BLUE RIDGE WILDFLOWERS

If you have enjoyed my photos.....

2012-01-20T06:48:00.000-08:00

The Roanoker Magazine is holding their "Best of Roanoke" competition now through February 6, 2012.
If you have enjoyed my photography through the years here at BlueRidgeWildflowers.com, I would appreciate your vote in the "Takes the best pictures" category. You must vote in 20 categories for the vote to be valid. Thank you for your support.

You can get to the voting page with this link:

http://theroanoker.com/best/vote-for-the-best-of-roanoke

Happy Holidays from Blue Ridge Wildflowers

2011-12-24T21:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays to one and all from BlueRidgeWildflowers.com

Wildflowers from All Over the area.

2011-04-26T08:57:00.000-07:00

This was a day that I traveled around a bit, photographing as I went. These wildflower images are from Franklin County, Floyd County, and Roanoke County. Spring has sprung with a few days of very warm temperatures and quite a bit of rain. It shows with the density of wildflowers, even though it seems that people seem intent on destroying more and more of their natural habitat. Come on, people. How many subdivisions do you really need?

Fire Pink (Silene virginica)

Indian Strawberry (Duchesnea indica)

Bluets (Houstonia caerulea)

Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)

Yellow Rose of Texas (Hybrid of Rosa foetida).

Money Plant (Lunaria annua)

Unknown. Assistance would be appreciated.

Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum)

Showing Signs of Life for 2011

2011-04-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

My personal wildflower garden has been a bit dormant since the Bloodroot bloomed earlier in the season. However, the wildflowers are starting to shake off their slumber and bursting into bloom. Appearing for the first time this year is a Jack-in-the-Pulpit that I planted several years ago. I was not sure it would take, since the soil in my garden is a bit drier than they usually like, but it came up this year.

White Dwarf Crested Iris (Iris cristata).

Dutchman's Trousers.(Dicentra spectabilis)

Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum) before it blooms.

Eastern Bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana)

More of the Mutants from Grandiflorum

2011-04-26T08:20:00.000-07:00

The mutants of Grandiflorum had more numbers than I originally thought. On second inspection of the area, I found several more blooms that I had not photographed the day before. Here are those images, along with a few more blooms that I photographed again. These are amazing flowers.

Surprise Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

Trillium and Surprise Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

Arrival of the Mutants from Grandiflorum

2011-04-18T21:22:00.000-07:00

Some of my favorite wildflowers are in bloom right now. They are Trillium grandiflorum, but not normal Trillium. They are a mutated colony of Trillium that grow with green blossoms and many more than the regular three petals of the Trillium. A fellow wildflower enthusiast recommended calling them "Surprise Trillium". I agree with her, so that is what I am calling them. I find them stunning in their odd beauty, and I cannot resist the urge to image each and every one I see., Along with other wildflowers in the area, here are the Trillium from another world.

Surprise Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

Surprise Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

Surprise Trillium and a Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

Surprise Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

A couple of Surprise Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

Canadian Violet (Viola canadensis)

Star Chickweed (Stellaria corei)

Spring Beauty (Claytonia virginica).

Woodland Phlox (Phlox divaricata)

Common Buttercup (Ranunculus acris)

Common Cinquefoil (Potentilla simplex).

April Flowers in Green Hill Park

2011-04-10T22:35:00.000-07:00

These images were taken April 10, 2011 in Green Hill Park in west Roanoke County. The Trillium are not in full bloom yet, and I expect it will be 4 to 7 days for the majority to break open. The Twin Leaf are fading now, but the violets, Spring Beauty, and Virginia Bluebell are out in force. I hope you like these images.

Twin Leaf (Jeffersonia diphylla)

Spring Beauty (Claytonia virginica).

Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

Canadian Violet (Viola canadensis)

Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica).

Spending a little time at the Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden

2011-04-04T21:58:00.000-07:00

Being at a higher elevation, the Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden gives an opportunity to photograph some wildflowers that have already bloomed at lower elevations. That did not seem to happen this year, as the bloom cycles seem to be pretty close between the mountain top and the valley below.

Here are some images from April 4, 2011 on Mill Mountain.

The wildflowers above are known as the Common Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis).

Cyprus Spurge (Euphobia cyparissias).

A nice image of the Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris).

Primrose (Pimula vulgaris).

A close in image of a Periwinkle (Vinca minor)

Forget-Me-Nots (Myosotis scorpiodes).

Early April in Green Hill Park

2011-04-04T21:48:00.000-07:00

I decided to take a trip out to Green Hill Park to check on the Trillium. They had not started blooming, but several other species of wildflowers were in bloom. These images are from Green Hill Park and around the Salem area.

Spring Beauty (Claytonia virginica).

This is Rue Anemone (Thalictrum thalictroides). It blooms close to the ground and has small blooms about one inch wide.

This is Cutleaf Toothwart (Dentaria luciniata)

A Canadian Violet (Viola canadensis)

This wildflower is known as Wild Mustard or Field Mustard (Brassica campestris).

Late March Wildflowers

2011-04-04T15:32:00.000-07:00

It is late March and I have purchased some new equipment to bring another look to my wildflower images. Some Auto Extension Tubes and several new flash units and LED light banks should give some new illumination and detail to my images. Here is what I shot in the last week in March.

This is Blue Hyacinth (Hyacinthus orientalis)

These "Giraffe-looking" wildflowers are Red Dead Nettle (Lamium purpureum)

This is Grape Hyacinth (Muscari armeniacum).

This is a close-up look at Bleeding Hearts (Lamprocapnos spectabilis). Personally, I really like this image.

Spring 2011 in my yard

2011-03-26T09:14:00.000-07:00

Here are the wildflowers that are making their first appearance for 2011 in my humble yard. I was surprised to see the Bleeding Hearts blooming this early in the season. I guess the couple of days with temperatures in the mid-70's might have jump started their blooming cycle. Either way, I am glad to see them. My Kaufmann's Tulips have not bloomed yet. I am concerned.

These are Bleeding Hearts (Lamprocapnos spectabilis). Always beautiful to look at.

This is Grape Hyacinth (Muscari armeniacum).

This is Pink Hyacinth (Hyacinthus orientalis)

First Images of Spring 2011

2011-03-26T08:35:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung and these are the first images for this blog in the spring season. These images were taken in my neighborhood. Of course, since they have decided to live near me, I give them the honors of being the first images of spring for me. Some of the images were taken at the offices of the Roanoke Valley Garden Club.

This is Yellow Hyacinth (Hyacinthus orientalis)

This is Jane Magnolia (Magnolia x 'Jane'). It is not a wildflower, but a hybrid. Sorry, but the color was too stunning to pass up. Located at the Garden Club Offices.

Periwinkle (Vinca minor). I could not pass up the composition with the cut branch.

Periwinkle (Vinca minor). This is the normal five petal flower next to a less common four petal bloom.

Last of Winter 2011

2011-03-26T08:19:00.000-07:00

These are the last images of wildflowers in the winter. These image were taken in Green Hill Park in west Roanoke County. This area has quite a few Bloodroot wildflowers growing, and since Bloodroot is one of my favorites, I did spend a bit of time here shooting. I also was talking to a nice young family that has just moved into the area from Montana. I hope they enjoy the wildflowers as much as I do.

This is Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis). It is one of my favorites. These images were taken in Green Hill Park.

2011 - Start of a new Wildflower Season

2011-03-26T08:09:00.000-07:00

Yessirree, the wildflowers started blooming kinda early this year. A warm late winter got them going in the first week in March, but it is looking like we will have a short cold snap this weekend. I hope the early bloomers are able to survive the surprise. Crocus, Vinca minor, Corn Speedwell, and others are braving the chilly nights to get an early start on the spring exposition. Here are some images from the first week in March from the wildflower garden in Franklin County and on Mill Mountain.

These are Common Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis) and are located in a private Franklin County Wildflower Garden. They are early in their bloom cycle and have not yet spread their petals.

These Crocuses, (Crocus vernus), are located in a private Franklin County Wildflower Garden.

This is Winter Jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum). These flowers are growing on Mill Mountain, near the Discovery Center.

Blue Ridge Orchid Society Show - March 11-13, 2011

2011-03-10T19:33:00.000-08:00

Yessirree. It is starting into wildflower season. I have already shot some images for 2011 at a wildflower garden in Franklin County. The early Crocus and Snowdrops are starting to bloom. The Forsythia in my front yard is taking an early stretch, but the grass is still brown, which keeps me from mowing it for a while longer.

