About plant identification…

Posted on 21 August 2009

In case it isn’t already obvious, I’m a complete non-expert at this task. It seems that I have completely (or, “totally,” as my botanist sister writes… ;-) misidentified the plant in today’s photo.

When it comes to plant identification, I’ll readily admit that I’m far, far, oh so far, from being an expert. In one sense I know a lot – I can often recognize a plant or flower from many previous encounters. I often know exactly when and where it will grow and when it blooms, and I know where to find certain odd and unusual plants.

But when it comes to naming them, I’m often at a loss. Best case, I remember the common names of some that I’ve gotten to know over the years. More typically, I know the plant as “the one with the long stem, pointy leaves, and yellow flowers.” Worst case, I make a wild guess. As I did with the “cattail” photos.

If anyone can give me an accurate identification of this plant, I’ll be very grateful. Scientific names are fine, but common names are also great.