Category: Flowers

Discovering the Delicate Beauty of Mitella Diphylla in Treman Gorge

As you wander virtually through Treman Gorge, let yourself be charmed by the delicate Mitella diphylla. Discover this modest yet mesmerizing wildflower, a hidden gem among the forest’s early spring tapestry.

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As I rediscover the wonders of Treman Gorge this spring, I stumbled upon a delightful surprise nestled among the leaf litter—an encounter with Mitella diphylla, commonly known as the bishop’s cap or two-leaved miterwort. This charming wildflower, modest yet mesmerizing, seemed to beckon with its understated beauty, provoking a sense of wonder at its delicate presence.

The name Mitella diphylla is a poetic nod to its physical form—’Mitella’ meaning ‘little mitre,’ a reference to the small, mitre-shaped capsules of the fruit, and ‘diphylla,’ meaning ‘two leaves,’ highlighting its characteristic pair of basal leaves. This etymology whimsically captures the essence of the bishop’s cap, a plant whose morphology and name alike hint at a past intertwined with religious symbolism and natural history.

Physically, Mitella diphylla is a study in grace and efficiency. Its slender, upright stems rise unassumingly from the forest floor, crowned by a spire of tiny, star-like white flowers. Each flower, though no more than a whisper on the wind, is a masterpiece of design, with five deeply cut petals that seem to twinkle against the backdrop of the gorge’s dappled light. The leaves, broad and heart-shaped, lay a verdant carpet at the base, completing this picturesque plant profile.

Nestled in the cool, moist understory of Treman Gorge, the bishop’s cap finds its ideal habitat. Here, under the canopy of mature deciduous trees, it plays a subtle yet significant role in the ecosystem. The flowers, though not flamboyant, are a crucial nectar source for early spring pollinators, who are drawn to its discreet charm. The plant’s presence also speaks to the health of its woodland habitat—thriving in undisturbed soil, where it forms part of a complex web of flora and fauna.

Discovering Mitella diphylla in its natural setting was a reminder of the layered complexity and interconnectedness of our ecosystems. Each element, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, holds a place in the narrative of the natural world. To encounter such a wildflower is to be gifted a moment of connection with the past and a simple, pure joy in the persistence of nature’s subtle beauties.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

The Resilience and Beauty of the Heartleaf Foamflower

Step into the enchanting world of the Heartleaf Foamflower in Treman Gorge. Marvel at its star-like blossoms and explore its tale of resilience and beauty—a hidden gem in the lush forest floor.

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Amid the echoing call of the Treman gorge, the Heartleaf Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia) emerges as a charming herald of spring. This modest yet captivating wildflower, with its star-like blossoms and heart-shaped leaves, offers a delightful study of nature’s intricate designs and adaptations.

Natural History of Heartleaf Foamflower

Tiarella cordifolia, commonly known as Heartleaf Foamflower, belongs to the saxifrage family. It thrives under the dappled shade of deciduous forests, often forming lush carpets along the moist, rich soils near streams or on the shaded forest floor. The Heartleaf Foamflower blooms in the late spring, presenting delicate white flowers that rise above the foliage on thin, wiry stems. These blossoms cluster into spiky foamy plumes, giving the plant its descriptive name.

In Robert H. Treman State Park, known for its deep gorge and cascading waterfalls, the Heartleaf Foamflower adds a layer of understated elegance to the rugged landscape. Here, the plant benefits from the high humidity and the protective canopy of mature trees, conditions that mirror the environments of its ancestral wilds.

Propagation in the Wild

Propagation of the Heartleaf Foamflower is a testament to its resilience and adaptability. The plant spreads primarily through stolons—horizontal runners that extend from the parent plant and root at nodes to form new clones. This vegetative reproduction allows dense colonies of foamflower to develop, creating a continuous undergrowth that stabilizes the soil and adds to the forest’s understorey diversity. After flowering, the foamflower produces dry capsules that release tiny seeds, capable of germinating under the right moisture and shade conditions, further expanding its reach within its habitat.

Uses by Humanity

While not widely known for its medicinal or culinary uses, the Heartleaf Foamflower holds a place in traditional gardening and native plant landscaping. Its ability to form dense ground covers and its charming appearance make it a favorite among gardeners looking to emulate a woodland setting. Beyond aesthetics, the foamflower serves as an ecological staple in native plant gardens, supporting local pollinators and contributing to the biodiversity of garden ecosystems.

