Tag Archives: Falls Lake Dam

The Resilient Carpetweed – Mollugo verticillata

Posted on November 20, 2014 by B. W. Wells Association

“Why write about weeds?” I am sometimes asked.  Although there are many reasons, here is an interesting one: Weeds are the future.  That is one thesis in Peter Del Tredici’s excellent book Wild Urban Plants of the Northeast – A … Continue reading →

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A Variety of Autumn Colors at Falls Lake

Posted on November 13, 2014 by B. W. Wells Association

As a shade loving, understory tree, Carpinus caroliniana, known as American Hornbeam or Ironwood, is rarely seen as a colorful autumn tree.  But given the right circumstances, particularly enough sun, the normal pale yellow leaves can be replaced by bright red.  The … Continue reading →

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The Unusual Symmetry of Facelis retusa (Trampweed)

Posted on October 29, 2014 by B. W. Wells Association

In some respects Facelis retusa, known as Trampweed, is a typical weed: a non-native, broadleaf winter annual that came to us from South America.  The term “weed” typically carries with it the connotation of a sprawling, undisciplined, rank and irregular plant.  But Facelis … Continue reading →

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Distinguishing North Carolina’s Wild Barberries

Posted on September 3, 2014 by B. W. Wells Association

The major Barberry species in North Carolina have many similarities, but their backgrounds are very different.  One (American Barberry)  is an important and rare native plant, with state protected status.  The other three (European, Wintergreen and Japanese Barberry) are introduced species which … Continue reading →

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Southern Chervil (Chaerophyllum tainturieri) at Falls Lake

Posted on May 13, 2014 by B. W. Wells Association

Southern Chervil – Chaerophyllum tainturieri – is a common wildflower and is widely distributed throughout North Carolina. Thus it seems odd that it is overlooked by many of the popular wildflower field guides including Newcomb’s and  Peterson’s field guides, and Wild Flowers … Continue reading →

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Aniseroot (Osmorhiza longistylis) in Spring

Posted on April 16, 2014 by B. W. Wells Association

Aniseroot (Osmorhiza longistylis) is a perennial member of the Carrot family – Apiaceae – and is uncommon to rare in the Wake County portion of Falls Lake.  A few years ago, there was a very large population at the tailrace below … Continue reading →

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