Plants grow best where their distinct needs are met. They may require dry, hard-packed soil to thrive in, or conversely, wet & soggy ground. They may flourish in the lowlands or prefer locations high above the tree line. Simply put – they grow best where their living conditions are met. So, in order to find a particular type, you just need to know the environment that it needs, and then search for areas that fit those surroundings.
Vancouver Island boasts a large and diverse population. On the west coast, where it rains heavily, you will find plants that proliferate in wet conditions. Except the southern tip of Vancouver Island, though, where little rain falls.Here you will discover species of desert-like plants and even cacti. On the north coast, you will find some that thrive under adverse light conditions along with wind and snow.
Alpine areas on the coast are known for their stunning abundance of wildflowers, which in late spring/early summer, overwhelm the senses, and can take your breath away with their astonishing beauty.
Algae are a group of simple & primitive organisms, most of which can not carry out photosynthesis. While they contain chlorophyll, similar to land plant species, they do not possess true stems, roots & leaves – the structures that usually characterize ground vegetation. Green algae are found throughout the region.
Coastal BC is fortunate to have a large variety of wild, fruit-bearing plants, vines and shrubs. Some are native, while others are troublesome & invasive. By learning to identify these fruits, you can enjoy food that’s healthy, and free for the taking! Most native fruits & berries are high in antioxidants, vitamins, and other nutrients… Start enjoying the benefits of eating them, soon. We harvest and freeze many of the fruits.
Over the ages, many magical & mystical powers have been associated with plants and the medicines they contain. Plant-based remedies have been revered by some and feared by others. Practitioners in the past, who had knowledge of & performed these healing arts were sometimes put to death by those in power. Today, research has given us a deeper understanding of the chemical & physical qualities leading to the healing properties of these plants.
Moss is an ancient plant that first appeared around 400 million years ago. One of the first plants to grow on land, it is still one of the first plants to return to disturbed soil. Moss is nonvascular, and with no means to transport water throughout the plant, it develops instead, in moist areas. Needing little or no soil, it can grow on bare rock, trees, or buildings. Over a long period of time, moss can create soil by slowly breaking down rock. Holding water like a sponge, allows other plants to access this moisture.
The coast has many poisonous plants inhabiting different areas. It’s vital to know as much as you can about this since many can easily be confused with edible plants. Learn to identify poisonous plants by studying field guides, talking to locals, or joining a nature group in your area. Children and pets are most vulnerable to plant poisoning, as they both like to put things in their mouths. Do your due diligence about toxic vegetation in your area, and their related signs of poisoning.
The coastal region teems with a wide range of grasses, thriving within their specific growing zones. The rainy Pacific coastal area provides ideal conditions for numerous tall, beautiful sedges. Look for diverse species of grass found around lakes, streams, estuaries, and alongside most roads.
Wildflowers flourish vibrantly and profusely throughout the region. l really enjoy hiking mountain trails in late spring, to view the vast variety of plant life. We all delight in the beauty of wildflowers but rarely give thought to the magic at work creating this spectacular show year after year. While annual flowers are grown yearly from seed, perennials can develop and propagate for several years. They too, however, need to produce enough new plants from seed in order to maintain vigorous populations.
The Coastal Region along our coast contains more than 700 species of seaweed and marine grasses (brown algae), that proliferate in our nutrient-rich waters. Seaweed and seagrasses are unlike land plants, which need roots, stems & leaves to deliver nutrients and water throughout their systems. Being in constant contact with water, marine plants naturally obtain the ongoing nourishment they need. Seaweed attaches itself to an anchor with a holdfast, which resembles a root system, but it is specifically used to grip the anchor.
So, go out & explore Vancouver Island, and learn about our extraordinary plants – many edibles, and some, medicinal. You will be amazed at the astounding diversity of plant life here!
See you Sept 8th for the meds walk…10 minutes early 12:50