Friday, May 08, 2015

Week of weeds: Day 5.

Finding the identity of this weed proved to be a little problematic.  
I have a wonderful book that I use for weed identification, it is called 'Weeds of California and Other Western States' and is published by the University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR).  (If anyone is interested, it is Publication 3488.)  The book is actually two volumes; Vol. 1 covers Aizoaceae - Fabaceae and Vol. 2 covers Geraniaceae - Zygophyllaceae.  All fabulous stuff, but although extensive in its coverage of California weeds it would be impossible for a single reference book to include every weed - as is the case with my weed of the day, purple sanicle (Sanicula bipinnatifidia).  A member of the same family as parsley, purple sanicle is native to the west coast of North America so it surprises me that it was overlooked in the ANR book.  
I just love this little weed, whose deep-red orbs just seem to float above all the other surrounding vegetation.  It is a rather elusive weed and only grows in one area of Vinoland. Yes, again, that would be on the slope above the house.

5 comments:

New Hampshire Wineman said...

VG: My books again had nothing on Vinolands 'mystery' weeds, but my books did have some interesting things to say about the Black Sanicle.
The European family member has some relationship to you: "The renowned English herbalist of the 16th century, John Gerard held mixing black snakeroot in any vulnerary potion or wound drinks in high esteem. According to Gerard, this mixing completely and safely cured all the internal wounds and external injuries effectively."

Thud said...

Slow down there girl you are leading too fast a life.

Vinogirl said...

NHW: Cool stuff. I bet there are a ton of interesting stories in botany.

Thud: Would that be 'sloe' (Prunus spinosa) down?

Thomas said...

Spinosa ate prunes???

Vinogirl said...

Tomasso: Most likely damsons.