Sightings – Plants
Observer: Kathy Farrell
Observation Date: 10/31/18
Observation Time: N/A
Observation Location: Off Mountain Street, off Bay Rd.
Common Name: Evergreen Fern, or Christmas Fern
Scientific Name: Polystichum acrostichoides
Comments: One of the commonest ferns in eastern North America, being found in moist and shady habitats in woodlands, rocky slopes, and stream banks. The common name derives from the evergreen fronds which are often still green at Christmas in December.
More information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/22/18
Observation Time: 9:40 a.m.
Observation Location: Town conservation land near Beaver Brook
Common Name: Cinnamon Fern
Scientific Name: Osmundastrum cinnamomeum
Comments: The Osmundastrum cinnamomeum fern forms huge clonal colonies in swampy areas. These ferns form massive rootstocks with densely matted, wiry roots. This root mass is an excellent substrate for many epiphytal plants. They are often harvested as osmunda fiber and used horticulturally, especially in propagating and growing orchids. Cinnamon Ferns do not actually produce cinnamon; they are named for the color of the fertile fronds.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 4/27/24
Observation Time: 4:10 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (The Trustees of Reservations)
Common Name: Common Blue Violet
Scientific Name: Viola sororia
Comments: The blossoms of common blue violets come in colors ranging from white to purple. The two plants shown in the photos were growing a few feet from each other.
More information: Wild Edible
The pasture at Moose Hill Farm near the spot where these violets were growing:
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/5/18
Observation Time: 8:00 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Common Blue Violet
Scientific Name: Viola sororia
Comments: For information, see: http://thebotanicalhiker.blogspot.com/2015/04/eating-wild-identifying-wild-edible.html
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/7/23
Observation Time: 6:25 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Common Blue Violet
Scientific Name: Viola sororia
Comments: These were growing along the driveway leading into the parking lot. Please do not dig up wildflowers.
More information: The Botanical Hiker
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/16/23
Observation Time: 3:40 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Common Buttercup
Scientific Name: Ranunculus acris
Comments: The Common Buttercup (Ranunculus acris); also called Tall Buttercup, Meadow Buttercup and Blister Plant; is a perennial forb/herb in the Ranunculaceae family. The family and genus names come from the Latin for “little frog” because this family prefers wet areas. It’s also called Tall Crowfoot because of the irregular shape of the leaves. The species name is from the Latin for “bad tasting,” that is, acrid. This plant has a very acrid fluid (glycoside ranunculin) that discourages foraging by animals.
More Information: French Hill Pond Field Plants and Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/23/18
Observation Time: 8:55 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)
Common Name: Common Buttercup
Scientific Name: Ranunculus acris
Comments: The Common Buttercup (Ranunculus acris); also called Tall Buttercup, Meadow Buttercup and Blister Plant; is a perennial forb/herb in the Ranunculaceae family. The family and genus names come from the Latin for “little frog” because this family prefers wet areas. It’s also called Tall Crowfoot because of the irregular shape of the leaves. The species name is from the Latin for “bad tasting,” that is, acrid. This plant has a very acrid fluid (glycoside ranunculin) that discourages foraging by animals.
More Information: French Hill Pond Field Plants and Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 7/17/10
Observation Time: 9:10 a.m.
Observation Location: near Gavins Pond
Common Name: Common Greenshield Lichen
Scientific Name: Flavoparmelia caperata
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 7/12/20
Observation Time: 7:10 p.m.
Observation Location: along Gavins Pond Road
Common Name: Common Mugwort
Scientific Name: Artemesia vulgaris
Comments: Common mugwort is used as a culinary herb and medicinally throughout the world.
More Information: Botanical.com and Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 4/16/19
Observation Time: 2:00 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Common Mullein
Scientific Name: Verbascum thapsus
Comments: Verbascum thapsus has a wide native range including Europe, northern Africa and Asia, from the Azores and Canary Islands east to western China, north to the British Isles, Scandinavia and Siberia, and south to the Himalayas. In the United States it was imported very early in the 18th century and cultivated for its medicinal and piscicide properties. By 1818, it had begun spreading so much that Amos Eaton thought it was a native plant. In 1839 it was already reported in Michigan and in 1876, in California. It is now found commonly in all the states.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/13/20
Observation Time: 5:15 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Common Mullein
Scientific Name: Verbascum thapsus
Comments: Verbascum thapsus has a wide native range including Europe, northern Africa and Asia, from the Azores and Canary Islands east to western China, north to the British Isles, Scandinavia and Siberia, and south to the Himalayas. In the United States it was imported very early in the 18th century and cultivated for its medicinal and piscicide (fish poisoning) properties. By 1818, it had begun spreading so much that Amos Eaton thought it was a native plant. In 1839 it was already reported in Michigan and in 1876, in California. It is now found commonly in all the states.
