Sightings – Plants
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: 6/21/25
Observation Time: 4:25 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
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:
Observer: Marshall Katler
Observation Date: 9/14/23
Observation Time: 8:30 a.m.
Observation Location: old field at King Phillip’s Rock area
Common Name: Ladies’ Tresses
Scientific Name: Spiranthes cernua
Comments: Typically found in fields, damp meadows, moist thickets, and grassy swamps, Ladies’ Tresses bloom in late summer and fall.
Please do not dig up wildflowers.
More Information: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 9/22/13
Observation Time: 2:10 p.m.
Observation Location: King Phillip’s Rock area
Common Name: Ladies’ Tresses Orchid
Scientific Name: Spiranthes cernua
Comments: These wild white orchids grow on a spiral stalk (hence the name Spiranthes).
More Information: Go Orchids or Nature Northeast
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/18/20
Observation Time: 10:50 a.m.
Observation Location: under high tension lines across the street from the Gavins Pond soccer fields
Common Name: Lance-leaved Violet
Scientific Name: Viola lanceolata
Comments: One of only a few white-flowered stemless violets, lance-leaved violet inhabits sandy or peaty shorelines and marshes as well as more disturbed sites. The narrow lance-shaped leaves are distinctive.
More Information: Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/15/13
Observation Time: 6:20 p.m.
Observation Location: Gavins Pond area
Common Name: Lanceleaf Tickseed
Scientific Name: Coreopsis lanceolata
More Information: Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 7/12/20
Observation Time: 6:55 p.m.
Observation Location: along Gavins Pond Road
Common Name: Lanceleaf Tickseed
Scientific Name: Coreopsis lanceolata
Comments: This native perennial wildflower thrives in poor, sandy or rocky soils with good drainage. It is tolerant of heat, humidity and drought.
Lanceleaf tickseed features solitary, yellow, daisy-like flowers (1-2″ diameter) with eight yellow rays (toothed at the tips) and flat yellow center disks. Flowers bloom atop slender, erect stems from spring to early summer. Narrow, hairy, lance-shaped leaves (2-6″ long) appear primarily near the base of the plant.
More Information: Native Florida Wildflowers and Missouri Botanical Gardens
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 9/4/20
Observation Time: 2:30 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)
Common Name: Late Purple Aster
Scientific Name: Symphyotrichum patens
Comments: Late purple aster looks similar to smooth aster — they both have purple rays and clasping leaves. Distinguish them by their stems — late purple aster has a rough, hairy stem; smooth aster has a smooth stem with a whitish coating.
More Information: Connecticut Botanical Society
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 4/28/24
Observation Time: 11:00 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (The Trustees of Reservations)
Common Name: Lesser Periwinkle
Scientific Name: Vinca minor
Comments: Also known as dwarf periwinkle and creeping myrtle, 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: 5/9/23
Observation Time: 8:25 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Lily of the Valley
Scientific Name: Convallaria majalis
Comments: Lily of the Valley is highly poisonous if consumed by humans or other animals. Please do not dig up any wildflowers you may find in Sharon. Please leave them for everyone to enjoy!
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 10/17/10
Observation Time: 10:00 a.m.
Observation Location: 4 Gavins Pond Road
Common Name: Lingzhi mushroom
Scientific Name: Ganoderma tsugae
Comments: This mushroom specimen was growing in the tamarack (larch) grove in my back yard. It is probably growing on a root, as it was growing on the ground right next to a big tamarack tree. Since tamaracks are coniferous, this specimen is presumably Ganoderma tsugae, rather than Ganoderma lucidum, which grows on deciduous trees.
Apparently, these mushrooms are valued for their medicinal properties.
More Information: Cornell Mushroom Blog
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 8/3/10
Observation Time: 9:45 a.m.
