Walking through the prairie remnant this week continues to revel the true beauty that is concealed within and continues to offer a wonderful view into Iowa’s former landscape. We are going on a month of continuous bloom in this natural, nature-made “garden.” The grasses and forbs (flowers) are just under knee-high now, giving it a summer feel. By the end of the summer, the grasses and flowers will be over most people’s height. You can find this public prairie remnant on the great western trail in Cumming.

By now, garden enthusiasts should be starting to notice that most of our favorite garden flowers are actually native prairie flowers! Spiderwort is a very popular hardy perennial plant used in landscapes. It is starting to bloom this week and is quite noticeable as it is a striking light blue color. I have taken note that there are two different colors on different parts of the prairie remnant – light and dark blue. You can find these in all parts of the prairie. I have even seen plenty of these blooming in other parts of the trail as well.

Canadian anemone, another popular landscape plant, is in full bloom this week. It is really adding lots of flowers to the prairie. These are blooming in two huge drifts that carpet the middle of the prairie on top of the ridges. There are many others blooming in other parts of the trail as well.

Sometimes a flower with showy petals is not needed. These petal-less, yellow Alexanders are beautiful in their own way. These are very typical of prairie remnants. I have only seen these on the eastern edge of the prairie remnant, right along the path. Be aware that there are plenty of non-native imposters on other parts of the trail that are not actually Golden Alexanders.

Sometimes, nature truly does it best! These Prairie Phlox, Canadian Anemone, and Hoary Pacoon bloom flawless together in contrasting colors of pink, orange, and white. Also, take note at the beautiful structure of the grasses, and how they add texture and beauty that complements the flowers well. To truly understand and see the beauty of the prairie, you have to take a few minutes to stop and look at everything. While you’re appreciating these, just take a second to remember that these flowers and grasses once covered 100s of miles here in Iowa and nearby states – just imagine what that would have looked like!