The leaves are kind of fuzzy. A tall stalk of yellow flowers will shoot up soon from the main plant.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 7/11/10
Observation Time: 9:45 a.m.
Observation Location: Gavins Pond Road
Common Name: Common Mullein
Scientific Name: Verbascum thapsus
Comments: Mullein is widely used for herbal remedies, with well-established emollient and astringent properties. Mullein remedies are especially recommended for coughs and related problems, but also used in topical applications against a variety of skin problems. The plant has also been used to make dyes and torches.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/2/11
Observation Time: 4:45 p.m.
Observation Location: Gavins Pond
Common Name: Crab Apple
Scientific Name: Pyrus baccata
Comments: Red-tinged hairless leaves indicate this is may be a Siberian crab apple.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/3/20
Observation Time: 9:30 a.m.
Observation Location: near Gavins Pond
Common Name: Crabapple tree
Scientific Name: Malus spp.
Comments: Crabapple trees have lovely pink and white blossoms in spring. The apples they produce are tiny.
More Information: Crabapple tree indentification
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/21/19
Observation Time: 7:00 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Creeping Myrtle
Scientific Name: Vinca minor
Comments: Also known as dwarf periwinkle, this non-native plant comes from Europe. It makes a good groundcover, and it produces lovely purple blossoms in spring and into summer, but once established it spreads and is hard to eradicate.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 4/26/24
Observation Time: 10:15 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary (boardwalk)
Common Name: Crome Sphagnum Moss
Scientific Name: Sphagnum squarrosum
Comment: This is our largest Sphagnum and one you’re not likely to confuse with much else. It is widespread in Europe, from the high Arctic to the deciduous forest zone, and it’s also found in Northern Asia and N America, including continental interiors.
More Information: British Bryological Society
Observer: Hana Jenner
Observation Date: 6/9/19
Observation Time: 2:20 p.m.
Observation Location: on a log beside a trail near Brook Road
Common Name: Crown-tipped Coral Fungus
Scientific Name: Artomyces pyxidatus
Comments: This is one of the few coral fungi found on decaying wood. The crown-like tips of the branches are unlike those of any of the other coral fungi, thus making this species relatively easy to identify.
More Information: University of Arkansas mushroom species list
Observer: Gaurav Shah
Observation Date: 7/1/23
Observation Time: 4:00 p.m.
Observation Location: trail off Billings St.
Common Name: Crown-tipped Coral Fungus
Scientific Name: Artomyces pyxidatus
Comments: This is one of the few coral fungi found on decaying wood. The crown-like tips of the branches are unlike those of any of the other coral fungi. Seek (the free cell phone app) readily identified it.
More Information: University of Arkansas mushroom species list
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/12/15
Observation Time: 4:30 p.m.
Observation Location: conservation land at Lakeview & Morse Streets
Common Name: Cypress Spurge
Scientific Name: Euphorbia cyparissias
Comments: Cypress spurge is an invasive perennial plant from Eurasia. Its extensive underground root system spreads by means of lateral root buds. It proliferates into large clonal colonies.
Baltimore checkerspot butterflies feed on cypress spurge flowers.
More Information: Vermont Invasives
Cypress spurge with Baltimore checkerspot butterfly chrysalis:
Cypress spurge with Baltimore checkerspot butterfly:
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/28/10
Observation Time: 1:55 p.m.
Observation Location: 147 Wolomolopoag St., Sharon
Common Name: Daisy Fleabane
Scientific Name: Erigeron annuus
Comments: Fleabanes get their common name from an old belief that they repelled fleas and other pestiferous insects. Early European settlers in North America stuffed mattresses with fleabane and hung clusters of plants in their cabins to drive out fleas. The custom persisted for generations, even though Daisy Fleabane appears to have no insect-repelling ability whatsoever. In fact, the plant ATTRACTS insects—not only pollinators but also tiny herbivores that nibble away the ray flowers and leave only the central disk.
More Information: Hilton Pond Center
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 7/23/09
Observation Time: 9:45 a.m.
Observation Location: Gavins Pond Road
Common Name: Daisy Fleabane
Scientific Name: Erigeron annuus
Comments: Fleabanes get their common name from an old belief that they repelled fleas and other pestiferous insects. Early European settlers in North America stuffed mattresses with fleabane and hung clusters of plants in their cabins to drive out fleas. The custom persisted for generations, even though Daisy Fleabane appears to have no insect-repelling ability whatsoever. In fact, the plant ATTRACTS insects—not only pollinators but also tiny herbivores that nibble away the ray flowers and leave only the central disk.
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/4/20
Observation Time: 11:15 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Dame’s Rocket
Scientific Name: Hesperis matronalis
Comments: Dame’s rocket (Hesperis matronalis) is a tall, short-lived perennial, which produces white, pink or purple flowers in the spring. Known for its colorful and fragrant blooms, the plant has been a traditional garden favorite. However, in recent years, Dame’s rocket has gone rogue, moving from yards and garden plantings into the adjoining landscapes. These flowers were growing rampantly in the Billings Loop meadow.