Observation Location: Gavins Pond
Common Name: Little Floatingheart
Scientific Name: Nymphoides cordata
Comments: The little floatinghearts are the smaller, darker, heart-shaped floating pads visible in the photo among the bigger, greener rounder water lilies. The small, five-petalled white flowers are those of little floatingheart. Water lilies have much bigger floating blossoms (see photo taken September 12, 2009).
More Information: USDA
Observer: Constance Keegan
Observation Date: 10/1/10
Observation Time: Daytime
Observation Location: By a large oak tree in my yard on Moosehill Pkwy
Common Name: Maitake mushroom
Scientific Name: Grifola frondosa
Comments: Also called “hen of the woods,” G. frondosa should not be confused with Laetiporus sulphureus, another edible bracket fungus that is commonly called “chicken of the woods.” Like all polypores, the fungus becomes inedible when older, because it is then too tough to eat.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/4/11
Observation Time: 3:00 p.m.
Observation Location: conservation land near Billings Street
Common Name: Maple-leaf Viburnum
Scientific Name: Viburnum acerifolium
Comments: Maple-leaf viburnum has long been cultivated for its attractive summer flowers and foliage; then the autumn leaves turn rose-purple and contrast with the mature dark fruits. The plants will thrive in moist soils and a range of light conditions but they are a good choice for dry soils in deep shade. They can be used along forest edges, streamsides, and lakeshores.
More Information: USDA Plant Guide
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/9/20
Observation Time: 4:30 p.m.
Observation Location: shady woods near Gavins Pond
Common Name: Maple-leaf Viburnum
Scientific Name: Viburnum acerifolium
Comments: Maple-leaf viburnum has long been cultivated for its attractive summer flowers and foliage; then the autumn leaves turn rose-purple and contrast with the mature dark fruits. The plants will thrive in moist soils and a range of light conditions but they are a good choice for dry soils in deep shade. They can be used along forest edges, streamsides, and lakeshores.
More Information: USDA Plant Guide
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/16/23
Observation Time: 3:30 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary (boardwalk)
Common Name: Marsh Blue Violet
Scientific Name: Viola cucullata
Comments: The violets of North America come in two general forms, the stemmed violets and the stemless violets. Stemmed violets produce leaves and flowers on upright stems. Stemless violets produce leaves and flowers from and underground vertical or horizontal stem. Marsh blue violet is a stemless violet. It is easily differentiated from other eastern stemless blue violets by the length of its peduncle (the flower stalk). It is generally taller (up to 25 cm or 10 in) than any of the leaves on the plant.
More Information: U.S. Forest Service
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/7/25
Observation Time: 9:00 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary (boardwalk)
Common Name: Marsh Blue Violet
Scientific Name: Viola cucullata
Comments: The violets of North America come in two general forms, the stemmed violets and the stemless violets. Stemmed violets produce leaves and flowers on upright stems. Stemless violets produce leaves and flowers from an underground vertical or horizontal stem. Marsh blue violet is a stemless violet. It is easily differentiated from other eastern stemless blue violets by the length of its peduncle (the flower stalk). It is generally taller (up to 25 cm or 10 in) than any of the leaves on the plant.
More Information: U.S. Forest Service
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/16/23
Observation Time: 7:15 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary (boardwalk)
Common Name: Marsh Fern
Scientific Name: Thelypteris pelustris
Comments: This diminutive fern is typically found in wetlands.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Susan Drisko
Observation Date: 4/27/2022
Observation Time: 1:45 p.m.
Observation Location: headwaters of Beaver Brook
Common Name: Marsh Marigold
Scientific Name: Caltha palustris
Comments: Caltha palustris, known as marsh-marigold and kingcup, is a small to medium size perennialherbaceousplant of the buttercup family, native to marshes, fens, ditches and wet woodlands in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It typically flowers between April and August.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: David Dearborn
Observation Date: 5/7/24
Observation Time: 3:20 p.m.
Observation Location: Mountain Street
Common Name: May Apple
Scientific Name: Podophyllum peltatum
Comments: This big patch of May Apples has a mutually beneficial relationship with box turtles, which eat the fruit and spread the seeds.
