Just as returning birds herald the changing of seasons, the succession of plant blooms is a direct indicator of warming days and more minutes of sunshine.

The first blooms near the Center in the Spring are found on shrubs. Yellow blossoms on currant and sumac appear early, sometimes even before new leaves on the branches. They both have a distinct smell and brighten up the landscape before all of the green takes over in June. 

Cottonwood catkins also get an early start -- these are the things that look like caterpillars when they drop off the trees to scatter on the ground. The strands of male flowers are reddish-purple, and the female flowers are yellow-green. Trees with the latter are those from which green fruit forms and, later, cottonwood "fluff" with little seeds inside.

Right now there are plenty of purples and blues, with Prairie Flax ( Linum lewisii) at home both in our wildflower garden and in the prairie patch of green needlegrass and bluebunch wheatgrass on the South side of the property. Despite its delicate appearance, this native perennial is extremely hardy and can spread quickly in the right conditions.

Other native flowers in May and early June include penstemons, columbines, and Prairie Smoke. For prairie landscapes in the area, this is the best time for wildflowers, including wild onions, larkspur, evening primrose, sage lilies, and of course Montana's state flower, the Bitterroot.

All of these flowers are, of course, important for the insects and birds in the area. Want to learn more, especially about the connections between plants and pollinators? Stop by the Center anytime, or come visit us as we help out with Pollinator Day at the Community Garden at St. Andrews on 24th St West on June 23rd. The event, from 10am to 4pm, is free and open to the public -- families welcome!