I wanted to let viewers of this blog know about the Orchid Show for the Blue Ridge Orchid Society. It is going to be held on Friday, March 11th, Saturday, March 12th, and Sunday, March 13th, 2011 at Greenbrier Nurseries on Starkey Road in SW Roanoke County. I know that Orchids are not wildflowers, but this show should not be missed. The variety and beauty of these flowers is incredible, and to have so many in one place is not to be missed. So check it out. I might see you there. Thanks to Dr. Nancy Cowden of Lynchburg College for tipping me off to this show. I appreciate the "heads up", Nancy.

Images from July 2009

2011-02-15T21:42:00.000-08:00

After finishing up my primary images from 2010, I remembered a day the previous year when I photographed some Turk's Cap Lily, but I had not posted those images. I went back into the archives and found the day. Here are some of those images.

This wildflower is known as Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata). The butterfly is a Tiger Swallowtail.

This wildflower is a Turk's-cap Lily (Lilium superbum).

This is a close up view of the flowers of the wildflower, Common Mullein (Verbascum thapsus).

This is a larger view of the wildflower, Common Mullein (Verbascum thapsus).

This wildflower is a Turk's-cap Lily (Lilium superbum).

This is the wildflower, Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa).

This is unknown. Any assistance would be appreciated.

Late Summer and Fall Wildflowers

2011-02-14T21:25:00.000-08:00

These are the final images of 2010. As many who know me well can tell you, I spent quite a bit of the Fall riding my new Trek Bicycle along the Roanoke River Greenway. Needless to say, quite a few of these images were taken along the Greenway. Beside the fact that the fall crisp, cool air is great for bike riding, the dark blue skies are terrific for some wider angle wildflower shots. I hope you like the last of the images for 2010.

This wildflower is unknown. Assistance in identity would be appreciated.

This wildflower is Wild Morning Glory or Common Morning Glory (Ipomoea purpurea).

This wildflower is Ivy-leaved Morning Glory (Ipomoea hederacea).

This wildflower is Wild Morning Glory or Common Morning Glory (Ipomoea purpurea).

This wildflower is Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosis).

These wildflowers are Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis).

This group of wildflowers is Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis).

These wildflowers are Wild Morning Glory or Common Morning Glory (Ipomoea purpurea). This large group was growing along the Roanoke River Greenway in Southeast Roanoke.

The Asters of the Late Summer

2011-02-13T21:29:00.000-08:00

These images are from early September 2010 and are of the New England Aster and another wildflower that I am not sure of. It kind of looks like a Wild Geranium, but is missing the traditional radiating rays along the longitude of the petals.

This wildflower is New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae).

This wildflower is unknown. Assistance in identity would be appreciated.

Late August 2010 - Summer Wildflowers

2011-02-12T22:00:00.000-08:00

After a long break during the summer, I jumped back into imaging wildflowers along the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden. Here are some of the more interesting images.

This wildflower is Obedient Plant (Physostegia virginiana).

I believe this is a type of sunflower. Any help with identification would be appreciated.

This wildflower is Dolls Eyes, also known as White Baneberry or White Cohosh. (Actaea pachypoda).

This is a Great Spangled Fritillary Butterfly on Bull Thistle (Cirsium vulgare). It is watching you.

This is a Great Spangled Fritillary Butterfly on Bull Thistle (Cirsium vulgare)

This wildflower is Spotted Knapweed (Centauria stoebe). It is toxic to other plants.

Late June 2010 - A Couple More Images

2011-02-12T21:18:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple more images from late June. The really amazing image is of the white flowers. These flowers are incredibly small, and the entire bunch of flowers in the image is less than 3/8ths of an inch wide. Not each flower..... the entire bunch is that small. Incredible. These images were photographed in Montgomery County.

This wildflower is Hedge Parsley, also known as Field Parsley (Torilis arvensis). The width of this bunch of flowers is less than 3/8ths of an inch.

This wildflower is Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosis).

Another look at the Gray's Lily

2011-01-24T21:54:00.000-08:00

These images are from the last day in June 2010. I decided to take a day and travel the backroads of Montgomery and Floyd counties before heading out to see if my favorite wildflower, the Gray's Lily, was in bloom. I found a very nice area of a wide assortment of wildflowers along one back road, and spent a bit of time in that area. Then it was time to check on the lily. It was in bloom and this year I was able to photograph it in its prime glory. Unfortunately, some bugs had already gotten to the blooms and had eaten away at them. However, this extremely rare and beautiful wildflower is still worth every bit of effort.

This wildflower is Bouncing Bet, also known as Soapwart (Saponaria officinalis).

This wildflower is Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosis).

This wildflower is known as Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus).

This wildflower is Trumpet Creeper (Campsis radicans).

This beautiful wildflower is Gray's Lily (Lilium grayi). The easiest way to determine the Gray's Lily from the Canada Lily is that the Gray's Lily has speckles all the way to the tips of the petals. The Canada Lily has speckles, but they stop before the tips of the petals. Canada Lilies also are more orange/yellow that the red Gray's Lily.

These wildflowers are Gray's Lily (Lilium grayi).

Along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Bedford County

2011-01-23T22:23:00.000-08:00

These images are from June 9, 2010. Taken along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Bedford County, the elevation for most of these images is about 2500 feet above sea level, which puts them one to two weeks behind the wildflower bloom cycle in the valleys below.

This wildflower is Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosis).

This group of wildflowers is Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis).

This wildflower is Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca). The butterfly is a Great Spangled Fritillary Butterfly.

This wildflower is Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis).

This wildflower is Yucca (Yucca filamentosa).

June Butterflies

2011-01-21T21:55:00.000-08:00

These images are from the first week in June 2010, and most of the images were taken at the Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden. The Butterfly Weed was in bloom, and there were more than a few Butterflies willing to take advantage if the tasty treat.

This is the Golden Star (Chysogonum virginianum). This wildflower plant is known as a semi-evergreen ground cover.

This is a Butter-and-Eggs plant (Linaria vulgaris). It is also known as Common Toadflax and Yellow Toadflax.

This is Blue-eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium montanum). It is a stunning bloom.

This wildflower is Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis).

This is a Great Spangled Fritillary Butterfly on Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa).

This is Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa).

This is a Yellow Swallowtail Butterfly on Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa).

Anyone for Yellow Goatsbeard

2011-01-16T21:37:00.000-08:00

In the last week of May and the first week of June, I watched a small stand of Yellow Goatsbeard go through its amazing morning dance. In the morning, the pods open to expose the yellow bloom, the bloom then closes by late morning. The pod then opens again in a few days as a seed pod in the form of a large ball of seeds, similar to Dandelions, but much larger. These images show the various stages of this interesting, tall wildflower.

This is the Yellow Goatsbeard (Tragopogon dubius). This image shows an open bloom and several closed seed pods.

This is the Yellow Goatsbeard (Tragopogon dubius). This image shows an open bloom.

This is the Yellow Goatsbeard (Tragopogon dubius). This image shows an open seed pods.

This is the Yellow Goatsbeard (Tragopogon dubius). This image shows a close-up of an open seed pods.

Late May around the Roanoke area

2011-01-15T21:23:00.000-08:00

These images are from late May, and are around the Roanoke area, Franklin County, and Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden. Just a few images in this post.

This flower is known as Heal-All or Self-Heal (Prunella vulgaris).

If you can help identify this wildflower, it would be appreciated.

This is Yellow Foxglove (Digitalis grandiflora).

This flower is known as Moneywort (Lysimachia nummularia).

This Wildflower is called Purple Vetch (Vicia dasycarpa).

Early May on the Blue Ridge Parkway

2011-01-15T18:11:00.000-08:00

These images are from the second week in May 2010. Some of these images are from the wildflower garden at the Roanoke Valley Garden Club offices on Colonial Avenue, one is from my yard, and the rest are along the Blue Ridge Parkway on the high plateau in Floyd County. I was distressed while shooting the images on the Parkway because the large amount of Flame Azalea and Pinxter Flower bushes along the Parkway were destroyed by the severe winter snow and ice that we had during the winter of 2009/2010. In one area that I would visit often, almost 95% of the bushes were gone. Where once stood about twenty Pinxter Flower bushes, only one remained. It was devastating. I know it is the way of nature, but the damage was disheartening none the less.

This is Blue Salvia (Salvia divinorum).