More Information: Butler Soil and Water Conservation District
Box turtle beside the house that can be seen in the photo above:
Observer: Peter Higgins
Observation Date: 10/17/08
Observation Time: 5:00 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (Trustees of Reservations)
Common Name: Milkweed
Scientific Name: Asclepias syriaca
Comments: Milkweed is an important food source for butterflies, moths and other insect species. It has been decimated by the application of glyphosate herbicide (a.k.a. Roundup) on vast fields of corn and soybeans that have been genetically modified to tolerate glypohosate.
More Information: Scientific American
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 7/22/15
Observation Time: 5:20 p.m.
Observation Location: Gavins Pond area
Common Name: Milkweed
Scientific Name: Asclepias syriaca
Comments: Monarch butterflies depend on milkweed as a food source for their caterpillars. The advent of genetically modified “Roundup-ready” corn and soybeans has facilitated large-scale application of herbicides, reducing the availability of milkweed to migrating monarchs. Hence, the monarch population is in steep decline. Homeowners wanting to help monarchs can inadvertently hurt them by planting the wrong kind of milkweed (Ophryocystis elektroscirrha). Unfortunately, native milkweed that monarchs need is harder to propagate.
More Information: Science
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/27/15
Observation Time: 2:45 p.m.
Observation Location: Gavins Pond area
Common Name: Milkweed flower
Scientific Name: Asclepias syriaca
Comments: Many species of butterflies including monarchs depend on milkweed as a food source for their caterpillars. The advent of genetically modified “Roundup-ready” corn and soybeans has facilitated large-scale application of herbicides, reducing the availability of milkweed to migrating monarchs. Hence, the monarch population is in steep decline. Homeowners wanting to help monarchs can inadvertently hurt them by planting the wrong kind of milkweed (Ophryocystis elektroscirrha). Unfortunately, native milkweed that monarchs need is harder to propagate.
More Information: Science
Observer: Rita Corey
Observation Date: 6/23/19
Observation Time: 3:45 p.m.
Observation Location: 282 Mountain Street
Common Name: Mock Orange
Scientific Name: Philadelphus coronarius
Comments: Mock orange shrubs have flowers that are rich with nectar and attract butterflies. They are native to Southeast Europe and Italy.
More Information: the spruce
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/9/19
Observation time: 4:15 p.m.
Observation Location: beginning of the trail at the end of Brook Road
Common Name: Money Flower (a.k.a. Honesty)
Scientific Name: Lunaria annua
Comments: The seed pods of the money flower are shaped like coins. This flower originated from the Balkans and southwest Asia. Its popularity as a garden flower means that colonies are most often seen near to towns and villages. It thrives in partial shade on woodland edges.
More information: First Nature
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/30/20
Observation Time: 2:00 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)
Common Name: Mouse-ear chickweed
Scientific Name: Cerastium fontanum
Comments: Mouse-ear chickweed is a herb. Herbs are broad-leaved, herbaceous (non-woody) plants. Herbaceous plants are also known as forbs or wildflowers.
More Information: Kansas Native Plants
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/7/24
Observation Time: 11:00 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Mouse-ear chickweed
Scientific Name: Cerastium fontanum
Comments: Mouse-ear chickweed is a herb. Herbs are broad-leaved, herbaceous (non-woody) plants. Herbaceous plants are also known as forbs or wildflowers.
More Information: Kansas Native Plants
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/29/24
Observation Time: 10:40 a.m.
Observation Location: High Street, Sharon
Common Name: Mulberry tree
Scientific Name: Morus (family)
Comments: Mulberry is a tree belonging to the Moraceae family (also including the fig, jackfruit, and other fruits). Generally, the genus has 64 subordinate taxa, three of which are well-known and are ostensibly named for the fruit color of the best-known cultivar: white, red, and black mulberry (Morus alba, M. rubra, and M. nigra, respectively). M. alba is native to South Asia, but is widely distributed across Europe, Southern Africa, South America, and North America. M. alba is also the species most preferred by the silkworm, and is regarded as an invasive species in Brazil and the United States.