Fanciful Exploration

Imagine a time when the floors of what now is Treman Gorge were untouched by trails or footprints. In this ancient tableau, the Heartleaf Foamflower quietly asserted its presence. Those soft white blooms a stark contrast to the deep greens and earthen browns of the forest floor. Native Americans might have admired its beauty or recognized its value in the tapestry of the woodland realm.

Today, visitors to Robert H. Treman State Park can witness this enduring beauty. As they wander along the gorge’s paths, they tread near these floral gems, stepping through the pages of a natural history that continues to unfold with each blooming season. The Heartleaf Foamflower, with its humble grace and enduring spirit, remains a symbol of the wild and pristine beauty that Treman Gorge has preserved through the ages.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Mother’s Day Amid the Blossoms of the Horse Chestnut

Explore the enchanting world of the Horse Chestnut, its vibrant spring blossoms, and its rich tapestry of historical and ecological significance, as I wander the slopes above Cayuga Lake on a serene Mother’s Day.

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On a serene Mother’s Day in 2024, I found myself walking the slopes above Cayuga Lake, embraced by the spring warmth and the vibrant blossoms of the Horse Chestnut tree (Aesculus hippocastanum). This moment was a seasonal celebration and a deep dive into the botanical and cultural tapestry that this majestic tree weaves.

The Botanical Brilliance of the Horse Chestnut


The Horse Chestnut tree, with its robust stature and radiant floral displays, is a sight to behold, a study in botanical survival and adaptation. Originally native to a small area in the Pindus Mountains mixed forests and the Balkan mixed forests of Southeast Europe, this tree has traversed continents and histories to root itself into diverse landscapes, including the fertile grounds above Cayuga Lake.

Each spring, the Horse Chestnut’s candle-like flower spikes, scientifically known as ‘panicles’, burst forth in a shower of whites and subtle pinks, each petal marked distinctively with a blotch of yellow or red. These blooms are structured to attract a variety of pollinators, playing a crucial role in the local ecological narrative by supporting biodiversity.

Historical Uses and Cultural Significance


The journey of the Horse Chestnut tree from its native lands to the Americas is a tale of practicality and reverence. Native Americans, prior to the arrival of European settlers, were keen observers of their environment but may not have had a direct historical use for the Horse Chestnut, as it was introduced later. However, the European settlers quickly discovered the tree’s multiple uses. The wood, known for its softness and workability, was used to make furniture and boxes, while the bark found its place in the tanning industry due to its rich tannin content.

Most notably, the seeds of the Horse Chestnut were ground and used as a form of laundry detergent and to treat various ailments, a testament to the tree’s utility in pioneering life. This aspect of the Horse Chestnut highlights a broader theme of how both Native Americans and European settlers utilized natural resources for survival and economic purposes, blending the lines between utility and conservation.

A Reflection on the Natural History and Ecology


As I strolled beneath the boughs heavy with spring’s bounty, the historical echoes of the Horse Chestnut’s uses merged with the present chorus of birds nesting in its branches. The tree’s role extends beyond human uses; it is a vital component of the local ecosystems. The dense canopy provides shelter and the flowers feed pollinators, which in turn support the broader food web.

Environmental factors, particularly those influenced by climate change, pose challenges to the Horse Chestnut. Issues such as leaf blotch and the conker tree moth threaten its health and longevity. Observing the Horse Chestnut’s current vibrancy, I am reminded of the resilience and adaptability that this species has demonstrated over centuries.

Conclusion: A Legacy Continues

As the day drew to a close and the sun cast long shadows over Cayuga Lake, the Horse Chestnut stood as a botanical specimen, a living monument to natural history and human ingenuity. The tree’s story is a powerful reminder of our intertwined destinies with the plant kingdom—how plants shape our cultures, sustain our environments, and continue to amaze with their ecological and aesthetic contributions.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Whispers from the Rocks: The Vivid World of the Red Columbine

Discover the vibrant Red Columbine of Treman Gorge, a masterpiece of adaptation and survival nestled among ancient rocks. Explore how this delicate beauty thrives in the harsh cliffs of the Finger Lakes.

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Wandering through the verdant paths of Treman Gorge, amidst the rough-hewn charm of the Finger Lakes Region, I find myself entranced by a striking botanical jewel, the Red Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis). Amid the prehistoric tapestry of shale and limestone, these delicate red and yellow flowers stand out with a vivacity that seems almost audacious against the stoic gray of their rocky backdrop.