This is Red Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis).

This is Wild Blue Flax (Linum lewisii). Stunning colored blooms.

This is the Bachelor Button (Centaurea cyanus), also known as a Cornflower.

This is Virginia Spiderwort (Tradescantia virginiana). This image was shot while it was raining.

This wildflower is Star Chickweed (Stellaria corei)

This wildflower is a Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum). This single bloom was one of hundreds in the area.

The Flame Azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum). Most of the Flame Azalea where this photo was taken were killed off by a brutal winter storm.

The Flame Azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum), the Floyd County version.

These are Pinxter Flowers (Rhododendron periclymenoides). Their numbers were decimated in this area by a brutal winter.

This wildflower is Bowman's Root (Porteranthus trifoliatis)

This wildflower is Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia).

Above is a Pinxter Flower (Rhododendron periclymenoides). Very odd, yet stunning in their frailty.

Introducing the Showy Evening Primrose

2011-01-14T20:25:00.000-08:00

These images are from May 6, 2010, and I found a patch of wildflowers called Showy Evening Primrose, also known as Mexican Primrose, Pink Evening Primrose, and Pinkladies. This group of wildflowers were the only images I shot that day. These are very photogenic wildflowers, so I decided to show three images from the shooting that day. I hope you like them.

The Showy Evening Primrose (Oenothera speciosa). Nice close up, Mr. DeMille.

The Showy Evening Primrose (Oenothera speciosa). This was a very colorful grouping.

The Showy Evening Primrose (Oenothera speciosa). Another nice close up.

Images from Week 1 of May 2010

2011-01-13T19:12:00.000-08:00

These images are from the first week in May 2010. The weather is starting to get warmer during the day, but more important, it is staying warmer at night. I particularly like the month of May for wildflowers. Just like when the leaves change in the fall, you can move higher in elevation to move back a few weeks to catch wildflowers coming to bloom after they have faded in the valley.

The Flame Azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum), the Franklin County version.

The Flame Azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum), again located at a wildflower wonderland in Franklin County.

The Common Cinquefoil (Potentilla simplex). This one is again located at that wildflower wonderland in Franklin County.

The Fire Pink (Silene virginica). I really like this wildflower. This one is in the Franklin County Wildflower Garden.

Red Azalea (Rhododendron x Gable "Stewartsonian"). The butterflies love this stuff.

Periwinkle (Vinca minor). This is the variegated variety.

This is Deptford Pink. (Dianthus armeria). I was constantly looking for this wildflower until it started growing in my yard.

Yellow Wood Sorrel (Oxalis stricta), again located in my yard.

More Deptford Pink. (Dianthus armeria). This is a very small wildflower, on a very tall stem.

Yellow Azelia. (Rhododendrum luteum).

Images fron late April 2010

2011-01-11T21:25:00.000-08:00

I know it is late, but I kind of like working with wildflower photos when there are none to be seen right now. Also, to answer some of the questions that I have been asked lately, I like to photograph wildflowers as they are. Unlike other wildflower photographers, I do not search for perfect looking flowers. I do not pass up a chance to photograph a wildflower because a bug ate some of its petals, or the symmetry is not perfect. I like wildflowers the way they are, with whatever imperfections they may have. To me, that is character. If you are looking for perfect wildflower shots, you probably will be disappointed here. I shoot 'em like I see 'em. I hope that helps to explain a bit of my imagery.

This is Wood Poppy (Stylophorum diphyllum). Also known as Golden Poppy.

This is Pink Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis). Tall and delicate.

This is the Common Bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta). I do not see these as much as I do the Virginia Bluebells.

This is Spiderwort (Tradescantis ohiensis). It is also known as Cow Slobber (no joke).

This is Yellow Lady's-slipper (Cypripedium parviflorum).

This wildflower is a Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum).

This wildflower is Eastern Bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana). It is also known as Blue Dogbane.

These wildflowers are White Dwarf Creasted Iris (Iris cristata).

These wildflowers are Crimson Clover (Trifolium incarnatum).

Another image of the Pink Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis). This is one of my favorite images.

Enter the Rare Mutant Trillium

2011-01-10T20:20:00.000-08:00

On one of my expeditions to photograph wildflowers, I encountered several large colonies of Trillium. While photographing the Trillium, I noticed some odd looking flowers. These flowers were clearly Trillium, but the blooms were multiple layers of three petals, and the blooms were green.
I carefully photographed them, and I think they are very beautiful. I queried some local wildflower folks and was told that they were nothing special, and was then ignored from further discussion. I found this behavior very odd, so I asked a regional biologist if he could look at my images and identify them. He not only knew what they were, he knew where I had taken the photos, and he verified that these Trillium are, indeed, very uncommon. It seems that, occasionally, a colony of Trillium will mutate and produce odd looking blooms. I consider myself honored to have seen these beautiful specimens. For the safety and protection of these colonies, I will not divulge where these Trillium are located.
I hope you like these images.

This is Dame's Rocket (Hesperis matronalis). This is the white version.

Again, this is Dame's Rocket, but this is the violet version.

This wildflower is Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)

This is Star Chickweed (Stellaria corei)

This is Spring Beauty (Claytonia virginica)

This is a Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum)

The beautiful Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

(Trillium grandiflorum)

Here is one of the mutant Trillium.

Another image of the mutated strain of the Trillium grandiflorum

I think this is my favorite image of the mutated wildflowers. It looks beautiful to me.

Three Cheers for Trillium

2011-01-09T21:24:00.000-08:00

These images were taken between April 15 and April 19, 2010. Many of these images are of Trillium, a beautiful wildflower that has a noticeable affection to the number three. There are usually three petals, and three leaves on this wildflowers. Several other wildflowers spice up the image mix.

A group of Bluets (Houstonia caerulea). Always a pleasure to see, but difficult to photograph due to their petite size and susceptibility to movement in the wind.

This wildflower is called Epimedium, also known as Barrenwort and Horny Goat Weed. It is the more rare red colored Epimedium.

This is also Epimedium, however in the more common green and yellow colors.

A Tiger Swallowtail butterfly pays due diligence to an Azelia in a stiff breeze.

The Tiger Swallowtail butterfly checking out more of the Pink Azelia.

A Buttercup (Ranunculus acris) makes an early Spring appearance.

Now starts the march of the Trilliums (Trillium grandiflorum).

Another Trillium, but is aging.

(Trillium grandiflorum)

This wildflower is a Canada Violet (Viola canadensis)

Wild Blue Phlox (Phlox divaricata)

Wild Phlox. I do not know the exact species.

(Trillium grandiflorum)

Happy New Year 2011

2010-12-31T21:41:00.000-08:00

Hello folks,

Just jumping in to wish everyone a Happy New Year. I am looking forward to another year of spending time with family, friends, the night skies, and Wildflowers.

All the best to you.

Michael

Been shooting, just not posting...

2010-12-12T13:01:00.000-08:00

I was really bad about it this year. I was definitely shooting more images than I had time to go through to post. Once I got behind, I just felt like I could not come close to catching up, so I just "let it ride". Not a good idea if you have a blog. Well, now that it is cold outside, and wildflowers are mainly a distant memory, I will attempt to bring my images up to date. The images in this posting were taken in the first two weeks in April 2010. Let's see what we have here.

Primrose (Pimula vulgaris).

This wildflower is known as Money Plant (Lunaria annua).

This is Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis). It is an early spring bloomer, and always beautiful.

The beautiful Apple Blossom.

These wildflowers are Snowdrops, and its variety is known as the Common Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis).

More Snowdrops, this time with a visitor. I did not like the movie "Titanic", but I cannot help but think that this bug is doing it's impression of Kate Winslet on the bow of the ship.

This is Cypress Spurge (Euphorbia cyparissias)

This is Wood Poppy (Stylophorum diphyllum).

Spring Beauty (Claytonia virginica).

These are Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica). These are also known as Virginia Cowslip, Lungwort Oysterleaf, and Roanoke Bells.

This is Periwinkle (Vinca minor). This prolific wildflower is always a pleasure to photograph. This one was fun due to the "pinwheel" look of the petals.

