One of the unique things about Alaska is the mad dash that the vegetation goes through during the 4 months between freezing temperatures. It seems they are all saying, “Bloom! Bloom! Make seeds! Make seeds!” as they appear, peak, and then quickly turn to seed pods. We marvel at several waves of color as each variety comes into its season.
Vetch is one of the earliest color waves on the roadsides. It’s a particular favorite munchie for moose.
Yes, the common dandelion – but they are so bright and cheerful!
The wild roses are in great profusion this year; amazing how thick! The raspberries, which are related, also seem to be blooming thickly, so we’re hoping for a good harvest not only of rose hips but raspberries!
Wild rose
Labrador tea. This grows plentifully on our property, has a heady lemony fragrance, and is high in antioxidants (used in tea).
Dogwood
Fireweed: it’s can almost feel like the end of summer already to see the blooms begin to appear. Fireweed is like our hourglass; the buds bloom moving up the stalk, and once the last ones are gone, it is 6 weeks until the snow flies.
Millers in Alaska 