More Information: Applied Ecological Services
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/23/18
Observation Time: 9:30 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Dandelion
Scientific Name: Taraxacum officinale
Comments: Native to Europe, it has spread nearly worldwide. The young leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. The taproot can be boiled and eaten or dried and ground as a base for a hot drink.
More Information: Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/2/19
Observation Time: 3:15 p.m.
Observation Location: Along the dirt road under the power lines on the other side of South Main Street from Ward’s Berry Farm
Common Name: Deer-tongue Grass
Scientific Name: Dichanthelium clandestinum
Comments: Deer-tongue grass is a perennial cool-season grass native to eastern North America. It grows to 2′ to 4′ tall. It is tolerant of low pH soils, high concentrations of aluminum, drought conditions, and infertile soils. For these reasons, it is used in revegetating acid mine sites. Deer-tongue grass prefers moist to wet sites and does best in full sun. This grass produces two seed crops; a spring crop in an open panicle and a fall crop that remains mostly enclosed in the leaf sheath. Birds eat the seed and the plant lodges during the winter forming a dense cover for wildlife.
More Information: Roundstone Native Seed
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 7/12/20
Observation Time: 6:40 p.m.
Observation Location: along Gavins Pond Road
Common Name: Deer-tongue Grass
Scientific Name: Dichanthelium clandestinum
Comments: Deer-tongue grass is a perennial cool-season grass native to eastern North America. It can grow up to 4′ tall. It is tolerant of low pH soils, high concentrations of aluminum, drought conditions, and infertile soils. For these reasons, it is used in revegetating acid mine sites. Deer-tongue grass prefers moist to wet sites and does best in full sun. This grass produces two seed crops; a spring crop in an open panicle and a fall crop that remains mostly enclosed in the leaf sheath. Birds eat the seed and the plant lodges during the winter forming a dense cover for wildlife.
More Information: Roundstone Native Seed and Illinoiswildflowers.info
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/27/15
Observation Time: 3:30 p.m.
Observation Location: my back yard (Gavins Pond Road)
Common Name: Deptford Pink
Scientific Name: Dianthus armeria
Comments: Deptford Pink is an introduced species from Europe.
More Information: Maryland Biodiversity Project
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 7/6/14
Observation Time: 12:45 p.m.
Observation Location: near Gavins Pond
Common Name: Deptford Pink
Scientific Name: Dianthus armeria
Comments:The Deptford pink is a European species, introduced and widespread in North America. Its name refers to the English town near London in which this species was formerly common.
More Information: Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 8/13/20
Observation Time: 3:30 p.m.
Observation Location: Mountain St.
Common Name: Devil’s Beggarticks
Scientific Name: Bidens Frondosa
Comments: A summer annual that may reach as much as 3 1/2 feet in height. Devils beggarticks has prickly fruit that facilitate seed dispersal by sticking to the fur and clothing of any animal or human that brushes by this weed when mature. Devils beggarticks is primarily a weed of pastures, hay fields, roadsides, landscapes, and nurseries. It is found throughout the United States.
More information: University of Missouri
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/26/10
Observation Time: 5:25 p.m.
Observation Location: edge of woods by Gavins Pond near soccer fields
Common Name: Dewberry
Scientific Name: Rubus flagellaris
Comments: Dewberries are found in the eastern half of North America. Indians prepared a tea using northern dewberry roots to calm stomach irritation. The fruits are large and tasty. They can be eaten raw or used in jams, jellies, and sauces.
Dewberries start out green, then turn to orange, then red, and finally black when fully ripe.
More Information: Wikipedia
Dewberry blossom photographed on 5/26/10:
Unripe dewberries photographed on 6/27/10:
Ripening dewberries photographed on 6/28/10 at 147 Wolomolopoag St.
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/28/10
Observation Time: 2:00 p.m.
Observation Location: 154 Wolomolopoag St.
Common Name: Dewberry
Scientific Name: Rubrus species
Comments: Not sure if this is Rubrus flagellaris, the northern dewberry, or some other Rubrus species such as Rubrus hispidus, the swamp dewberry.
More Information: Dewberries and Brambles: University of Massachusetts
Observer: Deborah Gilden
Observation Date: 5/27/24
Observation Time: late afternooon
Observation Location: Deborah Sampson and Billings corner “In memory of John Lowden…”
Common Name: Dogwood
Scientific Name: Cornus (genus)
Comments: Cornus is a genus of about 30–60 species of woody plants in the family Cornaceae, commonly known as dogwoods or cornels, which can generally be distinguished by their blossoms, berries, and distinctive bark.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Rita Corey
Observation Date: 8/13/20
Observation Time: 1:40 p.m.
