Tag: Oregon

Oregon, nestled in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, captivates with its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. From the rugged coastline adorned with dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches to the lush, emerald forests that cloak much of its interior, Oregon boasts natural beauty that enchants visitors and residents alike. The Cascade Range cuts through the state, offering majestic peaks and pristine lakes, while the Willamette Valley is renowned for its fertile soils, ideal for agriculture and wine production. Cities like Portland and Eugene embody a blend of creativity, sustainability, and outdoor enthusiasm, making Oregon a haven for artists, outdoor adventurers, and those seeking a slower pace amidst breathtaking scenery.

Creek Dogwood (Cornus sericea)

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Cornus sericea, commonly known as Redosier Dogwood, Red Twig Dogwood, or American Dogwood, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It belongs to the family Cornaceae and is known for its striking red stems, especially visible in the winter, which provide ornamental value. This report explores the botanical characteristics, habitat, ecological significance, and uses of Cornus sericea.

Creek Dogwood (Cornus sericea)
Creek Dogwood (Cornus sericea)

Botanical Characteristics

Morphology

  • Stems and Bark – The most distinctive feature of Cornus sericea is its bright red stems, which are particularly vibrant in young twigs. The bark is smooth and can be greenish-red in younger branches, turning grayish-brown with age.
  • Leaves – The leaves are opposite, simple, and ovate to lanceolate, with a length of 5-12 cm. They have a smooth margin and are characterized by prominent venation. In the fall, the leaves turn a variety of colors including red, purple, and orange.
  • Flowers – The flowers are small, creamy-white, and arranged in flat-topped clusters called cymes. Each flower has four petals and blooms from late spring to early summer.
  • Fruit – The fruit is a small, white to bluish-white drupe, typically maturing in late summer. These drupes are an important food source for various bird species.

Growth and Reproduction

Cornus sericea can grow up to 1.5-4 meters in height and spreads through both seeds and vegetative means. It readily forms thickets by sending up new shoots from its root system. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soils but can tolerate a range of soil types including wet, clay soils.

Habitat and Distribution

Geographic Range

Cornus sericea is widespread across North America, from Alaska and Newfoundland south to New Mexico and Virginia. It thrives in a variety of habitats including wetlands, stream banks, and forest edges.

Environmental Preferences

This shrub prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in moist, well-drained soils. It is often found in riparian zones, wetlands, and along the edges of lakes and rivers. Cornus sericea is adaptable to different soil types, including clay and sandy soils, and can tolerate seasonal flooding.

Ecological Significance

Wildlife Habitat

  • Birds – The berries of Cornus sericea are a crucial food source for many bird species, including American robins, cedar waxwings, and woodpeckers. The dense thickets provide excellent cover and nesting sites for birds.
  • Mammals – Small mammals, such as rabbits and beavers, feed on the bark and stems. The plant’s dense growth offers shelter for various small animals.

    Erosion Control

    Due to its extensive root system, Cornus sericea is effective in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion, especially along riverbanks and slopes. It is often used in riparian restoration projects for this reason.

    Uses

    Ornamental Use

    Cornus sericea is widely planted as an ornamental shrub for its vibrant red stems, which provide winter interest in gardens and landscapes. It is also used in hedges, windbreaks, and as a natural screen.

    Traditional and Medicinal Uses

    Indigenous peoples of North America have historically used Cornus sericea for various purposes. The bark and stems were used in basket weaving, and the plant had medicinal applications, such as treating colds, fevers, and diarrhea.

    Conservation and Restoration

    Due to its ability to thrive in wet environments and stabilize soil, Cornus sericea is utilized in wetland restoration and conservation projects. It helps in maintaining biodiversity and improving water quality by filtering runoff.

    Conclusion

    Cornus sericea is a versatile and ecologically significant plant with wide-ranging benefits for wildlife, soil stabilization, and ornamental use. Its adaptability to different environments and its role in supporting biodiversity make it an important species in North American flora. Conservation and utilization of this shrub can contribute to sustainable environmental management and restoration efforts.

    This report provides a comprehensive overview of Cornus sericea, highlighting its importance in various ecological and practical contexts. Further research and conservation efforts can enhance our understanding and utilization of this valuable plant species.

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    Edward Lawrence Schieffelin

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    Edward Lawrence Schieffelin, a rugged and determined prospector, carved his name in the annals of American history as the man who discovered silver and founded the legendary mining town of Tombstone, Arizona. Born on May 7, 1847, in the small town of Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, Schieffelin embodied the spirit of adventure and exploration that characterized the American West during the late 19th century. From his humble beginnings as a prospector to his eventual success in striking it rich, this biography delves into the life and achievements of Ed Schieffelin, shedding light on his extraordinary journey and his enduring legacy in the American mining industry.