On Mill Mountain with the Garden Club

2010-03-31T20:45:00.000-07:00

I was out in the morning getting some shots while the weather was pretty decent for images. Lightly overcast skies gave a nice, even light for imaging, but not taking too much of the suns intense light. At the Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden, I was mainly seeking out Bloodroot, which was in abundance. I also found a couple of wildflowers that I was not expecting to see. One I had never seen before and I consider myself lucky that I even saw it at all. It was then I met the Mill Mountain Garden Club, and very nice group of young women that take care of the Wildflower Garden. I must voice a hearty "Thank You" for their hard work and determination in providing this beautiful destination for us. Again, if you have not been to the Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden, it is located between the Discovery Center and the Mill Mountain Zoo. I then dropped by the Virginia Western Arboretum where more Bloodroot was in bloom along with Lentin Rose. I hope you like the images.

This is Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis). It is an early spring wildflower, and one of my favorites. I have seen more Bloodroot this year than in years past. This image shows it in various stages of bloom.

Another image of Bloodroot, also at the Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden.

This is Rue Anemone (Thalictrum thalictroides). It blooms close to the ground and has small blooms about one inch wide.

This is a Trout Lily (Erythronium americanum). Also called a Dogtooth Violet, this one bloomed very close to the ground and almost did not even see it amongst the bed of leaves. Notice the mottled leaves.

This is the Mill Mountain Garden Club, at least the members that were at the Wildflower Garden when I was doin ' some shootin'. Thanks ladies for the work you do. It is appreciated.

This group of Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) was blooming at the Virginia Western Arboretum on Colonial Avenue. You should stop by and check it out when you get a chance. A very beautiful, peaceful place.

This is Lentin (Helleborus orientalis). This is a red bloom of the species. Located at the Virginia Western Arboretum.

This is also Lentin (Helleborus orientalis). This is a green bloom of the species. Located at the Virginia Western Arboretum.

More Images with Different Lenses

2010-03-30T20:36:00.000-07:00

I am always looking for different ways to image wildflowers. This day I decided to image some of the wildflowers in the yard with a different setup. This setup is, basically, a 960mm f5.6 Macro system. It allows me to get relatively close-up images of wildflowers that are 10 to 15 feet away. It also provides a visual cue of compression, or flattening. This can be an interesting addition to an image if used properly. Controlling depth of field at the increased distance is difficult to do correctly. Two of the three images below used the extreme telephoto macro system. These images were shot on March 21, 2010.

This is a Kaufmann's Tulip (Tulipa kaufmanniana). This image was taken with my 100mm f2.8 Macro lens. The front of the lens is about 24 inches from the tulip.

Here is the Kaufmann's Tulip (Tulipa kaufmanniana) again. This time the image was taken with my 960mm f5.6 Macro setup. The front of the lens is about 12 feet from the tulip.

This is Grape Hyacinth (Muscari armeniacum). This image was also taken with my 960mm f5.6 Macro setup. The front of the lens is about 14 feet from the Grape Hyacinth.

Around My Yard

2010-03-30T18:08:00.000-07:00

As the wildflowers start to break out of the ground, they have been popping up in my yard in areas that I have never noticed wildflowers before this year. Like the Star of Bethlehem that grew in the middle of my lawn, these beauties have made their presence known on their own, with some help from birds I suppose. Included is a wild tulip. I hope you like these images. These were shot on March 19, 2010.

This is a Species Crocus, (Crocus speciosus). It is a wild Crocus, and this one was growing an inch from the base of my Magnolia Tree. This bloom was almost 3 inches wide.

This is an English Primrose, or Common Primrose, (Primula vulgaris). The name Primrose comes from Latin, Prima Rosa, or "First Rose", denoting the wildflowers early spring blooming period.

This is Corn Speedwell, (Veronica arvensis). This wildflower is considered a weed in most lawns, but if you get close up and personal with the tiny, 1/4 inch blooms, they are beautiful.

I was having quite a hard time trying to figure this one out. It was in none of my books and I was at a loss on what it was. I sent this image to a knowledgeable friend, Katherine Hix. She identified it almost immediately, and I then researched it. This is a Kaufmann's Tulip (Tulipa kaufmanniana). It is a true wild tulip, but it is native to rocky slopes of Kazakhstan and Russia. How it got to my yard, I have no idea.

Start of the Wildflower Season 2010

2010-03-17T07:22:00.000-07:00

It is another year, and time to break out the cameras, assorted macro gear, and head out in search of more beautiful wildflowers. I travel more during this season than any other. and these little wonders of nature never cease to amaze me. They seem to grow in some of the oddest, most unforgiving places, yet bring beauty and grace to wherever they bloom. This year, the first image of the year was a wild Crocus, blooming in the middle of my lawn on March 10th. Like the Star of Bethlehem last year, I have no idea how it got there. A bird, most likely. Anyway, here are some early images of the early bloomers. Winter Jasmine, Hellebore, Snowdrops, and Crocus.

This is Crocus, (possibly Crocus vernus), it is an early spring crocus, or snow crocus. This is the one that bloomed in my lawn.

This is Hellebore (Veratrum viride). This is early in its blooming cycle, and is very obvious amongst the still dormant forest floor. This is in the Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden.

This is Winter Jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum). These flowers were growing on Wiley Drive.

Some more Winter Jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum) on Wiley Drive.

These wildflowers are Common Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis) and are located in the Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden. They are early in their bloom cycle and have not spread their petals.

Some more Snowdrops located in the Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden.

These Common Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis) and are located in a private Franklin County Wildflower Garden. They are later in their bloom cycle and have spread their petals.

These Crocuses, (possibly Crocus vernus), are also in the private Franklin County Wildflower Garden. These are some of the most stunning Crocuses I have ever seen.

More Late Spring 2009 Images

2010-01-26T07:56:00.000-08:00

I am slowly posting images from last year. Except for the Nightshade image, these images were taken on June 6, 2009 on the Blue Ridge Parkway north of the Rt.460 entrance to the Parkway. Several of these images were wildflowers growing in the dry, rocky cliffs that are beside the parkway in this area.

This wildflower is Horse Nettle (Solanum carolinense), a member of the Nightshade family.

This wildflower is Eastern Gray Beardtongue (Penstemon canescens)

This wildflower is Flowering Spurge (Eurphorbia corallata). Thanks to Bob Zuberbuhler for the identification.

This wildflower is Rough Fruited Cinquefoil (Potentilla recta)

Another image of Eastern Gray Beardtongue (Penstemon canescens)

This wildflower is Bowman's Root (Porteranthus trifoliatis)

This wildflower is a wild Phlox, but the exact species is not known. Thanks to Bob Zuberbuhler for the identification.

This wildflower is a Common Buttercup (Ranunculus acris)

This wildflower is Yellow Hawkweed, (Hieracium pratense)

Another image of Rough Fruited Cinquefoil (Potentilla recta)

More Images from Late Spring 2009

2010-01-24T21:32:00.000-08:00

These images were taken on June 3, 2009. I cannot remember what had delayed my posting of these images, but I often shoot many more images than I have time to go through. I do remember that I shot these in the early afternoon because a pretty nasty storm came through later in the afternoon. I hope you like these images.

These wildflowers are Sundrops, (Oenothera fruticosa). Very bright yellow.

These are also Sundrops, (Oenothera fruticosa), but I wanted folks to see how difficult it is sometimes to glean which leaves belong to the wildflower you are trying to identify.

These wildflowers are Small Flowered Phacelia (Phacelia dubia). The colors are subtle, yet intense.

This wildflower has been identified as Yellow Sweet Clover (Melolitus officinalis). Thanks To MW Kluge and Bob Zuberbuhler for the identification.

This wildflower is a Golden Star, (Chrysogonum virginianum). The leaf in the upper left of the image is from an unrelated plant next to the Golden Star. I just couldn't resist the composition..

Some images for the winter blahs

2010-01-24T19:55:00.000-08:00

I have some images to post. These were taken on the side of Williamson Road in Roanoke. I certainly could not pass up this many wildflowers. These images were taken on May 30, 2009.

These wildflowers are Lance Leaved Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata).

More Wildfower Images and some insight

2010-01-21T21:10:00.000-08:00

Here we are in the middle of winter. I still have hundreds of images that I have not posted from last year. It is a bit overwhelming, but I am sure I can get through it if I could just focus. (No pun intended)
I have noticed that my shooting styles change a bit from day to day, so that might be mood related, but I don't know. Sometimes I image wildflowers with a bit of the background evident and in focus, or slightly out of focus to highlight the primary in the image, the flower. But sometimes I seem to avoid any background at all and expose strictly at the flower bloom, maximizing detail there, and nowhere else. Here are some examples of this bold imaging, which were shot on the same day back in May 2009.

