Apiaceae

Cow Parsley Made Over

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In my part of the world, mid-summer is the time when every country hedgerow, roadside verge and untended space is covered with the blue flowers of wild chicory and the frothy blooms of Queen Anne’s lace. Those distinctive white flowerheads are so vigorous that they may even spring up from wide sidewalk cracks. I love … Read more

Umbrellas and Bees

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Plant taxonomists are the scientists who make it their business to classify the world’s flora according to common characteristics.  In the last thirty years or so, DNA has become a major player in this effort.  Now plants that dirt gardeners, horticulturists and plant scientists only suspected of family relationships have been grouped or regrouped based … Read more