Observation Location: Rattlesnake Hill
Common Name: Downy Rattlesnake Plantain Orchid
Scientific Name: Goodyera pubescens
Comments: Please don’t dig up wildflowers.
More Information: Virginia Native Plant Society
Observer: Rita Corey
Observation Date: 6/23/19
Observation Time: 2:15 p.m.
Observation Location: Rattlesnake Hill
Common Name: Downy Rattlesnake Plantain Orchid
Scientific Name: Goodyera pubescens
Comments: Please don’t dig up wildflowers.
More Information: USDA Plant Fact Sheet
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/14/11
Observation Time: 2:10 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Dwarf ginseng
Scientific Name: Panax trifolius
Comments: This diminutive variety of ginseng has no “medicinal” properties.
It blooms in spring and dies back in summer.
More Information: US Forest Service
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 4/28/24
Observation Time: 10:45 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)
Common Name: Early Meadow Rue
Scientific Name: Thalictrum dioicum
Comments: Early meadow-rue is a graceful, 8-30 in. perennial with long-stalked leaves divided into many delicate, lobed segments. Petal-less flowers have yellow stamens that hang like small tassels. The female tassel-like blossoms are purple and appear on separate plants.
This flower blooms in the spring, just as the trees are leafing out, which accounts for its common name. The species name alludes to the fact that the male and female flowers are on separate plants, and is derived from the Greek word meaning “two households.”
More Information: Lady Bird Johnson Wilflower Center
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/29/24
Observation Time: 12:15 p.m.
Observation Location: High Street, Sharon
Common Name: Eastern Hemlock tree
Scientific Name: Tsuga canadensis
Comments: Hemlocks are currently threatened by the hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae), a sap-sucking bug introduced from East Asia to the United States in 1924, and first found in the native range of eastern hemlock in the late 1960s. The adelgid has spread very rapidly in southern parts of the range once becoming established, while its expansion northward is slower, but progressing steadily as the climate warms.
Virtually all the hemlocks in the southern Appalachian Mountains have seen infestations of the insect within the last five to seven years, with thousands of hectares of stands dying within the last two to three years. Attempts to save representative examples on both public and private lands are on-going. A project named “Tsuga Search,” funded by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is being conducted to save the largest and tallest remaining eastern hemlocks in the Park. Through Tsuga Search, hemlocks have been found with trunk volumes up to 44.8 m³ within the park, making it the largest eastern evergreen conifer, eclipsing in volume both eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) and loblolly pine (Pinus taeda). Hemlocks are currently listed as a near threatened species in the IUCN Red List.
More Information: Wikipedia
The whitish blemishes on the underside of this hemlock frond are tiny insects called hemlock wooly adelgid, which suck the juice from the hemlock needles and, if left untreated, will eventually kill the tree.
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/9/20
Observation Time: 5:00 p.m.
Observation Location: conservation land across the street from the Gavins Pond soccer fields
Common Name: Eastern Redcedar Tree
Scientific Name: Juniperus virginiana
Comments: Birds love its berries.
More Information: Arbor Day Foundation
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/23/19
Observation Time: noon
Observation Location: Billings Loop Botanical Trail
Common Name: Enchanter’s Nightshade
Scientific Name: Circaea quadrisulcata
Comments: Enchanter’s nightshade is a member of the primrose family.
More Information: UMass Amherst Weed Herbarium
Observer: Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program employees
Observation Date: 9/4/20
Observation Time: 2:00 p.m.
Observation Location: undisclosed location in Sharon
Common Name: False Hop Sedge
Scientific Name: Carex lupuliformis
Comments: False Hop Sedge is an endangered species in Massachusetts. The NHESP observers said they saw only a few plants.
As of 9/4/20, this species does not appear on the list of rare species that have been documented in Sharon.
Please do not dig up or disturb plants you may encounter in the wild.
More information: Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/2/20
Observation Time: 10:55 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)
Common Name: False Solomon’s Seal
Scientific Name: Maianthemum racemosum
Comments: This herbaceous perennial plant is unbranched and grows to about knee-high. The central stem is somewhat erect and ascending. Flowers (then berries) occur at the end of the plant. Flowers occur in a plume-like cluster of minute florets and transform into a “bunch” of ruby red berries (although they do not all ripen at the same time).
The berries are edible and somewhat bittersweet (caution: large quantities can have a laxative effect). In traditional medicine the dried rhizomes can be used to brew a tea to treat coughs and constipation.
More Information: Edible Wild Food
Note the flower at the tip end of the plant. This distinguishes it from true Solomon’s Seal, which has flowers hanging in a row along the underside of the stem.
