Date: 5/4/2023

Location: Steep Ravine is located in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which is in the northern part of San Francisco, California.

Site description: The ravine itself is a narrow, steep-sided canyon that runs down to the Pacific Ocean. It is filled with  ferns, wildflowers, and towering redwood trees. There are also several streams that run through the ravine, which create small waterfalls and pools along the way.

Species Description: 

• Horsetail plants belong to the family Equisetaceae. They have hollow, ribbed stems that are jointed and segmented, with small, scale-like leaves arranged in whorls at the joints. Horsetail plants have two different types of stems: fertile and sterile. The fertile stems are shorter than the sterile stems and bear the plant’s reproductive structures, which consist of cone-like structures at the tips of the stems. The cones produce spores that allow the plant to reproduce.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/161111467

• The bigleaf maple belongs to the family Sapindaceae.The leaves are deeply lobed and have five to seven lobes, with serrated edges. The leaf color can range from light green to dark green, and the underside of the leaf is paler than the top.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/161107964

• Ladyfern is a common name for a group of fern species belonging to the family Athyriaceae. Ladyfern fronds are long and thin, with a triangular shape and pinnately divided blades. The blade of the ladyfern frond is composed of leaflets called pinnae, which are arranged on either side of a central axis called the rachis. The pinnae are often lobed or toothed, giving the frond a delicate, lacy appearance. Ladyfern fronds can be bright green or bluish-green in color

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/161107787

Narrative: Our last class field trip was absolutely amazing, and I made sure to enjoy every single moment of it. It was such a great semester, and I feel so grateful that we had the chance to explore so many beautiful locations that I probably wouldn’t have seen otherwise. Steep Ravine was such a perfect spot to finish our field trips, with its breathtaking surroundings and perfect weather. The shady trees made it such a pleasant hike, and it was so wonderful to just take in all the stunning scenery. Honestly, it was the perfect way to wrap up our class journey, and I couldn’t have asked for a better ending!

Date: 4/27/2023 12:45 pm-5:00 pm

Location: Ring Mountain which is located in Marin County, California, in the United States.

Site Description: Ring Mountain is known for its rare and endangered plant species, including the Tiburon Mariposa Lily and the Mt. Tamalpais Manzanita. These plants can be seen on the mountain’s slopes and add to the area’s natural beauty. It also offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay Area. Hiking trails in the Ring Mountain open space preserve lead to several vantage points where visitors can see the bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the surrounding hills.

Species Description:

1) Tidytips, also known as Layia platyglossa, is a flowering plant species in the Asteraceae family. The morphology of tidytips is characterized by its yellow petals, which are fringed with white edges. The flower heads are daisy-like in appearance. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem and are covered in fine hairs, giving them a slightly fuzzy texture.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/159697293

2) Lepidium latifolium, commonly known as pepperweed or tall whitetop, is a species of flowering plant in the Brassicaceae family. They have erect stems that can reach up to 2 meters in height. The leaves are simple and elongated, with toothed margins and a waxy surface that helps to conserve water. The flowers are small and white and are arranged in clusters on long stalks called racemes.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/159697076

3) Coast morning glory, also known as beach morning glory or Ipomoea imperative, is a flowering plant species in the Convolvulaceae family. The leaves are small and succulent, with a slightly wavy or curled edge, and are arranged alternately along the stem. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and pink, purple, or white in color. 

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/159696707

Narrative: One of the most captivating sights I’ve seen on a trip was the stunning view of the houses in this area. I couldn’t help but daydream about living there with the breathtaking views that surrounded it. Although the weather was hot and there weren’t many shaded places, the exhilarating hiking trails, and picturesque views made it all worthwhile. One of the highlights of this trip was when our class went to In-N-Out to eat together, which made for a fun and memorable experience.

Date: 4/20/2023

Location:  North of Mt Tam to Big Rock 

Site Description: Mount Tamalpais is a popular outdoor recreation destination and is known for its stunning views of the San Francisco Bay Area and the Pacific Ocean. The area offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, camping opportunities, and scenic drives.

Species Description:

• Castilleja exserta, commonly known as the purple owl’s clover, is a herbaceous plant species that belongs to the family Orobanchaceae. The flowers are bilaterally symmetrical, consisting of a tubular calyx and a two-lipped corolla. The upper lip is hooded and the lower lip is divided into three lobes and has a single stem with linear to lanceolate leaves that are green in color. 

