Goldenrod

Goldenrod
Originally uploaded by paynehollow

One of the many species of goldenrod. This blooms in late summer - July-September-ish. Although allergies acting up are often blamed on goldenrod, I have it on good authority (wikipedia) that it is not goldenrod pollen causing bad allergies in the late summertime, but more likely Ragweed.

And now you know.

Small White Wood Aster

Small White Wood Aster
Originally uploaded by paynehollow

Or possibly Calico Aster? I'd say definitely in the Aster family. Maybe.

This blooms in the fall and apparently profusely so. What a glorious bouquet!

Sassafras Tree

Sassafras Turning
Originally uploaded by paynehollow

There are plenty of sassafras trees in these woods. The leaves come in about three shapes: There's the mitten-looking leaf shown here, the spear-shaped leaf and then the mitten-looking leaf with a "thumb" on both sides.

The roots of the sassafras can be dug up and boiled into an aromatic and fine-tasting tea. Unfortunately, ingested in too great amounts, the tea can be carcinogenic, according to recent studies.

However, it is my understanding that once or so a year is not enough to warrant concern.

Mistflower

Mistflower
Originally uploaded by paynehollow

The Mist flower is an attractive late season perennial about 3 feet tall with blue flowers. The Mist Flower is also known as Blue Bonnet or Wild Ageratum.

Blooms late summer.

Tall Ironweed

Tall Ironweed
Originally uploaded by paynehollow

From one source, tall ironweed...

May be a noxious weed or invasive
This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies and/or birds
Self-sows freely; deadhead if you do not want volunteer seedlings next season
This plant is resistant to deer

Blooms late summer.