As a state known for its greenery and its abundance of plants and wildlife, today’s colonialism and modern-day society has changed the way Oregon interacts with the natural world. We have become less connected, less dependent on our environment for survival. While the commodities and conveniences of modern day allow us to pursue other ventures while living with less discomfort, we also lose the benefits that plants and nature can provide. While we may have grocery stores, garden centers, cars, and technology that occupy our minds and bodies, sometimes appreciating what was already here before the modernization of society can be refreshing. The list of native plants for any region can be extensive and by no means am I educated in this field, so we’re keeping it simple and focusing on eye candy – otherwise known as flowers. With an attempt to learn a little more, here are a few plants you can look out for as we transition into warmer months!
Starting off with the rhododendron. A large evergreen shrub that flowers during spring into the early summer, native rhododendrons have a color variance from pink to purple, and sometimes even white. The flower is most commonly seen in yards and parks, but these are not the native variety and have been bred to achieve a wide variety of color and increase bloomage. The native plants have more sparse foliage, leading to fewer overall blooms. If looking to see a plant of the native variety, they aren’t usually too hard to find, assuming it’s the right time of year. Both the coast range and mountains – as well as the land between – have them, with elevation playing a role in the time at which they bloom.
The camas flower is a small, purple-indigo flower with six uniform petals and six yellow pollen stems in the center. The camas bulb was one of the most important plants in this region for native populations who survived off the starchy root. Roasting the bulbs in coals or making them into flours were two popular ways of consumption. The fructose produced by these bulbs is a convenient sweetener used in other dishes, and native peoples still use the flower today, making it a multi-century staple in our region. The camas flower can be found in lowland prairies and other moist grasslands, it often scatters its indigo hue across the grass fields. Blooming from April to June, the timing is once again dependent on elevation along with many other environmental factors.
The Oregon grape – Oregon’s state flower – is one of the most common species of flowers in the Pacific Northwest, usually found in forest understory. The large prickly-leafed shrub blooms around spring and pops with dainty yellow flowers throughout, lighting up any space it’s in with color. The state legislature officially adopted the Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium) in 1899 for its unique features, resilience, and historical significance to the area. After flowering, the plant’s buds turn into dark bluish-black round berries that, while edible, are extremely sour and seedy. If you want to see the vibrant yellow that encapsulates this spiky bush, it shouldn’t be too hard to find in most natural spaces.
The iris tenax is a species of iris native to our region. It has flowers ranging from blue to purple and is known for its tough leaves. Wild iris thrive in moist environments, and bloom in the springtime. It is usually found along roads, grasslands, or forest openings at lower elevations. While its flowers may be nice to look at, all parts of the plant are poisonous to humans, making for a robust and resilient native plant.
There are a few flowers you can look out for on your outdoor ventures this year and while you’re at it, maybe you can add to the list of native flowers and plants. Enjoy the colors and elegance of some of Earth’s most beautiful creations.
The Axe 