Tag: Wildlife habitat

Although widely considered an invasive weed, bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) has existed for at least 55 million years, showcasing remarkable resilience and a range of ecological advantages. This article explores the lesser-known benefits of bracken, from its role in supporting biodiversity to its historical and modern-day uses outside of consumption, highlighting important safety considerations.

Prairie rose hips contain 20–40 times more vitamin C than an orange, making them a powerful natural source of immune-boosting nutrients. Beyond its nutritional value, understanding the full scope of prairie rose benefits reveals a native plant with significant ecological, medicinal, and ornamental uses.

According to the USDA Plants Database, the hollyleaf cherry (Prunus ilicifolia) is a dense, evergreen shrub native to California. In addition to its attractive foliage, what is the benefit of hollyleaf cherry, and why is it so valuable for both home gardens and natural ecosystems?

As a key component of North American tallgrass prairies, Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans) offers a powerful array of benefits for the environment and its inhabitants, a fact recognized by state and federal conservation efforts.

In a surprising twist for a plant named after a fruit, the berries of the common winterberry (*Ilex verticillata*) are toxic to humans and pets. While the vibrant red berries provide a stunning visual display in winter gardens and are a critical food source for birds, they are not a nutritional food source for people, and consuming them can cause serious illness.

Native American tribes have long utilized buffaloberry for its versatile properties, using the tart berries for food, medicine, and dye. This hardy, nitrogen-fixing shrub is not only a source of sustenance but also plays a crucial ecological role in North American ecosystems, providing food and shelter for wildlife. Today, the plant's diverse applications continue to be of interest to foragers, naturalists, and gardeners alike.