Wildlife Wednesday 08/14/2024

Today’s #WildlifeWednesday is also a summer #WildflowerWednesday as we highlight wingstem, a member of the aster family which is currently in full bloom at The Wilderness Center.

Wingstem, also referred to as yellow ironweed, grows in moist areas near woodland areas and bodies of water. Damp prairies, meadows, and roadside ditches are also ideal habitats for supporting expansive stands of the tall showy plant. 

The name wingstem comes from petioles of its leaves forming ridges or “wings” along the stem. The yellow flower heads which bloom from late summer through early fall are visited by bees, butterflies, skippers, and wasps and the seeds provide food for a number of species of songbirds. The plant is also a host for butterfly and moth larvae.

This stunning plant is easily seen on TWC grounds on the trails, in the prairie, as well as along the roadside leading to the interpretive building. The Pioneer Path trail in particular is a great spot to see expanses of it. Come visit and enjoy the blooms and observe the pollinator visitors!