The taxonomy of Morus is complex and disputed. Fossils of Morus appear in the Pliocene record of the Netherlands Over 150 species names have been published, and although differing sources may cite different selections of accepted names, less than 20 are accepted by the vast majority of botanical authorities. Morus classification is even further complicated by widespread hybridisation.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Deborah Radovsky
Observation Date: 6/7/20
Observation Time: 8:45 a.m.
Observation Location: Quincy St.
Common Name: Multiflora rose
Scientific Name: Rosa multiflora
Comments: Multiflora rose is a deciduous shrub with white flowers and red fruit. Brought here from Asia, it was planted as wildlife food, and also as a living fence, due to its dense growth and sharp thorns. It can grow to 10 feet high or more, and is typically wider than it is tall.
It forms dense thickets in fields and field edges, crowding out other species. It also grows in open wetlands and in forests where canopy openings occur.
More Information: Massachusetts Audubon
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 4/13/23
Observation Time: 9:00 a.m.
Observation Location: Sharon
Common Name: Narrow-leaved Spring Beauty
Scientific Name: Claytonia virginica
Comments: Its scientific name honors Colonial Virginia botanist John Clayton (1694–1773).
Spring Beauty is an endangered species in Massachusetts. Please do not dig up any wildflowers you may find in Sharon. Please leave them for everyone to enjoy!
More Information: Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 4/23/24
Observation Time: 8:30 a.m.
Observation Location: Sharon
Common Name: Narrow-leaved Spring Beauty
Scientific Name: Claytonia virginica
Comments: Its scientific name honors Colonial Virginia botanist John Clayton (1694–1773).
Spring Beauty is an endangered species in Massachusetts. Please do not dig up any wildflowers you may find in Sharon. Please leave them for everyone to enjoy!
More Information: Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program
4/22/24:
4/23/24:
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 4/23/25
Observation Time: 9:30 a.m.
Observation Location: Sharon
Common Name: Narrow-leaved Spring Beauty
Scientific Name: Claytonia virginica
Comments: Its scientific name honors Colonial Virginia botanist John Clayton (1694–1773).
Spring Beauty is an endangered species in Massachusetts. Please do not dig up any wildflowers you may find in Sharon. Wildflowers are adapted to the spot where they are growing, and often do not survive transplantation. Please leave wildflowers alone so everyone can enjoy them!
More Information: Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/14/14
Observation Time: 10:50 a.m.
Observation Location: Sharon
Common Name: Narrow-leaved spring beauty
Scientific Name: Claytonia virginica L.
Comments: This rare wildflower is only found in nine towns in Massachusetts. Please do not dig up wildflowers!
More Information: Mass. Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/7/19
Observation Time: 7:00 a.m.
Observation Location: Sharon
Common Name: Narrow-leaved Spring Beauty
Scientific Name: Claytonia virginica
Comments: Its scientific name honors Colonial Virginia botanist John Clayton (1694–1773). Please do not dig up any wildflowers you may find in Sharon. Leave them for everyone to enjoy!
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/9/23
Observation Time: 8:15 a.m.
Observation Location: Sharon
Common Name: Narrow-leaved Spring Beauty
Scientific Name: Claytonia virginica
Comments: Its scientific name honors Colonial Virginia botanist John Clayton (1694–1773).
Spring Beauty is an endangered species in Massachusetts. Please do not dig up any wildflowers you may find in Sharon. Please leave them for everyone to enjoy!
More Information: Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 8/18/20
Observation Time: 11:35 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (formerly the Kendall Estate)
Common Name: New York Ironweed
Scientific Name: Vernonia noveboracensis
Comments: New York ironweed is a tall, perennial wildflower that produces small purple blossoms in August and September. This specimen is approximately 8 feet tall.
More Information: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/29/24
Observation Time: 12:20 p.m.