This wildflower is a Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum). This is a flower that always draws my attention.

I am relatively sure that this wildflower is a member of the Ranunculaceae, or Buttercup family. However, without leaves in the image, it is hard to tell which one it is.

Another image of a member of the Buttercup family, but earlier in its bloom cycle.

End of the year , mad posting binge

2009-12-30T17:24:00.000-08:00

Yep. here it is. December 30, 2009. I am going through my images to find new ones to post on the blog in the dead of winter. My wildflower garden is still under about 8 inches of snow, down from the 22 inches from last week, so I wanted to see some flowers and color. So, here are some images taken May 24th and 25th, 2009. Enjoy.

This wildflower is a White Campion (Silene latifolia), and is a member of the Carnation family. It is also called White Cockle.

This wildflower is suspected to be a Herb Robert Geranium (Geranium robertianum). Thanks to Bob Zuberbuhler for the identification.

This wildflower is known as Small Flowered Phacelia (Phacelia dubia)

This wildflower is a Cut-Leaved Geranium (Geranium dissectum)

This is Yellow Foxglove (Digitalis grandiflora).

This is Blue Spruce (Sedum pinifolium)

An Image from the Wildflower Garden - 9/19/09

2009-10-16T22:18:00.000-07:00

This image is from my wildflower garden. It is a New England Aster that I bought from a wildflower sale by the Blue Ridge Wildflower Society. It has done well in the garden, and produced some beautiful blooms. Here is one.

This wildflower is a New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae).

Images from the Roanoke River Greenway - 9/15/09

2009-10-16T21:17:00.000-07:00

I decided to take a bit of a walk carrying my fast camera bag (relatively lightweight - ~25 lbs.) I figured the Roanoke River Greenway between Rivers Edge Park and Wasena Park would be a nice walk, and I would see what wildflowers were growing along the way. Well, there were not a large number of flowers, but there were enough to attract my attention along the way. I think it would be an inexpensive project for the city to scatter some wildflower seeds along some of the overgrown areas along the greenway to add some color and interest to the Greenway project. Not everyone wants to zombie walk the greenway with their iPods stuffed in their ears, and their minds "who knows where".
I hope you like the images.

This wildflower is a Woodland Sunflower (Helianthus strumosis), and is a member of the Aster family.

This is an Everlasting Pea (Lathyrus latifolius), and is a member of the bean family.

This wildflower appears to be some type of Hawkweed (Hieracium), but I am not sure of the species.

This wildflower is a Bouncing Bet, or Soapwort. (Saponaria officinalis), and is a member of the Carnation family.

A pair of Bouncing Bet (Saponaria officinalis).

This wildflower is Common Wood Sorrel, or Sour Grass. (Oxalis stricta). This Sorrel found a nice, shady, damp spot near one of the low water bridges.

This wildflower is New York Ironweed. (Vernonia noveboracensis), and is a member of the Aster family. What is different about this image is that these flowers were about 20 feet away, and I used a supertelephoto macro system to be able to shoot this close up image from that distance.

More Catching Up on Images

2009-10-15T22:16:00.000-07:00

Here we go. It is a cold, rainy, fall evening, and I have worked up some more images that I had shot a while back. These images were shot on September 5, 2009, and were taken along Colonial Avenue in SW Roanoke County, at the Roanoke Valley Garden Club grounds, and around my house, where wildflowers have seemed to bloom in abundance this year. Some I planted, but most I did not plant, and have just grown wild, knowing that I would photograph them. Smart little buggers, those wildflowers. Most of these images were taken with a bit of a wind blowing. Thank goodness for fast shutter speeds. Also, I manually focus and manually set the exposures on all of my images. There is never any autofocus and auto exposure going on when I shoot wildflowers.

This wildflower is a Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), and is a member of the Aster family.

This wildflower is a Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare), and is also a member of the Aster family.

A few more Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare).

This wildflower is known as Chicory (Cichorium intybus), and is very easy to find in this area towards the fall. It is a member of the Aster family, and I really liked the soft pastel blue color of this bloom.

This wildflower is also Chicory (Cichorium intybus), but this bloom is colored more like the majority of these blooms. These are really beautiful flowers.

This wildflower is Sweet Goldenrod (Solidago odora). If you look closely at the honeybee, it is holding on to the flower for dear life. The wind was blowing hard, and stopping the action was a real test of my ability.

This wildflower is called Hairy Beardtongue (Penstemon hirsutus). Very different looking, and a member of the Figwort family.

This wildflower is known as Woodland Phlox, Wild Blue Phlox, or Wild Sweet William
(Phlox divaricata). A big thanks to Nick Leitch and his wife for helping me identify this wildflower.

The four wildflowers above are color variants of the Lance-leaved Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata). It is also known as Tickseed, but I don't think that name does this beautiful wildflower justice.

This wildflower is called Bushy Aster (Aster dumosus). It is distinguished by long, slender, lance-like leaves.

I do not know what this wildflower is. Any help would be appreciated.

Catching up. Images taken on August 23, 2009

2009-10-10T15:04:00.000-07:00

Well, here I go as I sort through the thousands on wildflower images I have taken recently. I know I should be posting these as I go, but other parts of my busy life always seem to jump in and demand my attention. Okay, my excuse is out there, and I am sticking to it. These images were taken either at the Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden or along the Blue Ridge Parkway. I hope you like them, and feel free to leave a comment about any image you wish.

This wildflower is an Asiatic Dayflower (Commelina communis), and is a member of the Spiderwort family.

Black Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

Wild Phlox (Phlox divaricata)

This Wildflower is called the Obedient Plant, of False Dragonhead (Physostegia virginiana). Thanks to Skye Lark for this identification.

This is a Tiger Swallowtail butterfly on a Bull Thistle (Cirsium vulgare). This Bull Thistle must have been mighty good, because this butterfly did not care where I was, nor what I did.

Another shot of the Tiger Swallowtail butterfly on a Bull Thistle (Cirsium vulgare).

Been shooting, but not posting

2009-10-06T22:04:00.000-07:00

Hey Folks,

My apologies for the lack of recent posts. I have been shooting quite a bit, but I have not had the time to post. Now that the major part of the wildflower blooming season is over, I will try to get to posting some pics. I have about 2000 images to go through and identify. So keep checking back here for some more pics coming soon.

At the Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden again...

2009-07-23T08:32:00.000-07:00

Yep. I just cannot stay away from this place. The Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden is one of the most underrated tourist destinations in the Roanoke area. This place is a wonder just about all year long, and you can come up every couple of weeks and it seems to change with each visit. If you have not walked through this wonderland of wildflowers, you should do so soon. I find my troubles seem to melt away when I walk through and visit. Try it sometime, and see some of the flowers I have photographed below.

This wildflower is Joe-Pye Weed, (Eupatorium purpureum).

This wildflower is known as Blazing Star, or Snakeroot, (Liatris spicata).

This wildflower is a Thread-Leaved Coreopsis, (Coreopsis verticillata).

This flower is Bouncing Bet, or Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) The roots, when soaked in water, provided a soapy alternative used by pioneers to wash silks and woolens.

This wildflower is a Purple Coneflower, (Echinacea purpurea).

This wildflower is a Blackberry Lily, (Belamcanda chinensis).

This flower is known as Heal-All or Self-Heal (Prunella vulgaris).
It is a member of the Mint family.

This wildflower is known as Tall Hawkweed, (Hieracium piloselloides). This plant is much less common than its smaller cousin, Mouse-Eared Hawkweed.

This wildflower is a Golden Star, (Chrysogonum virginianum).

This wildflower is also a Golden Star, but with a slightly different petal variation.
(Chrysogonum virginianum).

Summer Wildflowers on the Blue Ridge Parkway

2009-07-15T05:50:00.000-07:00

I have been spending a bit of free time photographing the summer wildflowers on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The shows are sometimes sparse, but occasionally full and dramatic. Here are some images, and there descriptions, if I have them.

This flower is a Wild Morning Glory, (Ipomoea purpurea). You can see the reddish vine wrapped around the stem of another plant.

This wildflower is a Lance-leaved Coreopsis, (Coreopsis lanceolata).

This wildflower is known as Wild Basil (Clinopodium vulgare).

This wildflower is known as Yarrow, or Milfoil (Achillea millefolium).

This wildflower is Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca). These are stunning blooms when observed close up.