• Leptosiphon androsaceus or false baby star is a species of flowering plant in the family Polemoniaceae. The leaves are often twisted or curled and have smooth or slightly hairy surfaces. The flowers are typically white, although they may also be pale pink or lavender. They have five petals fused at the base to form a short tube, with the tips of the petals spreading outwards. 

• Nemophila menziesii, commonly known as baby blue eyes, is a species of flowering plant in the family Boraginaceae. The plant has alternate leaves that are deeply lobed and palmately divided into 5-7 segments. The leaves are generally hairy, especially on the underside. They have five petals fused at the base to form a short tube, with the tips of the petals spreading outwards. The flowers are small and have a light blue color.

Narrative: Big Rock provided an idyllic setting for hiking, with ideal weather conditions. The breathtaking scenery of the lush mountains, colorful flowers, and positive atmosphere created an unforgettable experience for me.

Date: 4/13/2023 from 12:45pm-4:30pm

Location: Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve located South of San Francisco and the drive took about an hour from the University of San Francisco.

Site Description: Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve is a beautiful and expansive protected area located in San Mateo County, California. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including the endangered Bay Checkerspot butterfly and several species of raptors, such as hawks and eagles. Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, as well as students and researchers interested in the ecology of the Bay Area.

Species Description:

1) Clematis lasiantha is a plant species that belongs to the family Ranunculaceae.The plant has slender stems with leaves that are compound and arranged alternately along the stem. The leaves are usually divided into three leaflets that are ovate to lanceolate in shape and have toothed edges. The flowers of Clematis lasiantha are bell-shaped, with four to six sepals, white in color.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/155780656

2) Sticky monkey flower, scientifically known as Diplacus aurantiacus., is a species of flowering plant in the Phrymaceae family. It has small, dark green, and oval-shaped leaves that are arranged in an opposite pattern along the stem. The leaves that are sticky to the touch flower are trumpet-shaped and typically range in color from orange to red and the flowers are clustered.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/155781016

3)  Henderson’s Shooting Star, scientifically known as Dodecatheon hendersonii, is a species of flowering plant in the family Primulaceae. found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, forests, and rocky slopes. It has basal leaves that form a rosette at the base of the stem. The leaves are lance-shaped, the  petals are reflexed (bent backwards) and arranged in the shape of a star, usually pink or lavender in color.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/155783625

Narrative: Our first field trip where we encountered warmer weather than usual. We encountered a steep uphill section that caught me off guard, and I struggled a bit to keep up because I was fasting as well. However, the highlight of the trip for me was when we stumbled upon a trio of adorable deer just hanging out on the grass. They were so cute, but at the same time, in the back of my head I was ready to run if they would attack. During this trip we definitely learned about many different plant species as most of them were blooming.

Date: 4/6/2023 from 12:45pm-4:00pm

Location: This week’s field trip was at the Marine Headlands, it is located in Marin County, California, USA. It is situated on a peninsula north of San Francisco across the Golden Gate Bridge.

Site Description: The headlands offer stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, and the Pacific Ocean. The rugged landscape is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including many endangered species. Visitors can explore the area’s hiking trails, picnic areas, and beaches, or learn about the rich cultural and natural history at the Headlands Center for the Arts and the Marine Mammal Center. The site is also famous for outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and wildlife watching.

Species Description:

• Sparaxis tricolor is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Iridaceae family. The plant typically grows up to 40 cm in height and features basal, linear leaves that are up to 20 cm long. The flower stems are topped with clusters of brightly colored flowers that are red, yellow, and white, with a distinctive black center. Each flower features three outer petals and three inner petals, and the flowers are approximately 3-5 cm in diameter.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/154705363

• Lasthenia plants are annual or perennial herbs that belong to the family Asteraceae they can grow up to 50 cm in height. The leaves are typically long and narrow, with a lanceolate or linear shape. The flowers are arranged in clusters and have daisy-like appearances, with bright yellow petals surrounding a central disc of small yellow or brown flowers.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/154708035

• San Francisco wallflower (Erysimum franciscanum) is a herbaceous perennial that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It grows up to 30 cm tall and has lance-shaped leaves that are 2-8 cm long. The bright yellow flowers are clustered at the stem’s end and arranged in a cross shape with four petals. They measure 1-2 cm in diameter, and the flower cluster can be up to 10 cm long. This plant is native to the San Francisco Bay Area and thrives in rocky or sandy soils

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/154706225

Narrative: During our field trip, we took a mock exam and identified approximately 40 plant families. Although I was anxious about the quiz, it wasn’t as challenging as I had anticipated. The weather was delightful, and the scenery was breathtaking. While we had to hike uphill initially, the return trip was downhill, which made for a nice balance. Additionally, we had the opportunity to learn about new plants as we journeyed along. One memorable moment from the trip was when the University Staff mistakenly gave Professor Paul and Liz the same key for the car, instead of two separate keys.

