posted: Jul 17, 2008



On Paradise Ridge we are lucky to host several rare/endangered plants.   The broadfruit mariposa lily (Calochortus nitidus) pictured above is one of these plants.  Some rare plants like this are listed as threatened because their habitat is endangered or limited due to development, weed invasion, or other  factors.  On the west slope nestled amongst some Mule's ears (Wyethia amplexicaulis) is a grouping of these beautiful flowers.  We have been visiting this site periodically through the spring and summer to check on its progress in the hopes of seeing it bloom.  Jacie scouted the site on just the right day and tipped me off so that I could go take my first glimpse. 
This area is special also because the Palouse thistle (Cirsuim brevifloium) and Palouse goldenweed (Haplopappus liatriformis) are found growing very near.  Both of these are rare Palouse plants as well and are pictured below.  I feel fortunate to see unusual plants like these and hope their populations continue to thrive on the Palouse. 
-Brenda


Palouse thistle ( Cirsium brevifolium)


Palouse goldenweed (Haplopappus liatriformis)