Redwood Sorrel

Redwood Sorrel

by | Jan 28, 2010 | Farm Blog, Flora and Fauna, Native Plants, Natives

When I first saw large clover-like leaves emerging on one of our eastern slopes shortly after we moved here, I was fearful that we may have the moderately invasive Oxalis pes-caprae on the property.  However, much to my surprise, and delight, this clover-like plant...
California Maidenhair

California Maidenhair

by | Jan 19, 2010 | Farm Blog, Flora and Fauna, Native Plants, Natives

Our wet winter is favoring the growth of a different species of fern here at Curbstone Valley, the California Maidenhair Fern, Adiantum jordanii.   This is the first time we’ve noticed this fern on the property, but until recently we’ve been in an...
Western Sword Fern

Western Sword Fern

by | Nov 30, 2009 | Farm Blog, Flora and Fauna, Native Plants, Natives

There is no better start to the day than the sense of calm and serenity one feels when walking through mature redwood groves, with large colonies of Western Sword Ferns (Polystichum munitum) growing at their feet, backlit by the early morning sun. The Western Sword...
California Honeysuckle

California Honeysuckle

by | Sep 20, 2009 | Farm Blog, Flora and Fauna, Native Plants, Natives

Working on the hillside slope yesterday, just above where our orchard will be planted, some striking red berries caught my eye dangling about 20 feet over my head from the top of a small oak tree.  We’ve seen evidence of this vine on the hillside before, but...