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/4/20
Observation Time: 11:20 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Field Horsetail
Scientific Name: Equisetum arvense
Comments: Field horsetail, a perennial plant of genus Equisetum, is the only living representative of the very ancient and primitive class Sphenopsida, tree-sized members of which were prominent in the land vegetation of the Carboniferous era (353-300 million years ago).
More Information: Minnesota Seasons
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 9/30/10
Observation Time: 6:10 p.m.
Observation Location: Gavins Pond Road
Common Name: Fly Agaric mushroom
Scientific Name: Amanita muscaria
Comments: Mushrooms of the genus Amanita account for most mushroom-related deaths. See: http://www.a1b2c3.com/drugs/var012.htm
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 4/27/24
Observation Time: 4:30 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (The Trustees of Reservations)
Common Name: Garlic mustard
Scientific Name: Alliaria petiolata
Comments: Garlic Mustard is a biennial. First year plants are a rosette of 3 to 4 round, scallop edged leaves. In second year the plant reaches height of 2 to 3 feet.
Leaves on bolting stems are triangular with large teeth. Flowers are white.
Introduced to North America in the 1860s as a culinary herb, garlic mustard is now a significant problem in woodlands of eastern United States.
More Information: Iowa State University Extension & Outreach
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/28/23
Observation Time: 11:45 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (under high tension wires)
Common Name: Golden Ragwort
Scientific Name: Senecio aureus (also known as Packera aurea)
Comments: Golden Ragwort is a biannual plant with yellow-orange flowers. It grows to a height of 2 feet and belongs to Asteraceae family (i.e. asters).
More Information: Grow Native
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/30/20
Observation Time: 3:50 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm
Common Name: Golden Ragwort
Scientific Name: Senecio aureus (also known as Packera aurea)
Comments: Golden Ragwort is a biannual plant with yellow-orange flowers. It grows to a height of 2 feet and belongs to Asteraceae family (i.e. asters).
More Information: New Moon Nursery
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/4/11
Observation Time: 2:20 p.m.
Observation Location: conservation land near Billings Street
Common Name: Golden Ragwort
Scientific Name: Senecio aureus
Comments: Golden Ragwort is a biannual plant with a yellow flower that grows upto a height of 2 feet and belongs to Asteraceae family (i.e. asters).
More Information: HealthBenefitsTimes.com or Illinois Wildflowers
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 9/12/09
Observation Time: 11:25 a.m.
Observation Location: Gavins Pond
Common Name: Goldenrod
Scientific Name: Solidago sp.
Comments: Goldenrod gets a bad rap as a cause of autumn allergies. The real culprit is ragweed. In fact, goldenrod has medicinal properties.
More Information: Great Plains Nature Center
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/9/20
Observation Time: 2:40 p.m.
Observation Location: meadow near Gavins Pond dam
Common Name: Gray Birch Tree
Scientific Name: Betula populifolia
Comments: Gray Birch is a small tree reaching a height of 20 to 30 feet. Bark is grayish white with little exfoliation compared to River Birch. Leaves are triangular with a narrow point, doubly serrated and fall color is light yellow. Branches become reddish brown with in a year and a dark V-shape patch appears just below. Gray Birch will grow in the poorest soils. Its wood is used for spools, barrel hoops and fuel. Several species of birds feed on the seeds and buds.
More Information: Native Trees of Indiana
Observer: Susan Drisko
Observation Date: 4/27/2022
Observation Time: 3:35 p.m.
Observation Location: Town-owned conservation land near Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Green False Hellebore
Scientific Name: Veratrum viride
Comments: Green false hellebore, or giant false-helleborine, is native to eastern and western (but not central) North America. It is extremely toxic, and is considered a pest plant by farmers with livestock. The species has acquired a large number of other common names within its native range, including American false hellebore, American white hellebore, bear corn, big hellebore, corn lily, devil’s bite, duck retten, itchweed, poor Annie, blue hellebore and tickleweed.
PLEASE DO NOT DIG UP WILD PLANTS.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/15/20
Observation Time: 9:40 a.m.
Observation Location: near Pond Street rotary by Lake Massapoag
Common Name: Ground Ivy (a.k.a. “Gill-over-the-ground”)
Scientific Name: Glechoma hederacea
Comments: Commonly known as ground-ivy, gill-over-the-ground, creeping charlie, alehoof, tunhoof, catsfoot, field balm, and run-away-robin, it has numerous medicinal uses, and is used as a salad green in many countries. European settlers carried it around the world, and it has become a well-established introduced and naturalized plant in a wide variety of localities.
More Information: Go Botany and Wikipedia and Wildflowers of the United States
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/23/18
Observation Time: 8:40 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)
Common Name: Ground Ivy (a.k.a. “Gill-over-the-ground”)
Scientific Name: Glechoma hederacea
Comments: Commonly known as ground-ivy, gill-over-the-ground, creeping charlie, alehoof, tunhoof, catsfoot, field balm, and run-away-robin, it has numerous medicinal uses, and is used as a salad green in many countries. European settlers carried it around the world, and it has become a well-established introduced and naturalized plant in a wide variety of localities.
