The tubers of Indian cucumber root (Medeola virginiana) are edible and have a mild, cucumber-like flavor. (Photo courtesy Alan Cressler)
Join Knox-Lincoln Soil & Water Conservation District and Heather McCargo, founder and director of the Wild Seed Project, for a late spring wildflower and native plant walk on Thursday, May 31 from 10-11:30 a.m. through the woods along the Goose River in Camden. The trail begins at the river’s headwaters, winding through hemlock and beech, gradually transitioning to a woodland dominated by oak and pine with an understory of common witch hazel, maple leaf viburnum, and hobblebush.
At this time of year, the canopy is closing in; some spring ephemerals are setting seed and the later spring wildflowers are flowering, including Indian cucumber root, doll’s eyes, partridge berry, wintergreen, Canada mayflower, starflower, and red trillium (in fruit) — and perhaps a few pink lady’s slippers will be blooming!
The fee for this program is $5 for Wild Seed Project members and $7 for others. Space is limited and preregistration is required. Contact the conservation district at 596-2040, cathrine@knox-lincoln.org, or knox-lincoln.org/native-plant-walk and send check to Knox-Lincoln SWCD, 893 West St., Rockport, ME 04856 by Tuesday, May 29. Information about where to meet will be provided with registration.
