Observaciones de wild-e-rose

Was iNaturalist’s second guess. Found growing in patches on between rocky shoreline and wet ditch leading to wetland. Seems to prefer wetter soil. This plant’s square stem and long pointed leaves are a giveaway to the mint family. It has clustered small light purple/fuschia flower that upon looking closely are trumpet shaped like marsh skullcap. This flower however has a much small upper lip. Leaves are opposite and the pairs alternate directions up along the stem. This plant contributes to diversity, the soil’s health, and likely adds stability to the earth bordering wetlands/marshes.

iNaturalist identified correctly. Clusters of juncus were seen covering extensive areas typically near wet areas or disturbed soil. It can essentially grow in a wide range of habitats as long as the soil is relatively moist. This grass is smooth and cylindrical and very robust. Flowers were typically found in the centre of the stem rather than at the top and looked like brown clusters of seeds. This plant is an important species as it holds together the soil and provides stability in wetland/riparian areas.

iNaturalist identified correctly. Found typically growing in dryer areas such as upland meadows/grasslands and in open forest areas. White flowers are densely clustered in compound corymbs at the top of the plant. Leaves and stem are slightly hairy and dark green. The plant has a slightly earthy sage-like smell. This plant grows well in disturbed soils and its extensive root systems add to the structure and health of the soil.
Juncus effuses
iNaturalist identified correctly. Clusters of juncus were seen covering extensive areas typically near wet areas or disturbed soil. It can essentially grow in a wide range of habitats as long as the soil is relatively moist. This grass is smooth and cylindrical and very robust. Flowers were typically found in the centre of the stem rather than at the top and looked like brown clusters of seeds. This plant is an important species as it holds together the soil and provides stability in wetland/riparian areas.

iNaturalist identified correctly. Growing in clumps near tall dry grass on the coast (coastal uplands). Area where they were growing had anthropogenic influences, was mowed regularly and nearby soil was likely tilled at some point. The bright yellow disc florets and numerous oblong white petals really help distinguish daisies from other similar flowers. The size of the flower heads typically range from 3 to 5cm in diameter which is another key feature as certain aster flowers appear the same but are much smaller. The tall flowers of daisies attract many insects (bees, butterflies, beetles, etc.) and add a bit of beauty to areas where it is mostly short grass.

iNaturalist identified correctly. Seen growing in rocky coastal uplands by the shore. Leaves are heart shaped, slender and curl upwards slightly. The plant’s “flowers” grow all along the stem and are also green in coloration. Small hairlike structures (trichomes) on leaves and stem are visible upon looking closely. Burning sensation after accidentally brushing skin against this plant confirms its species.
Stinging nettle can be used to make tea, and has a wide range of beneficial properties such as: lower blood sugar, lower blood pressure, decrease inflammation, promote hair growth and help fight infections including certain types of cancer.

iNaturalist identified correctly. The bull thistle grows in a wide range of habitats from rocky coastal uplands to highland meadows. It has thorny leaves and buds as well as bright fuschia feathery flowers that bombus spp. use as a source of nectar.

iNaturalist identified correctly. Vascular plant growing in clusters above high tide line. Habitat: coastal uplands -beachstrand. Angled, hairy stem with leaves opposite each other going up and switching in alternating directions. Looks similar to mint however flowers are much larger, mostly located at the top of the stem, and not in clusters like mint. Apex leaves are much more yellow-green than mature leaves, which are heart shaped, narrow and pinnate. These flowering plants provide food for insects/other animals and contribute to the diversity of the coastal uplands.

Found growing in mossy shaded soil under coniferous trees less than 1km from coast of the island. Appears to be a relatively fresh fruiting body as there is no damage to the cap or stipe. Cap is slightly velvety with a brownish-purple tint and pores on underside. After being harvested scratches on the stem became a greenish brown colour. Identified using Mushrooms of Ontario and Eastern Canada.