Tag Archives: Pipsissewa

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Amy Ruegg several weeks ago wrote, "I am so excited to share my photo of Little Prince’s Pine or Pipsissewa, which grows in the Redwood forest on the ridge in The Sea Ranch. It is such a special little plant, only about two or three inches tall. I have been trying to find one in full bloom and get a picture of it for over five years. Today it was absolutely perfect, even though the mosquitoes were attacking me as I held still for the shot.”

Craig Tooley also got a photo one one, this one a close-up of the flower. Isn't it striking?

A neighboring property in Anchor Bay has several groups of these native wildflowers, but they are growing in full sun. However, this year there are no flowers. These tiny plants are quite sturdy, and they are a joy to find.

Thanks to Amy and Craig for allowing me to share their photos with you here. To see much more of Craig's nature photography, here is the link to his website: http://www.ruffimage.com

Happy Summer Solstice, the first day of summer. We started out foggy this morning but the sun soon prevailed, at least in Anchor Bay. It's sunny with a few drifting high clouds. I wish you a happy summer as we navigate through these difficult times. Walks in nature can surely help!

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Little Prince's Pine, Chimaphila menziesii, is blooming now on the Mendonoma Coast. They are fairly rare so it's a treat to see one. Ken Browning recently photographed one he found on The Sea Ranch.

One is also blooming on the Gualala Ridge. There are a few on our neighbor's property but they haven't put out a bloom yet. This native wildflower is also called Pipsissewa. It is only about two inches high and the leaves are saw-toothed.

Wildflowers like these are Mother Nature's way of seeing if you are paying attention!

Thanks to Ken for allowing me to share his photo with you here.