Observation Location: High Street, Sharon
Common Name: Norway Maple tree
Scientific Name: Acer Platanoides
Comments: The Norway maple is native to eastern and central Europe and western Asia, from France east to Russia, north to southern Scandinavia and southeast to northern Iran. It was brought to North America in the mid-1700s as a shade tree. It is quite common in Sharon, and puts on a beautiful display in fall when its leaves turn yellow.
Like sugar maples, Norway maples can be tapped in late winter. Boiling down the sap produces a sweet, delicious maple syrup. It takes about 30 quarts of sap to produce one quart of syrup.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/9/20
Observation Time: 2:40 p.m.
Observation Location: Gavins Pond dam
Common Name: Norway Maple Tree
Scientific Name: Acer Platanoides
Comments: The Norway maple is native to eastern and central Europe and western Asia, from France east to Russia, north to southern Scandinavia and southeast to northern Iran. It was brought to North America in the mid-1700s as a shade tree. It is quite common in Sharon, and puts on a beautiful display in fall when its leaves turn yellow.
Like sugar maples, Norway maples can be tapped in late winter. Boiling down the sap produces a sweet, delicious syrup. It takes about 30 quarts of sap to produce one quart of syrup.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 4/16/20
Observation Time: 1:45 p.m.
Observation Location: conservation land at Lakeview & Morse
Common Name: Old Man’s Beard lichen
Scientific Name: Usnea strigosa
Comments: Also called bushy beard, this epiphytic (i.e. growing on trees) lichen is a composite organism that emerges from algae or cyanobacteria living among the filaments of the fungi in a symbiotic (mutually beneficial) relationship. The fungi benefit from the carbohydrates produced by the algae or cyanobacteria via photosynthesis. The algae or cyanobacteria benefit by being protected from the environment by the filaments of the fungi, which also gather moisture and nutrients from the environment, and (usually) provide an anchor to it.
More Information: Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources
My friend Tom Palmer of Milton helped me identify this lichen, and provided this photo of some he found on the ground at Moose Hill Farm in Sharon on 5/4/18.
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/28/23
Observation Time: 9:35 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)
Common Name: Orchard Grass
Scientific Name: Dactylis glomerata
Comments: Native to Europe, orchard grass has been introduced nearly worldwide. It came to North America in the 1700s, and is frequently planted as a forage grass.
More Information: Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 7/12/20
Observation Time: 6:45 p.m.
Observation Location: along Gavins Pond Road
Common Name: Oriental Bittersweet
Scientific Name: Celastrus orbiculatus
Comments: This non-native invasive species comes from Asia. It grows as a vine that smothers plants and can topple trees due to its weight.
It was introduced into the United States around 1860 as an ornamental plant. In fall, it produces attractive red and orange berry-like fruit. The stems are cut and used for decoration, which unfortunately facilitates its spread.
Here’s a short video explaining how to get rid of Oriental Bittersweet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRplW9_UhKg
More Information: USDA and Wikipedia
Observer: Lonnie Friedman
Observation Date: 5/30/20
Observation Time: 5:00 pm
Observation Location: near Gavins Pond
Common Name: Oyster Mushroom
Scientific Name: Pleurotus ostreatus
Comments: This oyster mushroom was growing on a log. I believe it to be edible, but I did not dare test that hypothesis!
More Information: Wikipedia
Here’s the first photo taken 5/30/20:
To confirm the identification, I returned the following afternoon and took these photos to show the “gills” on the underside of the mushrooms:
Top view, photographed on 5/31/20 at around 1:15 pm:
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/14/20
Observation Time: 5:20 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)
Common Name: Palmate Hop Clover
Scientific Name: Trifolium aureum
Comments: Palmate hop clover is an exotic species that is widespread in New England. The common name derives from the fact that as the flower heads age, the florets fold down and become brown, resembling dried hops.
More Information: Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/25/15
Observation Time: 2:25 p.m.