    Edward Lawrence Schieffelin
    Ed Schieffelin

    Early Years and Adventurous Spirit

    Edward Lawrence Schieffelin, known as Ed, was born into a family of eight siblings. Raised in a modest household, he developed a strong work ethic and a sense of wanderlust from an early age. Ed’s adventurous spirit led him to leave his hometown in pursuit of opportunities out West when he was just a teenager. Inspired by stories of the California Gold Rush, Schieffelin set out on a quest for fortune and adventure into California, Death Valley, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona.

    In 1877, at the age of 30, Schieffelin arrived in Arizona Territory. The region was known for its hostile terrain, inhabited by hostile Native American tribes and infested with outlaws. It was an untamed and dangerous land, yet Schieffelin saw the untapped potential hidden within the rocky mountains and rugged landscapes.

    The Discovery of Tombstone

    Undeterred by the challenges, Schieffelin embarked on a solo prospecting expedition in the southeastern part of Arizona Territory. Despite being warned by soldiers at the nearby Fort Huachuca about the “all he would find would be his own tombstone,” Schieffelin remained undeterred and ventured into the wilderness.

    After several months of searching and enduring hardships, Schieffelin struck silver in 1877. His find, located in the area that would become Tombstone, Arizona, ignited a rush of prospectors and speculators. Schieffelin named the mining district “Tombstone” in response to a friend,  Al Sieber who predicted he would only find his own tombstone.

    As the news of Schieffelin’s discovery spread, the town of Tombstone boomed with activity. Miners, gamblers, and businessmen flocked to the area, transforming the once desolate region into a thriving mining town. Schieffelin, known for his eccentric personality and adventurous spirit, became a legend in his own right.

    The Legacy of Tombstone

    Tombstone, under Schieffelin’s influence, rapidly grew into a bustling frontier town. The rich silver veins of the area attracted numerous mining companies, turning Tombstone into one of the wealthiest towns in the West. The town quickly developed essential infrastructure, including saloons, theaters, banks, and a newspaper, the “Tombstone Epitaph,” which chronicled the tumultuous events that unfolded in the region.

    Schieffelin, though he had made his fortune, continued to lead the life of a prospector, always searching for the next big strike. However, he faced his fair share of challenges and setbacks. The mines faced legal disputes, water shortages, and labor conflicts, which took a toll on the town’s prosperity. Despite the challenges, Tombstone remained a symbol of the American frontier spirit and resilience.

    Ed Schieffelin Monument

    A 25 ft tall monument is erected near to spot of Ed Shieffelin original claim in Tombstone. The monument represents the type of marker a miner makes in claiming a strike. A plaque on the monument reads, “Ed Shieffelin, died May 12, 1897, aged 49 years, 8 months. A dutiful son, a faithful husband, a kind brother, and a true friend.” The monument is located just to the East of Ed Schieffelin Monument road, north of the town of Tombstone.

    Raven ( Corvus corax )

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    The Raven ( Corvus corax ) is one of eight subspecies of Ravens distributed throughout the world. Also known as western or northern raven, this large black bird is a member of the Corvidae family of birds which also contains crows, jays and magpies. This bird is a rather large and features solid black feathers which offers a dramatic and ominous appearance.

    Raven ( Corvus corax ) sitting on a coral fence at the Grand Canyon Western Ranch.
    Raven ( Corvus corax ) sitting on a coral fence at the Grand Canyon Western Ranch.

    The raven is a large bird, known to average 25 inches in length and 2.6 pounds in weight and heaviest of the passerine or perching birds. This species is renowned for its intelligence and commonly used to test animal problem solving ability. This species has a world wide distribution and can thrive in a large variety of climates. The bird is an opportunistic omnivore finding sources of nutrition, feeding on carrion insects, grains, berries, fruit, small animals, other birds, and food waste. The are common features around campgrounds for the food sources left by human activity.

    Range map of the Common Raven
    Range map of the Common Raven

    The raven has a long history with man in culture, literature and superstition. Many Native American tribes cultures regard the bird as a trickster or a cosmic messenger. Edgar Allen Poe’s infamous poem forever linked this bird with ominous overtones and symbolism for in western culture. The National Football Team even has a football team named for this special mischievous bird.

