June marks a vibrant season of growth, with trees lush and gardens bursting with life.
The beauty of nature beckons many to venture outdoors, and for those familiar with the Capitol Hill neighborhood, the weeds are flourishing alongside the greenery.
With sunnier days upon us, leisurely walks replace the hurried, rain-soaked dog strolls. During these moments of reflection, an opportunity to observe unfolds, revealing the hidden intricacies of local flora.
One significant aspect of embracing nature is its ability to cultivate curiosity and open-mindedness. The more we engage with our environment, the more we uncover, leading to a cascade of questions that enrich our experiences as community members and stewards of the land.
Recently, I confronted my long-held beliefs about various plants frequently encountered in urban settings. For years, I dismissed many species as invasive nuisances or foreign weeds. The discussion surrounding native versus non-native plants is complex and laden with nuances, often requiring a willingness to reconsider established views.
Over time, however, I’ve developed a deeper appreciation for native plants, not out of disdain for introduced species, but due to their substantial contributions to local ecosystems. While non-native plants may offer beauty or some benefits, native species often provide a wealth of ecological services.
For instance, a native plant may serve as a vital food source for pollinators, while also acting as a host for caterpillars and providing shelter for overwintering insects.
Capitol Hill remains a tapestry of both native and exotic species, and while the mingling of plants from various origins is a reality that cannot be changed, it does not diminish the importance of nurturing the native species still present in the area.
Astoundingly, I’ve recently discovered that several plants I long considered to be non-native actually belong to the Pacific Northwest. This realization calls into question whether they truly merit the label of “weed” or if they are simply misunderstood. The following native plants, which I had mistakenly deemed foreign, are notable allies in our local ecosystems.
The Fringed Willowherb, known scientifically as Epilobium ciliatum, is one such example. Throughout my life, I have diligently removed this unassuming plant from garden beds, perceiving it as an unwanted weed. It was only six years ago that I first learned its name and recognized its ecological value.
Fringed Willowherb is remarkably prolific, producing lightweight seeds that easily disperse in the wind. While gardeners may find their rapid spread concerning, it’s essential to acknowledge their role within the natural landscape.
In comparison to its larger cousin, Fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium), Fringed Willowherb’s demure pink flowers are less striking, often blending in with the surroundings.
Nevertheless, this plant is an asset to local wildlife; native bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies are drawn to its nectar, while various moth species rely on it as a host plant.
For those with ample garden space, welcoming Fringed Willowherb can be a rewarding decision, as it requires little cultivation and provides ecological benefits.
Another plant worthy of recognition is Cleavers, known by several names including Sticky Weed, Stickywilly, Goose Grass, and Catchweed Bedstraw (Gallium aparine). My dog finds delight in nibbling on this velcro-like plant each spring, leading me to appreciate its role in our shared ecosystem.
Despite its mixed reputation, Cleavers has a unique utility for both humans and animals. Historically, it has been consumed raw or steamed, brewed as a diuretic tea, and even utilized in cheese-making and textile dyeing.
Conversely, its rapid growth and ability to cling to nearby plants can be perceived as a nuisance. Many people typically dismiss Cleavers as a weed, overlooking its potential contributions.
Its tenacity allows Cleavers to thrive in various habitats, while also introducing individuals to other native plants within the same genus. Although I do not wish to see Cleavers dominate my garden, I find comfort in coexisting with this fleeting plant.
Every spring, I encounter Pineapple Weed (Matricaria discoidea) on my driveway, a plant I formerly considered foreign and removed without thought. This year, I took the time to discover its true origins and realize it is native to the region.
Thriving in compacted, poor soils, Pineapple Weed has been dispersed beyond its native range, largely due to human activities. While it produces delightful tea and can be enjoyed raw, its proliferation beyond native boundaries complicates its status as a beloved local species.
Notably, the crushed leaves emit a pleasant pineapple aroma, lending the plant its appropriate name.
Self-heal (Prunella vulgaris) provides another example of native flora deserving appreciation. Known also as heal-all, this plant possesses a wide reputation due to its historical use in herbal medicine, even if scientific validation of its remediation benefits remains inconclusive.
Native to various locales across the Northern Hemisphere, Self-heal has both native and introduced populations within our area. With its purple flowers and resilience against foot traffic, this plant is excellent for pollinators and can outcompete less desirable plants.
Among the plants presented here, I would personally advocate for the cultivation of Self-heal due to its adaptability and beauty. While the other species on my list are fascinating in their own right, Self-heal stands out for its valuable contributions to both ecosystem and aesthetics.
Embarking on this journey of discovery has reinforced the importance of understanding native plants and their roles within our community.
By challenging assumptions and embracing a willingness to learn, individuals can enhance their stewardship of the environment and advocate for the coexistence of diverse plant species. Seeking knowledge from community members and engaging in thoughtful conversations are essential in fostering a richer relationship with the natural world.
In a time when environmental awareness is increasingly needed, the call to action is clear: we must prioritize the cultivation of our native flora, while remaining open to the complexities of our ecosystem.
Through our collective efforts, we can ensure that these remarkable plants, with their myriad benefits, continue to thrive in our neighborhoods.
image source from：capitolhillseattle