Observation Location: Town-owned conservation land at Morse and Lakeview Streets
Common Name: Palmate Hop Clover
Scientific Name: Trifolium aureum
Comments: Palmate hop clover is an exotic species that is widespread in New England. The common name derives from the fact that as the flower heads age, the florets fold down and become brown, resembling dried hops.
More Information: Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/15/13
Observation Time: 2:30 p.m.
Observation Location: Conservation land beyond Sandy Ridge Circle
Common Name: Panic Grass
Scientific Name: Dichanthelium sp.
Comments: There are numerous kinds of panic grasses. This one was growing in a wooded area along the trail that parallels Beaver Brook, beginning at the Sandy Ridge Circle cul-de-sac.
More Information: Cape May Plants
Observer: Josh Simons
Observation Date: 9/9/20
Observation Time: 11:00 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill area
Common Name: Parasol mushroom
Scientific Name: Macrolepiota procera
Comments: iNaturalist says this is a parasol mushroom. I thought they had rounded caps, but I do see some flat tops when googling. This was large – maybe 5″ to 6″ in diameter. Very pretty.
More Information: Mushroom-Collecting.com
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/26/10
Observation Time: 5:15 p.m.
Observation Location: Beaver Brook headwaters area
Common Name: Partridgeberry
Scientific Name: Mitchella repens
Comments: Called “noon kie oo nah yeah” in the Mohawk language.
More Information: US Forest Service
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/24/10
Observation Time: 8:25 a.m.
Observation Location: 4 Gavins Pond Rd.
Common Name: Peony
Scientific Name: Paeonia spp.
Comments: Long ago, some observant gardener noticed that ants on peony buds always meant the flowers would open soon. And so a bit of folk wisdom was born: Peonies cannot open until ants eat away the seal that keeps the buds closed. But it isn’t true. The thing the ants are eating is nectar, not glue, and what this does for the peony is make sure there are plenty of ants around to eat any soft-bodied insects that might like to eat peonies.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/19/19
Observation Time: 3:45 p.m.
Observation Location: Billings Loop Botanical Trail
Common Name: Pignut Hickory Tree
Scientific Name: Carya glabya
Comments: This tree is one of many plants identified along a botanical trail established by Kurt Buermann, President of the Sharon Friends of Conservation.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 9/9/12
Observation Time: 2:50 p.m.
Observation Location: Sandy Ridge Circle
Common Name: Pigskin Poison Puffball
Scientific Name: Scleroderma citrinum
Comments: Also known as “common earthball,” this yellow-white spherical fungus has no stem. It eventually bursts open to release spores.
More Information: Common Earthball
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/11/20
Observation Time: 9:40 a.m.
Observation Location: near Gavins Pond
Common Name: Pink earth lichen
Scientific Name: Dibaeis baeomyces
Comments: This lichen is found throughout eastern North America, from Alabama and Georgia in the south to the Arctic Circle in the north. While rare there, it does occur in both Alaska and the Northwest Territories. It prefers to grow directly on unstable soils such as loose sand or dry clay, and in full sun. It also prefers acid soils to neutral or alkaline. On disturbed ground, a preferred habitat type, it is able to spread quickly for a lichen.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/6/24
Observation Time: 8:00 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Pink Earth lichen
Scientific Name: Dibaeis baeomyces
Comments: It’s been a rainy spring, which might stimulate these colorful lichens.
More Information: Naturally curious with Mary Holland
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 9/12/09
Observation Time: 11:00 a.m.
Observation Location: near Gavins Pond
Common Name: Pink Earth lichen
Scientific Name: Dibaeis baeomyces
More Information: Naturally Curious with Mary Holland
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/27/20
Observation Time: 5:10 p.m.