Date: 3/23/2023 from 12:45pm- 5:00pm

Location: Mount Tamalpais to Ridgecrest Blvd and Homestead Fire Road

Site Description: There are a variety of flower species that can be found on Mount Tamalpais, particularly in the spring and early summer months. Some of those flowering species are California poppy, Lupine, Indian paintbrush, Wild iris, Mariposa lily, etc.. The trail includes grassy meadows and open hillsides as well as steep inclines and descents. The view is beautiful and well worth the visit.

Species Description:

1) The scientific name of the plant is commonly known as “sun cup” and belongs  to the family Onagraceae. Morphological features include alternate leaves, flowers are cup-shaped and have four petals that are bright yellow colored, and the stems are erect or ascending.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/152804797 

2) Pedicularis Densiflora commonly known as Indian Warrior and belongs to the family Orobanchaceae. Morphological features include showy bright flowers with a red to maroon hue, and arranged in dense spikes at the top of the stem. The leaves are alternate, simple, and deeply lobed.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/152804863

3) Berberis Pinnata belongs to the family Berberidaceae. The morphological features include leaves that are small oval or elliptical in shape, arranged alternatively on the stem and have spiny edges. The flowers are small and yellow in color and grow in clusters. The stems are woody and have many branches that are covered in spines.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/152804834

Narrative: The first day of Ramadon was on this field trip, so of course it was a little challenging than usual because I couldn’t eat or drink. The weather was pretty nice and the views were stunning. This time we didn’t do much hiking but there were lots of plant species to learn about. 

Date: 3/2/2023, from 12:45 pm-5:00 pm

Location: San Pedro Valley Park located in Pacifica, California. The drive took about 50 minutes from the University of San Francisco to the park.

Site Description: San Pedro Valley Park features picnic areas, restrooms, and a visitor center that offers exhibits on the park’s natural history and environmental education programs. The park is open year-round and admission is free, though there is a fee for parking. The park also offers a variety of hiking trails, including the Hazelnut  Trail, the Montara Trail, and the Brooks Creek Trail, which allow visitors to explore nature and enjoy the stunning view while hiking.

Species Description:

1) Montara Manzanita belongs to the family Ericaceae.Its leaves are evergreen and grow alternately on the stem. The leaves are small, typically measuring 1-5 cm in length and have smooth edges. They have a glossy, dark green appearance on the upper surface. The flowers of this plant are bell or urn-shaped and are grouped in clusters. They are pinkish-white in color and appear in the early spring.

 iNaturalisthttps://www.inaturalist.org/observations/150622375

2) Evergreen Huckleberry belongs to the family Ericaceae. The leaves are simple, oval-shaped, and are measures between 1-3 cm in length. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and have finely tooth edges. The flowers are pinkish-white. The stems is woody, the bark is of the stem is smooth and brownish-gray in color.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/150632516

3) Madrons belong to the family Ericaceae. They are evergreen trees with simple, oval-shaped, dark green leaves that have smooth edges. The tree produces urn-shaped, white or pinkish-white flowers. The bark of the tree is smooth and reddish-brown in color, and the tree has a distinctive, twisted shape with multiple trunks. 

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/150622863

Narrative: I really enjoyed our trip to San Pedro valley park. The views were absolutely stunning from the car drive to the hiking. The walk uphill was definitely tiring but got a good leg day workout out of it. The only way I got to the top was when Professor Paul said there would be an In-N-Out uphill, unfortunately, that was just words of motivation. My snack of the day though was also chocolate-covered almonds and cold water best believe I Doordashed after I went back home but still it wasn’t In-N-Out.

Field Journal Entry 2- Presidio

Date of trip: 2/23/2023 at from 12:45pm-4:30pm

Location: San Francisco California, the Presidio. Specifically the Battery to Bluffs trail. The distance is about 10 miles from the University of San Francisco which is about 12 minutes

Site Description: The Batteries Buffet Trail is a scenic hiking trail located in the Presidio of San Francisco, California. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay. The trail is considered an easy to moderate hike, with some sections being a bit steep, but generally manageable.