The Red Columbine, with its unique, nodding bell-like flowers, is more than just a feast for the eyes. Each bloom is a masterclass in the art of survival and adaptation. The elongated, tubular structure of its flowers, splashed with a bold red that fades into a sun-kissed yellow, is nature’s perfect lure for its pollinators. The petals curve back, as if arching away in a graceful flare, exposing the stamens and pistils in an inviting display for hummingbirds, which, in their quest for nectar, become unwitting partners in the dance of pollination.

As I tread softly along the mossy stones, the sheer cliff faces of the gorge serve as a stark reminder of the relentless passage of time. Yet here, in this ancient cradle, the Red Columbine thrives in pockets of soil that seem to defy gravity. It’s a botanical ballet, with each plant performing its survival routine rooted in crevices that gather just enough humus to sustain life.

The air is cool and moist, the faint murmur of Enfield Creek a constant whisper beneath the chorus of bird calls. This is a place of subtle enchantment where every glance reveals the rugged beauty of nature intertwined with the delicate persistence of life. The columbines, with their whimsical spirals of spurs and lush, lobed leaves, appear almost otherworldly. They thrive here in the dappled sunlight, a testament to their resilience and a reminder of nature’s quiet defiance against the odds.

Red Columbine with steel rebar driven into the rock to anchor lifesaving lines. Found near Lucifer Falls, Robert H Treman New York State Park, Ithaca, Tompkins County

In this serene alcove, time slows. The Red Columbine’s pendulous blooms sway gently with the breeze, each movement a soft ballet in the verdant amphitheater of Treman Gorge. This flower, with its fiery hues and intricate form, embodies the spirit of the wild that surrounds us. It stands as a vibrant contrast against the somber stones, a living splash of color against the monochrome palette of the gorge.

As I pause to capture this moment, camera in hand, I am reminded of the fragile beauty that thrives in these hidden corners of the earth. The Red Columbine, with its enchanting flowers and rugged perseverance, is a symbol of the wild heart that beats strong within the quiet solitude of Treman Gorge. Here, in the heart of the Finger Lakes, beauty and resilience bloom in the most unexpected places, painting the landscape with strokes of floral brilliance.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Viola pubescens: A Delight of the Deciduous Forest

The yellow forest violet, Viola pubescens, with bright yellow flowers, serves as nectar source and butterfly host, indicating forest health and offering medicinal uses.

MichaelStephenWills4 Comments

The yellow forest violet is easily recognizable by its bright yellow flowers, which add a splash of color to the forest floor in early to mid-spring. The petals are slightly fringed and the lower petal exhibits delicate veins that serve as nectar guides for pollinators. The leaves of Viola pubescens are heart-shaped with a slight pubescence, or fuzziness, that gives the plant its characteristic downy appearance.

As a member of the Violet family, Viola pubescens is important ecologically. It serves as an early source of nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Additionally, the plant is a host for the larvae of some Fritillary butterflies, playing a crucial role in their lifecycle.

This plant not only contributes to the biodiversity of its habitat but also enchants those who wander through its woodland home. The presence of Viola pubescens indicates a healthy, undisturbed forest ecosystem, making it an excellent indicator of ecological stability.

Viola pubescens is also noted for its medicinal uses among Native American tribes, who used various parts of the plant to treat ailments ranging from colds to heart trouble. The roots and leaves were often used in traditional remedies, showcasing the plant’s utility beyond its aesthetic appeal.

In summary, Viola pubescens, or the yellow forest violet, is a noteworthy component of the North American woodland biome. Its ecological role and historical significance make it a valued species for both naturalists and conservationists alike.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Cardamine diphylla: A Woodland Marvel

Step into the spring woods and discover the broadleaf toothwort, Cardamine diphylla. Marvel at its white blossoms and deep-lobed leaves, and uncover its vital role in both early pollination and traditional medicinal practices.

MichaelStephenWills3 Comments

Broadleaf toothwort, Cardamine diphylla, plays a charming role in the ecosystem of deciduous forests, often carpeting the forest floor with its distinctive greenery and white blossoms during the spring. This plant is particularly noted for its broad, compound leaves that usually consist of two or three leaflets, each characterized by deep lobes and a somewhat wrinkled appearance, lending it the name “crinkle root.”

The flowers of the broadleaf toothwort are a notable feature, emerging in clusters atop slender, upright stems. Each bloom presents four white petals that form a delicate cross, a typical trait of the Brassicaceae family, to which it belongs. The flowering period spans early to mid-spring, making it one of the earlier blooms in woodland areas, which plays a critical role in the local ecology. These flowers are not just a visual treat but are also vital for early-season pollinators such as bees and butterflies, providing them with necessary nectar.