These flowers are a young group of Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus).

This odd shaped wildflower is known as Everlasting Pea (Lathyrus latifolius).

This flower is Alpine Pink (Dianthus alpinus).

This flower is also a member of the Dianthus family, but I do not know what species.

This is Yellow Wood Sorrel (Oxalis stricta). It has clover-like leaves that aid in identification.

This wildflower is Queen Anne's Lace (Daucus carota). It is also known as Wild Carrot.

This wildflower is Tall Meadow Rue (Thalictrum pubescens). This wildflower has no petals. It is made up of stamens. It is popular with bees and butterflies.

This flower is Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus). They are rather easy to find on the Blue Ridge Parkway right now.

A Long Quest for a Lily

2009-07-12T21:32:00.000-07:00

Hello friends. I apologize for the time span between posts, but I have been busy shooting and dealing with other needs. However, on this occasion, I must post a few pics, plus some history.

About 25 years ago, while I was working as a VIP for the Blue Ridge Parkway, I was told of a rare lily that was found in Virginia along the parkway. It is called a Gray's Lily (Lilium grayi). This rare lily is seldom seen outside of an area in the high mountain balds and pastures in North Carolina. It is found on occasion in other areas, but not very far from these high balds. This sighting was quite a bit north on the normal range for this wildflower. I went to where it was sighted, but could not find it. I decided that day, 25 years or so ago, that I would find the Gray's Lily in Virginia. I have been looking since, some times more intensely than others.

The other night, I received a call from a friend. He informed me that he had found what he thought was a Gray's Lily along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. He was not positive that it was a Gray's Lily, and asked if I could check it out and photograph it. I set out the next morning, and found it right where he said it would be. Sure enough, there it stood. Not one, but two (as best I could tell) Gray's Lily plants. The blooms where already starting to wither away, but I had waited 25 years to see this wildflower in Virginia, so I photographed it anyway. Even past its prime, it was a beautiful site. This endangered wildflower was right in front of me and my camera. It was a marked end to a long quest. Hopefully, it will return next year, and maybe spawn a few more plants. This beautiful flower is one that everyone should see.

I will not reveal the location of this wildflower to protect it.

Here it is. The Gray's Lily (Lilium grayi). It is past its bloom prime, but it is still beautiful to me.

The Gray's Lily (Lilium grayi), with a darker background.

I Haven't Been Goofing Off

2009-06-11T14:44:00.000-07:00

My apologies for the break in posting. I have been shooting frequently, and working on many other projects, as well as working at the house and building a new wildflower garden. So, now I am trying to catch up, and post some of the images that I captured in the past month. These images were taken between May 17, 2009 and May 21, 2009. Theye were shot in Roanoke County, Franklin County, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

This wildflower is Mayweed (Athemis cotula). It is relatively easy to find growing in fields and unmaintained tracts of land.

This wildflower is Yellow Wood Sorrel (Oxalis stricta). It is moderately easy to find along roadsides.

This wildflower is Philadelphia Fleabane (Erigeron philadelphicus). It is similar to Daisy Fleabane, but this variety has finer petals that are several layers deep.

This wildflower is the OxEye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare). It looks like Mayweed, but the petals are more overlapped and several layers deep.

This wildflower is Crown Vetch (Coronilla varia L). It is considered and invasive species, but it does a great job of ground cover and erosion control.

This wildflower is Golden Ragwort (Senecio aureus).

This wildflower is Bowman's Root (Gillenia trifoliata). It is also known as Indian Physic and Fawn's Breath. It is commonly found on moist hillsides and on the edges of forested land.

This wildflower is Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia). It is also known as Spoonwood. It is common in this area along wooded breaks.

Another image of Philadelphia Fleabane (Erigeron philadelphicus). I find this wildflower extremely interesting and very photogenic
.

This wildflower is Wild Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana). It is easily identifed by the large star amongst the white petals
.

This wildflower is Indian Strawberry (Duchesnea indica). It is very similar to the Wild Strawberry above, except the large star is amongst the yellow petals.

This wildflower is Common Speedwell (Veronica officinalis). It is dry fields and open woods. The blooms are very small, and look similar to Corn Speedwell.

This wildflower is Bladder Campion (Silene vulgaris). It is found growing in fields and on roadsides.

This wildflower is Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum). I do not see them often, but when I do, they are in large clusters of plants.

Franklin County Wildflower Trip

2009-05-13T08:03:00.000-07:00

I made another trip to Franklin County to check on the wildflowers in bloom, and I was not disappointed. These wildflowers are located on a friends property outside of Boones Mill, and it is always a joy to walk around and photograph the area. This time, we were being closely watched by a Flying Squirrel that had taken up residence in a bird house on one of the trees. Plus, the Goldfinches were en masse at the bird feeder, so I could not resist a few pics of the beautiful yellow birds.

This flower is called Blue Star or Blue Dogbane (Amsonia tabernaemontana). This is going to be growing in one of my flowerbeds. I just purchased this plant from the Blue Ridge Wildflower Society.

This flower is a Common Buttercup (Ranunculus acris). It is a rather common bloom in May. This image was taken in SW Roanoke City.

This is a Wild Pansy (Viola tricolor). This image was taken in SW Roanoke City.

This wildflower is a Lance-Leaved Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata). This wildflower can be found in several types of blooms, from a singe layer of petals, like this one, to many layers, forming a very full bloom.

This is Fire Pink (Silene virginica). It is not extremely common, but a very beautiful red wildflower. One of my favorites, but very hard to photograph.

This is the open bloom of Wild Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus).

This is another open bloom of Wild Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus).

Another photograph of Fire Pink (Silene virginica). It seems to like to grow in shadier surroundings.

This wildflower is Indian Strawberry (Duchesnea indica).

This wildflower is Daisy Fleabane (Erigeron strigosus). It is a member of the Aster Family (Asteraceae).

This beautiful hanging wildflower is Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum commutatum). It is a member of the Lily Family (Liliaceae).

This odd looking wildflower is Mouse Ear Hawkweed (Pilosella officinarum). It is a wind dependant seeder.

This wildflower is a Swamp Buttercup (Ranunculus septentrionalis), although it looks like the common buttercup above. The way to tell them apart is their leaves.

This is a wider view of the Swamp Buttercup (Ranunculus septentrionalis). Here you can see the narrow leaves. The common buttercup has similar, but wider leaves.

This is the little flying squirrel that was watching me from above as I photographed the wildflowers.

Just in case you wanted a closer view.

The Flame Azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum) is in bloom again. However, you need to catch it quick.

This flower is called Pyracantha.

Here is one of the Goldfinch that was flying in the area.

Here are a couple more. I call this image "Yellow Birdy Butts".

More Wildflowers In My Yard

2009-05-11T19:55:00.000-07:00

I have found a way to fill in the short breaks in my work at home. I grab the camera and photograph the increasing number of wildflowers that have taken up residence in my yard. I have never noticed this many varieties before, but I probably just didn't notice. I hope you like these.

A Red Azalea, blooming a bit later than the others. This color is so rich, it is hard to do it justice in a photo.

This flower is called Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum). This is another bunch growing in one of my flowerbeds. These wildflowers are simply beautiful, and rival Bloodroot as one of my favorites.

The Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum), This time a side view image. Considering these blooms are only six inches off the ground, I had to get low to shoot this image.

These are a few more of the Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum) in my yard. I am a lucky person to have them visiting me this spring.

This wildflower is known as Common Mallow (Malva neglecta). Thanks to Doug with the "heads up" on this identification.

Amazing What I Found In My Yard

2009-05-03T09:21:00.000-07:00

I was out working around the yard the other day and spotted a wildflower, a Star of Bethlehem. Then more of them. I started poking around the area and found a nice assortment of wildflowers right here in the yard. I grabbed the camera and started shooting. Here is what I found.

This is an Azalea. It is one of the assorted colors growing in my yard.

Another Azalea. Different Color

Another Azalea, with buds. Different Color

Another Azalea. This has to be my favorite Azalea in my yard.

Growing right near the yellow Azalea was this Spiderwort. The petals are curled, so I was stumped a bit when I first saw it.

Another Azalea, this time in a nice blooming cluster. Different Color

This flower is called Bleeding Hearts (Dicentra spectabilis), also known as Dutchman's Trousers. This is a very nice, and different wildflower, native to Japan.

This is also a Bleeding Hearts (Dicentra spectabilis). This is a very dark pink bloom. Most are lighter is color.