More Information: Go Botany and Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/26/19
Observation Time: 8:40 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)
Common Name: Ground Ivy (a.k.a. “Gill-over-the-ground”)
Scientific Name: Glechoma hederacea
Comments: Commonly known as ground-ivy, gill-over-the-ground, creeping charlie, alehoof, tunhoof, catsfoot, field balm, and run-away-robin, it has numerous medicinal uses, and is used as a salad green in many countries. European settlers carried it around the world, and it has become a well-established introduced and naturalized plant in a wide variety of localities.
More Information: Go Botany and Wikipedia and Wildflowers of the United States
Observer: Kathy Farrell
Observation Date: 1/5/17
Observation Time: N/A
Observation Location: Path off Mountain Street, Sharon
Common Name: Ground Pine Club Moss (a.k.a. Princess Pine)
Scientific Name: Lycopodium obscurum
Comment: Also known as a “princess pine.” It looks like a baby pine tree, and stays green even in the winter.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Jean Zaniewski
Observation Date: 9/23/24
Observation Time: 12:15 p.m.
Observation Location: Nstar high tension line property near Old Post Rd
Common Name: Hairy Mountain Mint
Scientific Name: Pycnanthemum verticillatum var. pilosum
Comments: This plant grows to 3 feet tall 3 feet wide. I was attracted to this wildflower as I walked because it is taller, more robust; and a later, more prolific flower producer than the Blunt Mountain Mint which I have cultivated in my home garden. Pollinators certainly seem to love both varieties.
More information: North Carolina Extension
Observer: Rita Corey
Observation Date: 8/13/20
Observation Time: 1:50 p.m.
Observation Location: Rattlesnake Hill
Common Name: Halberd-leaved Tearthumb
Scientific Name: Persicaria arifolia
Comments: Halberd-leaved tearthumb has distinctly arrow-shaped leaves with outward-pointing projections at the base. The stem is covered with small downward-curving barbs that gives this small annual wetland vine its common name. A halberd is a medieval battleaxe.
More Information: Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/12/11
Observation Time: 6:55 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Hay-scented Fern
Scientific Name: Dennstaedtia punctilobula
Comments: Hay-scented fern is very common in Sharon. It is often found growing in large colonies, forming a green carpet on the forest floor. It can be identified by its lacy, light-green fronds. It can be confused with New York fern, but hay-scented fern has triangular fronds, whereas New York fern fronds taper to tiny leaflets at the bottom.
More Information: Connecticut Botanical Society
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/23/18
Observation Time: 6:55 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary (Billings loop)
Common Name: Hay-scented Fern
Scientific Name: Dennstaedtia punctilobula
Comments: Hay-scented fern is very common in Sharon. It is often found growing in large colonies, forming a green carpet on the forest floor. It can be identified by its lacy, light-green fronds. It can be confused with New York fern, but hay-scented fern has triangular fronds, whereas New York fern fronds taper to tiny leaflets at the bottom.
More Information: Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 8/13/20
Observation Time: 2:25 p.m.
Observation Location: Gavins Pond Rd.
Common Name: Heller’s Rosette Grass
Scientific Name: Dichanthelium oligosanthes
Comments: I identified this peculiar clump of grass using a cool app called Seek. It sprang up in a cleared and mulched area where there was no competition from other grass.
More Information: Friends of the Wildflower Garden
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/30/10
Observation Time: 4:30 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Highbush blueberry
Scientific Name: Vaccinium corymbosum
Comments: The northern highbush blueberry, is a North American species of blueberry which has become a food crop of significant economic importance. It is native to eastern Canada and the eastern and southern United States, from Ontario east to Nova Scotia and south as far as Florida and eastern Texas.
More Information: Highbush Blueberry
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 9/26/12
Observation Time: 2:05 p.m.
Observation Location: Near the train station tennis courts by Beaver Brook
Common Name: Honey Mushroom
Scientific Name: Armillaria mellea
Comments: Honey mushrooms are a plant pathogen and cause Armillaria root rot in many plant species. They appear around the base of trees they have infected. The symptoms of infection appear in the crowns of infected trees as discolored foliage, reduced growth, dieback of the branches and death. The mushrooms are edible but some people may be intolerant to them. This species is capable of producing light via bioluminescence in its mycelium.
Armillaria mellea is widely distributed in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. The fruit body or mushroom, commonly known as stump mushroom, stumpie, honey mushroom, pipinky or pinky, grows typically on hardwoods but may be found around and on other living and dead wood or in open areas.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/22/18
Observation Time: 10:55 a.m.
Observation Location: Town-owned conservation land near Sandy Ridge Circle
Common Name: Honeysuckle
Scientific Name: Lonicera spp.