Moreover, Cardamine diphylla is more than just a visual and ecological gem. It has historical uses in traditional medicine and cuisine. Native American tribes utilized the peppery roots of the toothwort as a seasoning and as a medicinal herb to treat various ailments.

The presence of Cardamine diphylla is also an indicator of the health of the forest ecosystem. Thriving populations of this plant suggest a well-preserved habitat, which is crucial for biodiversity conservation.

In summary, Cardamine diphylla, with its ecological significance and historical uses, represents a small but vital part of North America’s natural heritage, highlighting the intricate connections within woodland ecosystems and the importance of preserving these natural environments.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Reeds of Resilience: A Tale of Growth and Survival

Discover the hidden world of Phragmites australis, the common reed: a story of resilience, beauty, and ecological significance, told through the eyes of the wetlands.

MichaelStephenWills4 Comments

On the southern shore of Cayuga Lake, where waters mirror the ever-changing sky, I found this common reed, Phragmites australis, a plant of unassuming grace yet profound influence. This tale unfolds at the broad boarders of earth and water, a refuge and kingdom to countless beings.

Phragmites australis, a reed both simple and complex, begins its journey as a whisper in the mud. From the soft, fertile earth, it bursts forth into the world, a slender shoot reaching for the heavens. Its growth is steady and assured, fueled by the sun’s embrace and the water’s caress. In time, it stands tall, a sentinel in a sea of green, its feathery plumes, called panicles, wafted by the breeze.

This reed, you see, is a cornerstone of its ecosystem, a master architect, shaping its environment, crafting homes and havens for creatures great and small, in keeping with the genus name “Phragmites.” The Greek word “phragma” translates to “fence” or “hedge”, derived from the verb “phrassein”, meaning “to enclose.” Within that realm tiny creatures find refuge. From dragonflies and damselflies to grasshoppers and beetles are found by careful, patient observers. Insects play essential roles in pollination and nutrient cycling. Birds use the dense vegetation for shelter and foraging, you might find red-winged blackbirds, marsh wrens, and rails among the stems. Frogs, toads, and salamanders find refuge in reedy marshes. They lay their eggs in the waterlogged areas, and their tadpoles thrive amidst the reed stems. Phragmites australis is a giver of life, a source of sustenance and protection for many.

Yet, the tale of Phragmites is also one of struggle and resilience. In lands far from its native soil, it is often seen as an invader, a usurper of territories, spreading with a zeal that can overwhelm native flora and alter habitats. Its spread, unchecked, can lead to monocultures, diminishing biodiversity. But in its essence, Phragmites does not seek conquest but survival, thriving in spaces both gentle and harsh, adapting with an elegance that commands admiration.

As seasons turn, the reed undergoes a transformation, its green turning to gold, then to the brown of the earth from which it sprang. But even in decay, it nurtures life, its fallen stalks a shelter for the small and the silent, its seeds a promise of renewal. And when spring whispers anew, Phragmites rises once more, a cycle unbroken, a circle complete.

In the tale of Phragmites australis, we find a narrative of life itself—growth and decay, beauty and conflict, resilience and adaptation. This common reed, standing tall among the waters of the world, is a testament to the enduring power of nature, a reminder of the intricate tapestries of life that flourish in the quiet corners of our planet.

Click Me for another posting on the Common Reed.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

A Path Lined with Promise: Spring’s Embrace in Ithaca

Happy April 1, 2024

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You find yourself on the cusp of spring, the earth slowly awakens from its wintery slumber, and life begins to stir in the subtlest of forms. Imagine strolling through a park in Ithaca, the evidence of spring’s tender handiwork unfolding before your eyes. As you traverse this liminal space where the grey of winter meets the vibrant hues of spring, you are greeted by a cheerful brigade of daffodils, a sure harbinger of warmer days.

These daffodils are blooming along the Cayuga Waterfront Trail within Cass Park, Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York

Through the above image, it’s as though you are leaning in, your gaze just inches above the blooms. These daffodils are not merely flowers; they are the golden trumpets of spring, each one a burst of joy amidst the still-dormant earth. You can almost feel the softness of the petals, the coolness of the air, and the promise of renewal that each bud encapsulates. With their faces eager to bask in the strengthening sun, they seem to resonate with your own readiness for change, for the fresh possibilities that each new season brings.