This is also Bleeding Hearts (Dicentra spectabilis), but in this color, it is more commonly called Dutchman's Trousers.

This flower is called Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis). It is the only species in the genus Convallaria.

This flower is unknown at this time. If you can identify it, please let me know.

This flower is called Barren Strawberry (Waldsteinia fragarioides). It is mildly common in this area.

This flower is called Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum). This wildflower is staging a large presence in my yard, including the middle of my lawn. They will be carefully transplanted.

This flower is known as Blue Bugle, Bugleweed, or Carpetweed (Ajuga reptans)

This flower is White Lilac (Syringa vulgaris). It is usually purple, but this variant is white. It has the lilac smell, just like the purple variety.

This flower is White Phlox. I am not sure of the genus or species.

This flower is also Phlox, but it is oddly striped. I am not sure of the genus or species.

Another day of images, and another oddity

2009-04-17T18:35:00.000-07:00

Well, I could not pass the chance to get out on a beautiful day like today. I traveled a bit of the highways and byways before I stopped at Mill Mountain to see what was blooming. The Bloodroot was gone, and the Vinca minor were thinning, but the Vinca major and others were popping into view. Here are some of the images I shot, including something I have never seen before. It is a four petal Vinca minor, in white, no less. Enjoy.

Forget-Me-Nots (Myosotis scorpiodes). I love this shade of blue. Found in moist soil and streamside.

This is a Primrose (Pimula vulgaris). The name is derived from Latin, prima rosa, meaning "first rose" for its early blooming period in Europe.

Here is my friend, the Periwinkle (Vinca minor), but this time in lavender. Finding this one allowed me to photograph the Periwinkle in all three colors... Blue, White, and Lavender.

This is Ragwort. I believe it is Balsam Ragwort (Packera paupercula), but it could also be Golden Ragwort (Packera aurea). The main way to tell is the leaves, but this wildflower has leaves that look a little like both species.

Large Flowered Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum). Very distinctive flower with its three petals

A Vinca minor? This odd Vinca minor has only four petals, instead of the standard five petals of the species. I have no idea how rare this is, but I have found no other mention of this configuration in any references.

This is a Wood Poppy (Stylophorum diphyllum). This is a very impressive bloom, but in spite of its hardy appearance, it is a fragile bloom.

Here is the same Wood Poppy as above, but photographed with a difference lens to give a different look to the wildflower.

This is Spring Beauty (Claytonia virginica). These are small, yet stunning wildflowers also prefer moist surroundings.

Another Wood Poppy, but since it was facing the ground, I was forced to shoot it from below. That was tough, becaise the bloom was only about 12 inches off the ground. That is the blue sky in the background.

Let me introduce you to Garlic Mustard. This wildflower is not anywhere near as abundant as Wild Mustard. The blooms are very small, and not very prominent.

A Sunny Easter Sunday Pays Off with a Rare Find

2009-04-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

I was planning on taking it easy on Easter Sunday, but after seeing how nice a day it was, and how turbulent the weather was to be the rest of the week, I decided to head out to shoot a few images. I started out on the Blue Ridge Parkway. but the wildflowers are still a bit scarce at elevation, so I headed to Franklin County to see what was blooming there. That would turn out to be a good decision, as I was lucky enough to see a rare five petal Bluet. These can be found, but not very often, and most of the people I have talked to have never seen one. Well, below you will see some of the images I captured, including the rare Bluet. Enjoy.

This image of the Barren Strawberry (Waldsteinia fragarioides) was taken on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This was the only bloom on a very large embankment next to the BRP south of Roanoke.

This wildflower is everywhere in early spring, growing in fields and any open area. This is known as Wild Mustard or Field Mustard (Brassica campestris).

This wildflower is often called the Money Plant (Lunaria annua). This image was taken in Franklin County.

This is a Bluet (Houstonia caerulea). This specimen has the typical four petal design which makes Bluets easy to identify.

This wildflower is called Epimedium, also known as Barrenwort and Horny Goat Weed. Legend has it that it is an aphrodisiac, and was discovered by a chinese sheep farmer that noticed an increase in humping in his herd after the sheep would eat the Epimedium. Science has shown that this it partially true.

Although not technically a wildflower, I could not resist the chance to photograph an Apple Blossum.

A bunch of Bluets (Houstonia caerulea). Sometimes they will grow in groups like this, and sometimes they will be alone. These are beautiful wildflowers.

This is the image of the extremely rare five petal Bluet. From what I can find, the odds of this growth is one in millions. This little beauty is in Franklin County.

I have shown images of Periwinkles or (Vinca minor). This one is known is a Big Periwinkle, or (Vinca major). This bloom is between 1 and 2 inches across.

Here we have some Vinca Minor, or Periwinkle. But this is a variegated Vinca minor. If you look at the leaves, the variegation of white defines the species.

I cannot let the Apple have the only tree blossum. Here is a beautiful Pear Blossum.

Wildflower Move from Digital Roanoke

2009-04-12T21:13:00.000-07:00

I started the Digital Roanoke Blog to document things that were happening around Roanoke through photographs. I started to post quite a few wildflower images that I had taken to that blog. Somehow, they didn't seem to go together, so I started a new blog just for my wildflower images. This is it. All future wildflower images will be posted to this blog, and I have transferred all of the previous wildflower related posts from Digital Roanoke to this blog. The wildflower entries will soon be removed from Digital Roanoke.
So, again, welcome to the Blue Ridge Wildflowers blog. If you are on Facebook, you can also join our group there at Blue Ridge Wildflowers.

4/2/09 - Another visit to my Mill Mountain refuge

2009-04-12T21:04:00.000-07:00

Folks, if you have not been up to Mill Mountain and visited the Wildflower Garden, you really need to take the opportunity to do so. What a beautiful place it is. However, please keep your children and animals under control in this area. As I was photographing these wildflowers, a woman and a young girl were walking in the area. Unfortunately, the woman was letting her daughter walk all over the place, including walking off the paths and trampling the wildflowers that are growing here. While the child probably did not know better, the older woman was clearly ignorant of proper etiquette and manners by not relaying to the youngster that destroying other peoples property is wrong. When I see things like this, it really dims my hope for humanity and peaceful coexistence with nature.

I have photographed a few more of the flowers on Mill Mountain, and the variety in bloom grows every time I visit. Here are a few images.

The Bloodroot are in bloom, and more of them are coming up every visit.
This wildflower is a personal favorite.

This wildflower is a Marsh Marigold. I was finally able to identify it
with one of my reference books.

Another image of the Bloodroot, this time with a pair of blooms
attended by a Periwinkle in the image.

A cluster of Bloodroot before they are in full bloom.

Primrose (Pimula vulgaris).

This is a rarer color for the Periwinkle, white.
It can also be found in lavender, but is primarily blue.

Another image of the white Periwinkle, this time with some image of the leaves.
This wildflower, Vinca minor, is known as Periwinkle, Myrtle, and Creeping Myrtle.

Cyprus Spurge (Euphobia cyparissias).

This is a closer, more personal, image of the Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris).

3/18/09 - A Beautiful Day for Photography

2009-04-12T21:03:00.000-07:00

The sun was shining, the temperature was in the mid '70's, and I wanted to get out and run around a bit. I started off by driving to South Roanoke and parking, the jumping aboard the "Star Line" for a ride downtown to have lunch with a couple of friends. It was my first time on the Star Line, and it was a pleasurable experience for the most part. However, whoever thought of making the benches from wood, and then finishing them with a shiny, smooth coat of finish should sit on the bus when it makes an unexpected stop. I think they should reconsider the covering for the benches. After I rode the bus back to South Roanoke, I jumped in the car and decided to shoot some more wildflowers. Again, a very relaxing and calming experience for me. I just love to photograph these flowers. I always have, and probably always will.

I hope you like them.

Ahh. The trees are in bloom. This cluster of blooms was on a tree in South Roanoke.

The Hellebore are still blooming, but this combination of blooms caught my attention. I looked around and I saw no others that appeared to be looking at each other, yet this close.

This is my first chance to photograph this beautiful, elusive wildflower. This is Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis). It is an early spring bloomer, and really stunning to look at.

This wildflower is the Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris).

This is another Bloodroot wildflower, but further along in growth from the other flower in the image above. Please do not pick these wildflowers. They are hard enough to find already.

