Wild in Dufferin

September 23, 2015 · 0 Comments

There are many different wild flowers in Dufferin County. Last weekend, while out and about, I came across several which I think are beautiful and have found they can also be useful.
First there was wild asparagus. In the wild it can grow in bunches of thirty or can appear as a solo artist. Depending on weather and soil conditions stalks can vary in size. Whether in bunches or alone, it is one of nature’s best springtime treats. When you find asparagus it can be bent slightly and it will break off at the point where the stock loses its flexibility. Usually below that point the plant will prove tougher and less tender to eat. When hunting for wild asparagus it’s a good idea to wear long pants and stay covered as poison ivy tends to grow in similar locations.
Next, I came across some Jewelweed. Also known as ‘Touch-me-not’ because its post will fling out seeds at the slightest contact. This plant is wild and is known to attract Ruby-throated Hummingbirds due to its orange-spotted flower. It’s said that by placing the juice from the stem of Jewelweed on a fresh mosquito bite for 15 to 20 minutes, the itching stops and the bite doesn’t swell. Jewelweed’s juice also relieves bee and wasp stings, although it doesn’t always cure them completely. It’s also good for warts, bruises, and fungal skin infections such as athletes foot and ringworm. It is also helpful for nettle sings, minor burns, cuts, eczema, acne, sores and skin irritations. If you accidentally touch poison ivy and apply Jewelweed juice to the affected area before the rash appears, you probably won’t get the rash.
Finally, I saw Queen Anne’s Lace. One of my favourite flowers from my youth, as I often gave my grandmother bouquets of this pretty flower. Not surprisingly this flower originated in Europe and was named for Queen Anne. It is also know as wild carrot and can be found growing alongside roadsides and in fields almost anywhere in North America. Considered and invasive or noxious weed some consider this an attractive flower. This is a biannual plant that can grow four to five feet in the right conditions. Medicinally, it has been used as an antiseptic and the seeds have been used to help wash out urinary stone while the roots of this plant have been used as antacids.
Next time you’re out in Dufferin County look around at all the wonderful growth in the area as each and every plant has a purpose.

By Michelle Janzen