Species Description:

Wallflower (genus ervsimum): The leaves of wallflowers are narrow and lance-shaped, with a slightly toothed or smooth margin. The flowers are produced in dense clusters at the ends of stems and can be quite showy, with four petals that are  bilaterally symmetrical . The petals are white in colored.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/150043844 

California Poppies (genus eschscholzia): bright orange or yellow-orange in color, have four petals that are wrinkled and crumpled in appearance. The petals are obovate in shape, with a slightly rounded tip, and are 1 to 2 inches in diameter. The center of the flower is prominent, yellow-orange stigma surrounded by a ring of stamens with bright yellow anthers.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/150057846

Periwinkles (genus Vinca): The leaves of periwinkles are evergreen and glossy, with a dark green color. They are ovate to lanceolate in shape, opposite in arrangement, and grow up to 5 cm long. The leaves are also leathery in texture and have a prominent midrib. The flowers of periwinkles are solitary, and they appear at the tips of the stems. Funnel-shaped with five petals, in the color white and purple.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/150043745

Narrative: Well, the trip was a rollercoaster ride of weather, with us experiencing all four seasons in just about four hours. But despite that, we were having a blast until Professor Paul decided to play daredevil and stand on the edge of a high cliff just to show us some plants. I mean, who knew botany could be so extreme? I guess Paul lives by the motto “you’re not hardcore unless you live hardcore”. Also I want in include the snack of the day from now on, so m y snack of  day was chocolate covered almonds!

Date of the Trip : 2/16/2023 at 12:45 pm

Location:  Mt. Tamalpais  State Park specifically Laurel Dell Trailhead was the location of the first field trip. The trip takes about 45 minutes and is well worth it for the chance to experience the beauty of Mt. Tamalpais State Park.

Site Description: Mt. Tamalpais State Park in California, the Laurel Dell Trailhead is a beautiful spot to explore nature. As you start your hike, you’ll be surrounded by rolling hills covered in lush forests of towering trees, including the famous coast redwoods that can reach up to 300 feet tall! As you wander down the Laurel Dell Trail, you’ll follow a babbling creek that adds a soothing soundtrack to your adventure. Along the way, you’ll come across a variety of habitats, including fern-filled grottos, open meadows, and of course, stands of those impressive redwoods. The forest is also home to a range of wildlife species, such as black-tailed deer and gray foxes, as well as a diverse array of birds.

Species Description:

Western Sword fern (Polystichum Munitum):

typically grows to a height of 2-4 feet (60-120 cm) and has a girth of 2-4 feet (60-120 cm) as well. The fern has a clumping growth form, with individual fronds arising from a central crown. The sori is arranged in groups of 5-6, found under redwoods, and the segments alternate.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/149449066

Gold back Fern (Pentagramma triangularis ‘Goldback’)

The Gold back Fern is a small fern, typically growing to about 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) in height. It has a compact growth form, with fronds arising from a central clump or crown. The fronds are composed of several small, triangular-shaped leaflets that give the fern a delicate, lacy appearance. As you can see in the picture below the leaves from the back are bright golden, which gives them a unique characteristic from the other ferns. They live mostly in rocky slopes and their texture is a bit leathery.

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/149456227

California Fetid Adderstongue ( Scolipus bigelovii):

A small plant, typically growing to about 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) in height. It has a single leaf that arises from an underground rhizome, and the leaf is shaped like a tongue, with a pointed tip and a wavy margin. The leaf is a deep, glossy green color and has a somewhat leathery texture. It has a strong odor like a rotten meat  which can be a defense mechanism for them. They live mostly in shady areas that more moist.

 https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/149449081

Narrative:

Wow, the Laurel Dell Trailhead was seriously amazing! The views were out of this world! I mean, we saw everything from the forest, ocean, and the waterfall! The weather was a bit windy, but honestly, it just added to the whole experience. My legs were seriously feeling it the next day, but hey, that’s just proof I  got a great workout in, right? Anyway, I only wish we had more time to hang out by the ocean, but it’s all good because I’m definitely going back to this place whenever I have some free time. It’s just too beautiful to not explore every inch of it. Overall, I’d say the Laurel Dell Trailhead is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves being in nature. From the stunning views to the diverse landscapes, it’s an experience that you won’t soon forget! Here are some photos of the class with this unbelievable view:)

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