The last of the flowers are gone for this Autumn and Winter is fast approaching.
In my list of Wildflowers the last plant to be in flower – on around November 11, is Witch Hazel Hamamelis virginiana An unusual characteristic is that it flowers after it's leaves have died. Each flower with it's 4, very slender, yellow petals contrast with the few brown leaves that still cling to the branches.
The first plant to flower – on about March 15, is Coltsfoot Tussilago farfara It is unusual in that it flowers before it's leaves appear. The yellow, dandelion-like blossoms in late Winter and are one of the first signs of the coming Spring.
Although it may be unusual for plants to flower at times of the year when the weather can be harsh, doing so ensures that there will be little competition in attracting any of the few available pollinators.
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