Observation Location: in the woods near the footbridge over Beaver Brook
Common Name: Pink Lady’s Slipper orchid
Scientific Name: Cypripedium acaule
Comments: Pink lady’s slippers probably won’t survive if you try to transplant them, so please don’t dig them up.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/22/18
Observation Time: 9:30 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Pink Lady’s Slipper orchid
Scientific Name: Cypripedium acaule
Comments: Pink lady’s slippers probably won’t survive if you try to transplant them, so please don’t dig them up.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/27/14
Observation Time: 9:05 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Pink Lady’s Slipper orchid
Scientific Name: Cypripedium acaule
Comments: Pink lady’s slippers won’t survive if you try to transplant them, so please don’t dig them up.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Josh Simons
Observation Date: 5/31/20
Observation Time: 10:30 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill area
Common Name: Pink Lady’s Slipper orchid
Scientific Name: Cypripedium acaule
Comments: Pink lady’s slippers probably won’t survive if you try to transplant them, so please don’t dig them up.
More Information: Wikipedia
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/13/20
Observation Time: 5:55 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Platterful Mushroom
Scientific Name: Megacollybia rodmani
Comments: Platterful mushrooms appear after May and June rains. It had rained heavily two days earlier. This one was growing on a rotting log beside the trail.
More Information: Mushroomexpert.com
Top view:
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/23/18
Observation Time: 9:35 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Farm (TTOR)
Common Name: Poison Ivy
Scientific Name: Toxicodendron radicans
Comments: Everyone should learn to identify poison ivy and avoid contact with its glossy, notched leaves. As both its common name and its scientific name suggest, the triplicate leaves of this plant can cause an intensely itchy rash that lasts for weeks. Jewelweed, which often grows near poison ivy, is also an antidote for poison ivy.
Poison ivy is often seen in disturbed areas along roads and paths, but it can also climb up trees as a thick vine. When ripe, the white fruits are a favorite food of many migrant and game birds, as well as white-tailed deer. The seeds are adapted for sprouting after digestion softens the seed coat.
More Information: Go Botany
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 5/25/23
Observation Time: 6:45 a.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary (wetland boardwalk)
Common Name: Poison Sumac
Scientific Name: Toxicodendron vernix
Comments: Everyone should learn to identify poison sumac and avoid contact with it. As both its common name and its scientific name suggest, the leaves of this plant can cause an itchy rash.
Poison sumac is often found in marshy areas.
More Information: Healthline
Observer: Josh Simons
Observation Date: 10/2/24
Observation Time: 11:00 a.m.
Observation Location: Rattlesnake Hill trail
Common Name: Primrose-leaf Violet
Scientific Name: Viola primulifolia
Comments: When the plant’s seed capsule is fully ripe, it splits into three parts and ejects the seed with explosive force.
More information: Picture This
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/24/10
Observation Time: 3:40 p.m.
Observation Location: Beaver Brook near tennis courts
Common Name: Princess pine
Scientific Name: Dendrolycopodium obscurum
Comments: Despite its name and pine-like appearance, princess pine is not related to pine trees. It’s actually a type of clubmoss, an ancient group of plants that had its heyday long before there were pines, dinosaurs, or flowering plants. Also known as “ground cedar,” it is also called “fan clubmoss” because of its fan-like branches. It grows from a creeping stem at the soil surface.
More Information: Westborough Land Trust
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 9/20/15
Observation Time: 4:20 p.m.
Observation Location: Lake Massapoag (near boat ramp)
Common Name: Puffball mushroom
Scientific Name: Genus: Calvatia, Bovista and others
Comments: There are many kinds of puffballs. Some are edible and some are poisonous.
More Information: eattheplanet.org
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/13/20
Observation Time: 5:15 p.m.
Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Name: Purple Foxglove
Scientific Name: Digitalis purpurea
Comments: Purple foxglove, Digitalis purpurea, is a biennial or short-lived herbaceous perennial from western Europe in the plantain family. It is sometimes called common foxglove, fairy gloves, fairy bells, or lady’s glove. Purple foxglove is naturally quite variable in size and flower color.
As its scientific name suggests, foxglove was the source of chemicals in the drug digitalis.
More Information: University of Wisconsin