    Field Guide Description

    “Large with a long, heavy bill and long wedge-shaped tail. Most common call is a low drawn-out croak. Larger than the Chihuahuan Raven; note thicker, shaggier throat feathers, and that nasal bristles to not extend as far our on the larger bill. Range: Found in a variety of habitats, including mountains, deserts, coastal areas. Numerous in western and northern part of range; uncommon and local, but spreading in Appalachians.”

    Field Guide to the Birds of North America, Third Edition, pg 318

    Classification

    KingdomAnimalia
    PhylumChordata
    ClassAves
    OrderPasseriformes
    FamilyCorvidae
    Genus Corvus
    Speciescorax

    References

    Stellars Jay ( Cyanocitta stelleri )

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    The Stellars Jay ( Cyanocitta stelleri ) is a common character found in the forests of the western half of the United States. The bird is an opportunistic omnivore and closely related to the Blue Jay. The Stellars Jay has a black crested head and a vibrant blue body which is commonly about between eleven and twelve inches long. This bird has a lot of variations depending on location.

    Stellars Jay ( Cyanocitta stelleri )
    Stellars Jay ( Cyanocitta stelleri )

    The Stellars Jay is commonly, mistakenly, called a “Blue Jay” in the Pacific Northwest. The Stellar, however, is a distinct species from the Blue Jay ( Cyanocitta cristata ). The major differentiating characteristic is the Blue Jay does not have a crest.

    Steller's Jay (Cyanocitta stelleri), version 2.0. In The Birds of North America (P. G. Rodewald, Editor). Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY, USA.
    Steller’s Jay (Cyanocitta stelleri), version 2.0. In The Birds of North America (P. G. Rodewald, Editor). Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY, USA.

    This bird commonly feeds upon seeds, nuts and acorns. Speaking from first hand information, they also love unsalted peanuts. The will also eat insects and other small invertebrates, including mammals. They are also known to raid other birds nests and can be very aggressive with other birds.

    Stellars Jay breed in monogamous pairs and a clutch of eggs is typically 3 – 5 in number. Both parents are active is feeding the young.

    Distribution

    The Stellar’s Jay is a common bird located primarily in pine-oak woodlands and coniferous forests. The dark blue and black coloring of the species helps aid in camouflage in the shadows of the forest.

    The species is fairly bold and aggressive in its behavior and it is quite common to encounter them around campgrounds and picnic areas.

    This animal is found across most of the western states. The bird is known to cross breed with the Blue Jay when their ranges overlap.

    The range of this bird is as far north as Alaska and to the south in Nicaragua. The Eastern boundary in the United States for this bird is Colorado and New Mexico.

    A Stellar's Jay ( Cyanocitta stelleri ) stealing peanuts in Big Bear, California
    A Stellar’s Jay ( Cyanocitta stelleri ) stealing peanuts in Big Bear, California

    Field Guide Description

    “Crested; dark blue and black overall. Some races, including nominate from coast to northern Rockies are darker backed; have blueish streaks on forehead. Central and southern Rockies race, C.s. macrolopha, have long crest, paler back, white streaks on forehead, white mark over eye; largest race, carlottae, resident of Queen Charlotte Island off British Columbia, is almost entirely black above. Where ranges overlap in the eastern Rockies, Stellar’s Jay occasionally hybridizes with Blue Jay. Calls include a series of shack or shooka notes and other calls suggestive of Red-tailed Hawks. Range: Common in pine-oak woodlands and coniferous forests. Bold and aggressive; often scavenges at campgrounds and picnic areas. Casual winter visitor of lower elevations of the Great Basin, southern California and southwestern deserts.”

    Field Guide to the Birds of North America, Third Edition, pg 312

    Classification

    KingdomAnimalia
    PhylumChordata
    ClassAves
    OrderPasseriformes
    FamilyCorvidae
    Genus Cyanocitta
    Speciescristata

    References

    Western Wallflower (Erysimum capitatium)

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    A member of the mustard family, the Western Wallflower ( Erysimum capitatium ) is a brightly colored yellow flower which is quite common across the western United States, including Arizona, Utah and Nevada.. In European countries, the wallflower earned its name from a habit of growing on… you guess it, walls. More specifically stone, masonry or wooden fences. The name was transposed to the American species despite the fact the plants have no preference for walls.

