We went to the Skyline Serpentine Prairie in Redwood Regional Park to look for Yellow Mariposa Tulips (Calochortus luteus). Although past peak and many plants were in fruit there were still Calochortus in bloom as you walked around the loop. Most abundant plants were California Poppies, mostly smaller yellow coastal variety and Yarrow. The grasses are abundant and tall creating some obstacles for photography. Here are some photos from today’s trip.
The Skyline Serpentine prairie is a restored and protected area. The management of the area includes prescribed burns and the weeding out of invasive species. Serpentine is the official California state rock. Serpentine areas are not supportive of many alien species creating an area that are supportive of native wildflowers and grasses. The prairie is protected by fence but can be easily viewed and photographed from the surrounding paths. Wildflowers can be found outside the fenced area as well.For more information about the Skyline Serpentine Prairie, you can read this article by Stephen W. Edwards, Ph.D. the former director of the Regional Parks Botanic Garden http://www.ebparks.org/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?BlobID=28197 There is an excellent illustrated list of wildflowers found here at Redwood Serpentine Prairie Plants To see a list of native plants that I found in bloom today click on Read More
Skyline Serpentine Prairie Plant List 6/17/11
Blue Elderberry (Sambucus mexicana)
Bush Monkey Flower ( Mimulus aurantiacus)
California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica)
Climbing Morning Glory (Calystegia purpurata ssp.purpurata)
Gum Plant (Grindelia sp.)
Ithuriel’s Spear (Triteleia laxa)
Presidio Clarkia (Clarkia franciscana)
Soap -plant (Chlorogalum pomeridianum var. divaricatum)
Sticky Rosinweed (Calycadenia multiglandulosa).
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Yellow Mariposa Tulip (Calochortus luteus)
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