The first sign spring is here are mayapples (lower photo) that spring up in the woods. Also known as the umbrella plant, the plants shoot up almost overnight and ever so slowly unfold their leaves.
The second sign are the beautiful trillium (above) which pop about the same time as mayapples but in fewer numbers. Trillium are sensitive plants. Step on one and it quickly shrivels and dies. If you are in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, don't dare dig up one. It can cost you a hefty fine.
The third sign is my first yellow jacket sting of the season. My hand swelled so badly I couldn't get a glove on. After a dozen or so stings last year, I always keep the Benadryl close by.
If we have to have stings, it's also nice to have mayapples and trillium.
Have you found any morels in the neighborhood of your mayapples? My Daddy always told me that when he found one, he usually found the other.
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of finding, how delightful to find you here.
charlene