Winter Walks

I live in a very historic town. One of the interesting aspects about the town is that it was established right along the Wabash River. Of course the Native People lived here first. One of the unusual and interesting sites around are the Mounds.

There are two Mounds that were once used by the Native People. They haven't been completely explored but they have been brought to the fore lately. One of the Mounds was cut in two by a highway coming through years ago and this is where a friend of mine and I decided to hike this week.

She is doing a study of the plants growing on and around this Mound. There is an old sign on top of the Mound declaring it a property of the Knox Co Parks Dept. No one does anything to the Mound now days but they are thinking about it so the study is being done.

I always learn something when I go out with my friend. She knows more about plants than I will ever learn. One thing that was brought to my attention while we were out was the seed pods of the Bundleflower Desmanthus illinoesis.  It is a weed by any other name but I found the seed pods most intriguing. It is hard but it looks soft like the petals of an open rose. 

The petal peel off and the seeds drop out to spread about. This is growing in sandy soil. No doubt it would take over if it were planted in half decent soil. I am tempted. The blooms aren't much to look at but it is in the mimosa family and it has those tropical looking leaves. 

I hope you get to get out this weekend and hike around. Be sure to share what you have found.