Comments: Bush honeysuckles are invasive deciduous shrubs that grow up to 20 feet tall. There are three species of bush honeysuckle common in the region including tartarian (Lonicera tatarica), Morrow’s (Lonicera morrowii), and Amur (Lonicera maackii). All species are similar in appearance, with simple, opposite, oval-shaped leaves. Honeysuckles bloom in May and June, producing fragrant white or pink flowers. Berries are round, fleshy and red. The center of twigs on invasive bush honeysuckles are hollow, a trait that distinguishes the invasive species from their native look-alikes.
More Information: Adirondack Park Invasive Plants
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/16/23
Observation Time: 4:05 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon WIldlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Indian Cucumber Root
Scientific Name: Medeola virginiana
Comments: Indian cucumber-root is a common perennial of the forest understory in New England. As the name suggests, the edible root tastes somewhat like cucumber.
More Information: Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/30/20
Observation Time: 4:45 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)
Common Name: Indian Cucumber Root
Scientific Name: Medeola virginiana
Comments: Indian cucumber-root is a common perennial of the forest understory in New England. As the name suggests, the edible root tastes somewhat like cucumber.
More Information: Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/14/09
Observation Time: 7:30 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm, Trustees of Reservations land
Common Name: Indian Pipe
Scientific Name: Monotropa uniflora
Comments: Indian pipe, also known as ghost plant (or ghost pipe) or corpse plant, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to temperate regions of European Russia, Asia, North America and northern South America, but with large gaps between areas. It is generally rare in occurrence.
Unlike most plants, it is white and does not contain chlorophyll. Instead of generating energy from sunlight, it is parasitic, more specifically a myco-heterotroph. Its hosts are certain fungi that are mycorrhizal with trees, meaning it ultimately gets its energy from photosynthetic trees. Since it is not dependent on sunlight to grow, it can grow in very dark environments as in the understory of dense forest. It is often associated with beech trees. The complex relationship that allows this plant to grow also makes propagation difficult.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/23/19
Observation Time: 10:45 a.m.
Observation Location: Billings Loop Botanical Trail
Common Name: Indian Pipe
Scientific Name: Monotropa uniflora
Comments: Indian pipe, also known as ghost plant (or ghost pipe) or corpse plant, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to temperate regions of European Russia, Asia, North America and northern South America, but with large gaps between areas. It is generally rare in occurrence.
Unlike most plants, it is white and does not contain chlorophyll. Instead of generating energy from sunlight, it is parasitic, more specifically a myco-heterotroph. Its hosts are certain fungi that are mycorrhizal with trees, meaning it ultimately gets its energy from photosynthetic trees. Since it is not dependent on sunlight to grow, it can grow in very dark environments as in the understory of dense forest. It is often associated with beech trees. The complex relationship that allows this plant to grow also makes propagation difficult.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/26/10
Observation Time: 3:20 p.m.
Observation Location: headwaters of Beaver Brook
Common Name: Indian Pipe
Scientific Name: Monotropa uniflora
Comments: Indian pipe, also known as ghost plant (or ghost pipe) or corpse plant, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to temperate regions of European Russia, Asia, North America and northern South America, but with large gaps between areas. It is generally rare in occurrence.
Unlike most plants, it is white and does not contain chlorophyll. Instead of generating energy from sunlight, it is parasitic, more specifically a myco-heterotroph. Its hosts are certain fungi that are mycorrhizal with trees, meaning it ultimately gets its energy from photosynthetic trees. Since it is not dependent on sunlight to grow, it can grow in very dark environments as in the understory of dense forest. It is often associated with beech trees. The complex relationship that allows this plant to grow also makes propagation difficult.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 9/4/20
Observation Time: 1:20 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm
Common Name: Indian Pipe
Scientific Name: Monotropa uniflora
Comments: Indian pipe, also known as ghost plant (or ghost pipe) or corpse plant, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to temperate regions of European Russia, Asia, North America and northern South America, but with large gaps between areas. It is generally rare in occurrence.
Unlike most plants, it is white and does not contain chlorophyll. Instead of generating energy from sunlight, it is parasitic, more specifically a myco-heterotroph. Its hosts are certain fungi that are mycorrhizal with trees, meaning it ultimately gets its energy from photosynthetic trees. Since it is not dependent on sunlight to grow, it can grow in very dark environments as in the understory of dense forest. It is often associated with beech trees. The complex relationship that allows this plant to grow also makes propagation difficult.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 9/4/20
Observation Time: 1:25 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)
Common Name: Interrupted fern
Scientific Name: Osmunda claytonia
Comments: The species name (claytoniana) is a tribute to John Clayton, an 18th century botanist and one of the earliest collectors of plant specimens in what later became the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The common name (Interrupted Fern) is a reference to the fact that the blade of fertile fronds is interrupted by several fertile leaflets in the midsection. Early sources refer to this fern as Clayton’s Fern.
