Photo Essay | Spring Wildflowers Along the Root River Trail
Explore the simple joy of the unique blossoms that greet spring in the Driftless
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ROOT RIVER VALLEY, FILLMORE COUNTY – Spring wildflowers are in their prime along the Root River Trail but their time is fleeting.
Now would be a good time to help your children or grandchildren locate and name common ones that grow here in Southeast Minnesota. When children recognize and name wildflowers, they develop a connection to nature that may engender curiosity and respect for all the wonders that surround us.
I followed the blooms as they emerged with each month and recorded where I saw them near mile markers around Lanesboro and Whalan.
In March, near mile markers 11 and 16, the first wildflower to open was Hepatica, followed by Bloodroot.

Hepatica. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)

Spring flowers. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)
In April, Spring Beauties emerged near mile marker 13.

Spring Beauties. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)
Virginia Bluebells and Dutchman’s Breeches stretched for acres around mile marker 15.

Virginia Bluebells. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)

Dutchman’s Breeches. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)
Three patches of white Rue Anemones in Whalan are adjacent to the trail near the bench by the river. Lavender and pink Windflower Rue Anemones grow near mile marker 18.

Rue Anemone. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)

Windflower Rue Anemone. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)
You may also see Blue Violets and White and Purple Violets in this location.

Blue Violet. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)

White and Purple Violets. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)
In late April and into May, look for May-Apple umbrellas, Buttercups, Blue Phlox, Large Flower Bellwort and Wild Geraniums as they brighten the woods.

May Apple. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)

Buttercup. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)

Blue Phlox. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)

Large Flower Bellwort. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)

Wild Geranium. (Photo by Renee Bergstrom)
Contributor
Renée Bergstrom
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