Rue anemone (Thalictrum thalictroides) did it again – they are the earliest blooming wildflowers in my yard. They must have learned some lessons from the hotly contested Republican candidate for President race, and trying to avoid lingering competition and wanting a decisive early win they produced flowers much ahead of last year (April 16 in 2011). The plan almost did not work – I have some white trout lily (Erythronium albidum) that are about to open up.
This year the rue anemone flowers are almost the first and only visible part of the plant. There are few leaves, and the early heat and sun of last week must have forced them to bloom first and worry about details later. This is much different from 2011 when the plants developed a good amount of leafy bushiness before producing the telltale white petals.
As for last week’s heat, it has been suddenly replaced by 20 degree weather and blustery wind. Once again I let my guard down too easy and put my sweaters away too early.
Leave a Reply