More Information: Ferns of the Adirondacks
Interrupted fern (left) and hay-scented fern (right):
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/30/10
Observation Time: 4:10 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Iris (harlequin blueflag)
Scientific Name: Iris versicolor
Comments: The species has been implicated in several poisoning cases of humans and animals who consumed the rhizomes, which have been found to contain a glycoside, iridin. The sap can cause dermatitis in susceptible individuals.
More Information: The Flower Expert
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/13/23
Observation Time: 11:20 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Jack-in-the-pulpit
Scientific Name: Arisaema triphyllum
Comments: Jack-in-the-pulpits grow in largely deciduous forests with plenty of shade. They prefer rich, moist soil and can often be found near wetlands and vernal pools.
In the late summer, after the plant’s flower has been pollinated, it produces a large clump of bright red berries. Each berry contains several seeds, which are spread by birds and other small animals after ingestion.
The plant’s leaves, berries, and corms contain calcium oxalate, which is a chemical compound that takes the form of tiny crystalline structures. Getting this on your bare skin can cause irritation, and ingesting the plant raw can be dangerous, sometimes resulting in choking or blisters. It is therefore recommended to avoid touching any part of the plant unless you’re wearing gloves and other skin protection.
Please do not dig up wildflowers. Leave them for others to enjoy.
More Information: Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 10/7/10
Observation Time: 3:15 p.m.
Observation Location: end of Lee Road
Common Name: Japanese Barberry
Scientific Name: Berberis thunbergii
Comments: This specimen was a few yards beyond the end of Lee Road near the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp drainage ditch. Japanese barberry is often planted for hedges, and easily spreads to natural areas, as this specimen evidently did.
“In recent years the plant has been recognized as an invasive species in parts of the eastern United States; it is avoided by deer and has been replacing native species. Further, the plant raises the pH of the soil and affects its nitrogen levels. In Canada its cultivation is prohibited as the species can act as a host for Puccinia graminis (black rust), a rust disease of wheat. Currently there are breeding and selection programs aimed at producing cultivars that are either sterile or produce relatively little seed.” Wikipedia
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 9/22/13
Observation Time: 3:15 p.m.
Observation Location: Gavins Pond Road near soccer fields
Common Name: Jerusalem Artichoke
Scientific Name: Helianthus tuberosus
Comments: Before the arrival of Europeans, Native Americans cultivated H. tuberosus as a food source. The tubers persist for years after being planted, so that the species expanded its range from central North America to the eastern and western regions. Early European colonists learned of this, and sent tubers back to Europe, where it became a popular crop and naturalized there. It later gradually fell into obscurity in North America, but attempts to market it commercially have been successful in the late 1900s and early 2000s.
The tuber contains about 2% protein, no oil, and little starch. It is rich in the carbohydrate inulin (8 to 13%), which is a polmer of the monosaccharide fructose. Tubers stored for any length of time convert their inulin into its component fructose. Jerusalem artichokes have an underlying sweet taste because of the fructose, which is about one and a half times as sweet as sucrose.
It has also been reported as a folk remedy for diabetes : since inulin is not assimilated in the intestine, it doesn’t cause a glycemic spike as potatoes would. Temperature variances have been shown to affect the amount of inulin the Jerusalem artichoke can produce. It makes less inulin in a colder region than when it is in a warmer region.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 7/24/10
Observation Time: 7:50 a.m.
Observation Location: near Gavins Pond outflow pool
Common Name: Jewelweed
Scientific Name: Impatiens capensis
Comments: Jewelweed, which often grows in disturbed areas near poison ivy, is also an antidote for poison ivy.
More Information: Altnature.com
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/13/20
Observation Time: 5:20 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Joe Pye Weed
Scientific Name: Eupatorium purpureum
Comments: Joe Pye Weed is an herbaceous, late-blooming perennial native to much of the U.S. It is a wildflower and an herb that was used as an herbal remedy to lower fevers and other maladies. The plant is named after a Native American herbalist. The lance-shaped leaves grow in whorls around the otherwise green stem which is purple where the leaves attach.
Butterflies feed on the flowers of Joe Pye weed when they bloom in late summer.
More Information: thespruce.com
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 8/15/18
Observation Time: 1:10 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Joe Pye Weed
Scientific Name: Eupatorium purpureum
Comments: Joe Pye weed is an herbaceous, late-blooming perennial native to much of the U.S. It is a wildflower and an herb that was used as an herbal remedy to lower fevers and other maladies. The plant goes by the common name Joe Pye weed, named after a Native American herbalist. The lance-shaped leaves grow in whorls around the otherwise green stem which is purple where the leaves attach.
More Information: thespruce.com
Spicebush swallowtail butterflies and monarch butterflies were feeding on Joe Pye weed blossoms that day:
