Around this time of year, when the grass starts to green up here and there, it stirs me to watch for the short-lived, earliest spring flowers like bloodroot. It’s the annual ‘ephemeral anticipation’ time.

The vernal witch hazel is just wrapping up blooming here. It bloomed a few weeks ago in some other areas around us, but we’re always a week or two behind schedule for things like that. This variety is endemic only to the Ozarks. Here’s a pic I took years ago:

Other Ephemerals

Bloodroot, rue anemone, trout lilies, bellwort are all on the list for the early arrivals to watch for. Sometimes these are out in March, but it’s usually closer to April.

After they’ve been on the scene for a few weeks, then it’s time to start watching for the ginseng and cohosh to unfurl and the Showy orchid to bloom.

Ephemeral and Orchid Walk

If you’d like to come with me on a hike to spot the ephemerals, orchids, and other herbs, let me know. My email is madison@wildozark.com and I offer herbwalks, orchid walks, and plein air art experiences out here at Wild Ozark. I can let you know when they’re scheduled, or you can sign up for my mailing list and check off the box to be notified of workshops and events.

Nature-influenced Art

If you’re new here and haven’t seen my artwork, here’s a few of my personal favorites. And here’s where you can view it all! Here’s the available originals, but prints are available for all of them.

Want Land like this, too?

If you’re in the market to buy your own slice of the Ozarks, I can help you find property as wild as Wild Ozark. My contact card is below!