostratus)(Ceanothus prostratus)(Ceanothus prostratus)(Ceanothus prostratus)

Volume 9, Issue 2-2012 February 2012 Northwest Native ...

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Transcript of Volume 9, Issue 2-2012 February 2012 Northwest Native ...