Date: 2/16/2017
Location:
Baltimore Canyon Open Space Preserve (37.940362, -122.56146) – Elevation: ~600 ft
The Botany Squad is ready to go!
Site Description:
This site itself boasted of grand display of redwood trees, the dominant species in the area. Traveling throughout the space was primarily done through a dirt path, and through off-path trails hikes up and down the valley. Various ferns, shrubs, and other plant-life populated the side of the path.
Species Descriptions:
Dudleya cymosa (Family: Crassulaceae), going by the common name “Rock lettuce”, was one native species we stumbled upon. It is aptly name, as Dr. Paul stated that this plant species is unable to compete against grass on dirt ground. Therefore, it situates itself on nearby rocky outcrops alongside the mountain to avoid the need to compete for resources.
The Rock Lettuce – aptly name, situates itself nearby rocky outcrops.
The Rock lettuce consisted of whorled, succulent leaves consisted of a glabrous surface.
Scoliopus bigelovii (Family: Liliaceae), going by the common name “Slink pod”was another interesting fella we found off the path – also a native to California. Interesting details about the Slink pod are that it is a Redwood specialist (meaning, it will only be where Redwood trees are found) and that it bends its whole structure down so that its flower structure can be inserted into the dirt. In this way, it can plant its own seeds.
The Slink pod – A.K.A., the Tri-force from Zelda
Other notable features of the Slink pod are that it is a monocot with three-petals. It is endemic to the Central Western Region.
Trillium ovatum (Family: Methanthiaceae), also going its common name the “Western wakerobin” is a species native to California. We encountered this species once we descended deeper into the Canyon near the creek.
I was so “t(h)rilled” to see this plant species! Hahaha…haha….haaa *crickets*
Narrative:
The recent weather left the path fairly muddy and damp, but still very-much accessible. After parking our cars (~1:30 PM), we set-off on our journey of epic proportions. While walking along the dirt path, we made frequent pauses to discuss plant species of interest that we passed by. After some time, we came upon a downhill trail that would take us deeper into the Canyon. With it having just rained and the damp rocks and branches needing to be traversed, getting through this path was an interesting experience to say the least. Finally, once we reached the creek of the bottom, we circled back and arrived back at the cars at around 4 PM.
Dr. Paul explaining the difference between “Scotts broom” and “French broom”
Dr. Paul has taken a “lichen” to this plant!!! *insert fake audience laughter*
Such fern, much pretty, waow.
Awesome photo. Nuff said.