Dotted blazing star
(Liatris
punctata)
Blazing star and its close relatives were once
used by Native Americans to treat kidney diseases
and have long been cultivated in European gardens
as bedding plants and for cut flowers.
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June grass
(Koeleria
gracilis)
Common throughout mixed-grass prairies, this
grass begins its growth in early spring. By July,
growth of this cool season plant is completed and
the grass goes dormant until fall or the following
spring. It is commonly found along trails in
mixed-grass prairie.
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Blue grama
(Bouteloua
gracilis)
Blue grama is easily recognized by its seed head
that resembles a toothbrush. This warm season grass
is very drought hardy and will out compete taller
grasses in times of low moisture.
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Little bluestem
(Schizachyrium
scoparium)
This vigorous, long-lived warm season species is
found throughout mixed-grass prairies in Canada and
the United States. It is highly palatable and
nutritious for livestock and wildlife. In autumn,
little bluestem turns the prairies a beautiful
reddish purple.
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Purple coneflower
(Echinacea
angustifolia)
The prickly centre of the purple coneflower
gives this plant its scientific name - Echinacea -
from the Greek word meaning hedgehog or sea-urchin.
The root was used by Aboriginals as a painkiller
for toothaches and sore throats.
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