Wood lilies

Mid June is wood lily (Lilium philadelphicum) time in southern Wisconsin, although there is always considerable uncertainty about peak flowering. The photo here is of a nice plant that Kathie was able to establish originally from seed. It took quite a few years before it first flowered, but has been displaying nice color for the past 4 or 5 years.

Our favorite native site for wood lilies is Black Earth Rettenmund Prairie, and some nice specimens are already showing there. Because of the late spring, the huge display we generally have here has been delayed, but it is now coming on.

Last night we ran our annual field trip to Rettenmund Prairie. There were quite a few open flowers, but even more important there are dozens (hundreds) of plants in bud. With the recent rains, these should be opening soon.

Thus, any time in the next week or so should be fine for a visit to Black Earth Rettenmund Prairie. Just stay on the trail.