Dreaming of California Truffles

Dreaming of California Truffles

I’m quick when it comes to spotting potentially edible foods in the wild; partly from lots of reading about California flora, and how the native...

It’s for the Birds!

It’s for the Birds!

I love watching the birds at my feeders, which are strategically placed away from potential danger and in such a way that I get a great view...

Poison Oak and Its Relatives

Poison Oak and Its Relatives

A native plant that we all know (or certainly should!) is Poison Oak (Toxicodendron diversilobium) because it is so widespread in the Bay Area. Many...

Two Redbuds

Two Redbuds

Early in March, the Redbud is ready to burst into bloom; the beautiful zig-zagging tracery of its branches soon to be disguised in a cloud of pink...

Mule’s Ears

Mule’s Ears

A plant that is definitely not easy in garden culture is Mule’s Ears (Wyethia species) and there are several look-alikes—all native California...

Thinking About Weeds and Wildflowers

Thinking About Weeds and Wildflowers

Micro-Habitats; Knowing Your Land My husband and I live on a south facing hillside situated above the Novato Creek floodplains; it’s a beautiful,...

My Experience Raising Butterfly Larvae

My Experience Raising Butterfly Larvae

Before bringing caterpillars (larvae) into your home or classroom be sure that you know what species of butterfly they are and what their larval...

The Family Asclepiadaceae

The Family Asclepiadaceae

The genus name, Asclepias, derives from the Greek god and healer, Asclepios. The Roman god of healing and medicine was named Aesculapius, and there...