As you stand up and take a few steps back, the following image grants you a wider perspective. Here lies a path, winding gently alongside a burgeoning line of daffodils. They stand in unity, a vivid yellow line drawn against the canvas of awakening green. The bench in the distance is vacant, an invitation to sit and appreciate the tranquility of Cass Park, the expanse of water beyond serving as a mirror to the open sky. It’s a scene that calls for contemplation, urging you to appreciate the simplicity of the moment, the serenity of nature’s process.

These daffodils are blooming along the Cayuga Waterfront Trail within Cass Park. Here the trail has passed over Linderman Creek and we are looking toward the Cayuga Lake inlet. Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York

These photographs are more than visual delights; they’re sensory experiences. Can you hear the subtle sounds of the park? The distant call of birds returning home, the soft rustle of grass stirred by a gentle breeze, the hushed murmur of water lapping at the shore? Each sound is a note in the symphony of spring, played just for you.

The images you see are not frozen in time; they carry within them a narrative of life’s perseverance. The daffodils, with their bright faces and sturdy stems, have weathered the cold, the snow, and the frost. They emerge, not just as survivors of winter, but as its conquerors. Each flower is a testament to resilience, a living metaphor for the human spirit that you, too, possess.

This is the season of rejuvenation, where the old is shed, and the new embraced. With each day, the sun lingers a bit longer, casting its golden glow upon the earth. It’s the time to set aside the grayness of yesterday and look forward to the spectrum of tomorrow. The photographs are not just to be viewed; they are to be felt, to remind you that no winter lasts forever, no spring skips its turn.

As you walk away from this scene, you carry with you the warmth of the sun and the cheer of the daffodils. Let the images serve as a reminder of the perennial cycle of life, the undying hope, and the enduring beauty that awaits just outside your door. Feel encouraged to seek these moments, these fragments of beauty, in your everyday wanderings, and hold onto the message of the daffodils: after every winter, no matter how harsh, comes the gentle kiss of spring.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Wildflowers Late Winter / Early Spring 2

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With the thermometer in the 60’s on March 10, 2020 the “buttercups” of yesterday are open. When we first moved here, the plants were much thinner. I used fertilizer spikes on the Magnolia tree around which they grow. Each early the flowers pollinate, forming seeds and spreading.

A tripod held the composition steady, and the timer was set to 2 seconds for extra stability at the f25 setting.

Here is a slideshow of yesterday and today’s shots.

Copyright 2021 All Rights Reserved Michael Stephen Wills

Wildflowers Late Winter / Early Spring 1

In February 2020, I captured images of the first flowers to bloom on their property with a Canon 5D Mark IV DSLR and a macro lens. The flowers belong to the Eranthis genus, known for early flowering.

MichaelStephenWills16 Comments

These flowers are the first to bloom on our property, around the magnolia tree, and are also the first wildflowers photographed with my then new Canon 5D Mark IV dslr . Each year these “buttercups” grow thicker and spread. The latin scientific name Eranthis hyemalis proclaims the early nature of its flowering both in the genus, “Eranthis” – composed of two Greek language roots meaning “spring flower”, and species, “hyemalis” – a term from the Latin language meaning, “winter flowering.” The genus encompasses eight species, all early flowering plants with the common name winter aconite. These can also rightly be called Buttercups as the plant belongs to family Ranunculaceae, buttercups.

To capture the intricate details possible with the Canon EF 100 mm f/2.8 Macro lens I used here, it’s often necessary to adjust the camera settings to allow for a longer exposure time. This adjustment ensures that enough light reaches the sensor, particularly in macro photography or low-light situations, which helps in producing sharper and more detailed images. All these photographs are from f25. Setting a longer exposure compensates for the reduced light that might be a consequence of using a smaller aperture (higher f-number) for greater depth of field, a common technique in macro photography.”

It’s important to note that while setting a longer exposure can improve image quality by allowing more light to hit the camera’s sensor, it can also introduce the risk of motion blur if the camera or subject moves during the exposure. To minimize camera shake and achieve the best results, I used a Manfrotto “BeFree” tripod and the camera’s built-in timer set to a 2 second delay after a manual shutter release.

With the thermometer hovering above freezing, these blooms did not open today. The calendar says “late winter”, these Aconite are singing “early spring.”

Reference: Wikipedia “Eranthis hyemalis” and “Eranthis.”

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved Michael Stephen Wills