Iowa DNR provides a wildflower report

Iowa provides a number of reports to help one enjoy the outdoors. As their web site says “It's wildflower season — get out and explore.” Often referred to as ephemerals, spring flows have a limited life span. Here today and gone tomorrow is quite common. Access https://www.iowadnr.gov/programs-services/forestry-resources/woodland-wildflowers-reports and sign up to receive the report. This report allows one to choose the area they wish to visit and find out what plants to look for.

DNR Report for Henry County

A solid week of seasonal spring weather has convinced wildflowers to bloom in Henry County. Snow trillium is on the decline, but you can still find it in sheltered areas. Sharp-lobed hepatica blooms are increasing. Virginia Bluebell blooms are increasing. Easily find scarlet cup fungus with its bright red color. Dutchman’s breeches are starting to emerge. Purple cress and Spring cress are in full bloom. Grape Hyacinth is in full bloom in the few places where it can be found. Blood root has emerged. Spring beauty are blooming in small numbers; they will not peak for several weeks. Prairie trillium have leafed out and are starting to bud. Virginia waterleaf and Jacob’s Ladder leaves are easy to find.

Find rare putty root orchids on the woodland floor due to their single green leaf the size of a dollar bill. Dandelions are starting to bloom again. A close look at disturbed areas, like gravel and grass parking lots, reveals the very tiny common whitelowgrass in full bloom.