    Western Wallflower (Erysimum capitatium)
    Western Wallflower (Erysimum capitatium)

    Scientific Taxonomy and Categorization

    • Kingdom: Plantae
    • Clades: Tracheophytes, Angiosperms, Eudicots, Rosids
    • Order: Brassicales
    • Family: Brassicaceae (mustard or cabbage family)
    • Genus: Erysimum
    • Species: Erysimum capitatum (Douglas ex Hook.) Greene (binomial name)

    The species belongs to the tribe Erysimeae within Brassicaceae. It is a dicot angiosperm (eudicot) herb. Flora of North America recognizes two main varieties: E. c. var. capitatum (often called western or sanddune wallflower) and E. c. var. purshii (Pursh’s wallflower). Numerous synonyms exist due to high morphological variability and past taxonomic confusion with E. asperum (prairie rocket). Chromosome number is 2n = 36. The plant is categorized as a biennial or short-lived perennial herb (sometimes behaving as a winter annual in southern deserts), with a taproot and variable growth form depending on elevation and habitat.

    Detailed Plant Description

    Erysimum capitatum is a highly variable, taprooted herb that produces one to several erect, leafy stems (0.5–12 dm / 1.5–12 ft tall) arising from a basal rosette. Stems are often branched distally, coarse, and covered in stiff, appressed, forked or branched (malpighiaceous/dolabriform) hairs. The plant leaks a pungent, watery juice when damaged.

    Basal leaves are simple, alternate, spatulate to narrowly oblanceolate or linear (2–27 cm long × 3–30 mm wide), with prominent midribs and margins ranging from entire to dentate or denticulate. Stem leaves are smaller, sessile, and angled upward. Leaves are typically deep green and hairy (rayed hairs vary by variety: mostly 3–7-rayed in var. capitatum; 2–3-rayed in var. purshii). Plants develop short to elongate caudices clothed in old leaf bases.

    Growth habit and life cycle show plasticity: low-elevation plants are often taller, less branched biennials and more drought-resistant; high-elevation (alpine) plants are dwarf, multi-stemmed perennials. The species is early-seral, thriving in disturbed sites, and exhibits semelparity (single reproductive event) in dry lowlands versus iteroparity (multiple events) in moist high-elevation habitats.

    Detailed Flower Description

    Flowers are perfect, arranged in congested terminal racemes that elongate in fruit. Each flower is 2.5–3.8 cm wide with four distinct, rounded petals arranged in a cross shape (typical of Brassicaceae). Petals are usually bright yellow to orange (occasionally lavender, maroon, red, white, or purple in certain populations or high elevations); var. capitatum tends toward orange-yellow, var. purshii toward yellow. Flowers have four sepals, six stamens (tetradynamous: four long, two short), a stout style (up to 3 mm), and a superior ovary. They are fragrant and bloom primarily April–August (as early as January in southern ranges or to September).

    Fruits are linear, narrow siliques (3.5–15 cm long × 1.3–3.3 mm wide), upright or nearly parallel to the stem, four-sided or slightly flattened, with prominent midveins. Each valve contains 40–80 seeds; siliques dehisce at maturity. Seeds are small, oblong (~1.5 mm), lightweight, and winged in var. capitatum. Pollination is required for full seed set; visitors include bees, flies, butterflies, and beetles.

    Habitat

    The western wallflower occupies diverse dry, open sites from valley bottoms to alpine summits. It prefers well-drained, sandy, gravelly, or rocky soils with low organic matter and fertility. Substrates include sandstone, granite, basalt, limestone, serpentine, dunes, and talus. It occurs in desert grasslands/shrublands, chaparral, pinyon-juniper woodlands, aspen groves, montane meadows, forest openings, sagebrush flats, and alpine tundra. Elevation range is sea level to 13,120 ft (4,000 m), with var. capitatum generally lower (0–5,600 ft) and var. purshii higher (3,280–13,120 ft). It tolerates full sun, drought, and disturbance (roadsides, burns, grazed areas).

    Range and Distribution

    Erysimum capitatum is one of the most widespread native North American wallflowers. Its range spans western North America from Alaska and Yukon Territory south through British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and into northern Mexico (Chihuahua, Sonora, etc.). It extends eastward across the Great Plains to the Great Lakes region (Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, etc.) with scattered disjunct populations as far as Ohio and Tennessee. Var. capitatum has the broadest distribution; some California varieties (e.g., var. angustatum) are narrowly endemic and endangered. It has been introduced in parts of New England. Overall, it is considered secure (NatureServe).

    This adaptable species plays ecological roles as a nectar source for pollinators (including butterflies), larval host plant, and early colonizer of disturbed or post-fire sites. It also provides forage for wildlife such as elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and small mammals.

    Other Names

    • Coast wallflower
    • Douglas’ wallflower
    • Sanddune wallflower
    • Prairie rocket

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