This is Periwinkle (Vinca minor), and this little bloom was standing alone next to a log.I could not resist the contrast to the log in the background. This fragile bloom is about 3/4 of an inch across its face.

3/9/09 - Early Start to the Wildflower Season

2009-04-12T21:01:00.000-07:00

Last year, the start of the wildflower season slipped right past me. I was not going to let it slip by again this year. I have been photographing the wildflowers in the Roanoke area since they started blooming a few weeks ago, and here are some of the images so far. Again, I am having trouble identifying some of these wildflowers, so if you can help out, just send me a comment. I would appreciate it.

This is Winter Jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum). A very early blooming shrub. This one is growing on the hillside on the road below the Discovery Center on Mill Mountain. Thanks to Paul and Phoebe at the Discovery Center for their help identifying this wildflower.

This Hellebore (Veratrum viride) is a green wildflower. It is one of the most unusual wildflowers that I have seen in quantity. Beautiful species.

The wildflowers above are called Periwinkle, and is also known as Vinca Minor (apocynum cannabinum).

The wildflowers above are called Snowdrops, and its variety is known as the Common Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis).

This wildflower is known as a Corn Speedwell (Veronica arvensis). It is a wildflower, but it is often treated as a weed by lawn snobs.

This is Red Dead Nettle (Lamium purpureum)

This is Winter Jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum), but this bloom is completely yellow and has 5 petals. This flower was growing on Wiley Drive.

10/13/08 - Action in the Gardens at the Garden Clubs Facility

2009-04-12T21:00:00.000-07:00

After taking in the Orchid Show, I stepped out into the crisp, cool breeze and bright, warm sunshine. I closed my eyes and tilted my face to the sun for one of my favorite experiences. I love the feeling of the sun warming your face, and then a cool breeze sweeping the warmth away, only to warm up again after the breeze subsides. It is one of life's simple pleasures.

That is when I noticed that the Roanoke Council of Garden Clubs had some flowers in one of their gardens. I decided to grab a few more shots. As I was shooting the east side of the garden, I noticed movement in the west side of the garden. I turned to see a small assembly of Monarch butterflies tasting the flowers.

I can't pass up a chance to photograph butterflies, but this could very well be an exercise in futility. You see, the best time to photograph butterflies is in the morning, just before the sun rises. They are chilled from the night, very lethargic, and usually will not move, except to spread their wings to gather the warmth from the rising sun and warming air currents. This was mid-afternoon, and with a very stiff breeze. Even when they lighted on the flowers, they were moving in the breeze. But, they were there, I was there, what the heck.
As I slowly moved closer, they noticed and scattered, moving to flowers at the far west side of the garden. From past experience, I moved to a good shooting position and then froze for a while. Sure enough, they eventually relaxed and came back to my area. They were very cooperative, but had to keep their wings closed to keep from being blown off the flowers. Still, I managed to take some good shots, thanked them for being so cordial, and went on my way.

A nice cluster of Black Eyed Susan's, back lit by the afternoon sun.

This is the Bachelor Button (Centaurea cyanus), also known as a Cornflower. Thanks to Cheryl Kessler in identifying this flower for me.

This is a large Marigold (Species is Tagetes, not sure of this particular Genus). Thanks to Cheryl Kessler in identifying this flower for me.

A nice close-up of one of the guests.

I was having real difficulty getting the butterflies to open their wings while on a flower. So I asked this one if it would help me out. It did, much to my surprise.

I really like the composition of this shot.

But, I believe this is my favorite shot of the butterflies that afternoon.

10/13/08 - Blue Ridge Orchid Society Show

2009-04-12T20:57:00.000-07:00

I had the distinct pleasure of attending an event that I have never attended before. I noticed the the newspaper that the Blue Ridge Orchid Society was holding a show on October 10th and 11th at the Roanoke Council of Garden Clubs facility on Colonial Avenue in SW Roanoke County. Since I have been spending a bit of time photographing wildflowers lately, I figured I would check this event for some unusual flowers. Well, I was not disappointed. These orchids have some of the oddest coloration and shapes that I have ever seen in a flower. They were beautiful, and intensely interesting. I am told that orchids can be very difficult to grow, but you could not tell that from the variety of flowers displayed at this event. I wish to thank Denise Gresham of the Blue Ridge Orchid Society for spending her time to help me identify these Orchids. The Blue Ridge Orchid Society is a really nice group of people, and if you are interested in their group, their next meeting is
November 9, 2008 at the Roanoke Council of Garden Clubs.

This orchid is called Vanda Robert's Delight

This variety is called Odcdm Crowborough 'Spice Island'

This orchid has marking that looks to me like Eddie, the dog from the Frasier TV show, wearing sunglasses. This variety is know as Odm Midnight Miracle

I really like the colors of this orchid, known as Dtps. Lonnie Morris

This Orchid has a long name. It is Ascda. Gou Che Long x V. Black Magic

This Orchid is truly graceful. It is called Lc. Wolterae

This variety is known as Den. Emma White

This Orchid is called V. Josephine Van Brero x V. Southeast Beauty

6/25/08 - Thanks for help with flower identification

2009-04-12T20:56:00.000-07:00

I have been photographing wildflowers like a crazy person for the past 3 months. I don't know what I am photographing, most of the time, but I know what looks good through my camera. Then I research what I can, and post them here. Often, I ask for help from viewers of this blog. I would like to take time to thank Katherine Hix for her ongoing assistance in helping to identify these flowers. She has been a very accurate resource for finding the genus and species of these wildflowers. Katherine, Thank you for the help. I do appreciate it.

6/25/08 - Along the roads to Smith Mountain Lake

2009-04-12T20:55:00.000-07:00

It was another nice day in Roanoke, and though not as cool as it has been in the past week, it was not too hot either. So, I took the opportunity to head to Smith Mountain Lake for the day. The wildflowers below are what I found either along the roadsides, or at Smith Mountain Lake.

The flowers above, as best I can tell, are Coreopsis ariculata, also known as Nana Coreopsis.

The flowers above are called Everlasting Pea, or Lathyrus latifolius. These grow in large clumps of vines.

The flowers above are the relatively easy to find Black-eyed Susan, or Rudbeckia hirta.

This flower is known as a Lance-leaved Coreopsis, Coreopsis lanceolata.

6/2/08 - Back to the Blue Ridge Wildflowers

2009-04-12T20:52:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry. I really am enjoying getting out and photographing the wildflowers in the surrounding area. I made a trip a bit south on the Blue Ridge Parkway to try to catch the bloom of the Grey's Lily. Over 20 years ago, a Parkway Ranger told me that he had seen a Grey's Lily blooming just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Grey's Liliy is a very rare lily, and is almost exclusively found in the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina, on higher altitude balds and rocky soil. Finding one this far north, in Virginia, would be an awesome thing. I guess I'll keep looking. While I was driving around on the Parkway, using my four dollar a gallon gas, I decided to hunt for a few more wildflowers. Being late spring, early summer, the abundance of wildflowers has dropped, but they still can be found, and photographed. Here is a bit of what I found on June 17, 18, and 19, 2008.

This is a Deptford Pink (Dianthus armeria). Not a native Virginia wildflower, it is actually native to England. I saw it all alone on the side of the Blue Ridge Parkway. I looked a quarter mile around this flower, and found no others.

This is, again, the OxEye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare). These are still quite numerous along the Parkway.

The above images are on the Canadian Dwarf Cinquefoil. These are some of my favorite flowers to photograph.

If anyone knows what this flower is, please let me know.

The above orange cluster of flowers is known as Butterfly Weed

This beautiful flower is the Day Lily. Now, if I can find its cousin, Grey's Lily.

This is Dame's Rocket (Hesperis matronalis).

This wildflower is the Wild Bergamot, early in it bloom. It is also known as Bee Balm. Thanks to Cheryl Kessler in identifying this for me.

This wildflower is called a Thread-Leaved Coreopsis, (Coreopsis verticillata).

The above wildflowers are Mayweed. My first images of this particular wildflower.

A butterfly enjoys the offerings of the Wild Bergamot.

Again, our friend, the OxEye Daisy.

The above wildflowers are in the wildflower areas along Interstate 581. Not strictly defined as a wildflower, these are a hybrid Day Lily, called "Stella d'Oro". It is a variety of the wild Day Lily seen above.

These are called "Rose of Sharon", and are Hibuscus Syriacus. They can be a pervasive, nuisance species if they get out of control.