Wildflowers of the Panhandle Wildflowers – those planted by the Good Lord Himself in some of the most unlikely places – are nothing short of miracles. Text by Kristen Friesen Photographs by Steve and Bobbi Olson |
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WHEN THE FLOWERS WE PLANT, fertilize, cut back and faithfully water respond to our touch, there is pride and satisfaction. But wildflowers – those planted by the Good Lord Himself in some of the most unlikely places – are nothing short of miracles. They splash color up and down our sand hills, greet us along our Nebraska highways and byways and, in essence, transform the hardy grasses of prairie and pasture alike with grace. Join us as we celebrate Wildflower Week, May 30-June 7, with this pictorial tour of the Panhandle’s wildflowers. Even within the border of our own state, flower names may vary from place to place – but don’t be surprised if you recognize a familiar face. It’s one lush, lovely landscape!
Dame’s Rocket, also known as sweet rocket, is a gregarious tease. Boasting white, pink or purple blooms (four petals per flower) – which give off an intoxicating aroma, particularly at nightfall – it stands a height of 3-4 feet. Though a prolific seeder, dame’s rocket has the last laugh. Because its seeds are bitter, ground-foraging birds do not consume enough to prevent this little lady from being labeled “noxious.” This picture was taken in Box Butte County, but dame’s rocket is often found popping up along roads, waving hello as we hurry by.
Prairie Ragwort, despite its name, is pure elegance. It tosses its blonde head in the breeze. With as many as 15 flowers, each up to an inch wide, supported by a leggy stem (12 to 16 inches in height), this plant is a knock-out. Along its leaves and stems, gray, woolly hairs wrap it in fashion befitting a model. Its favorite runways are dry sites and clay soils. It stands tall and undisturbed – the definition of “eye candy.”