February 2019.

In Northaven Park, we don’t need the groundhog to make a prediction. Early signs of spring, though subtle and small, are easily visible on a walk along the greenbelt. 

The American Elm, one of the first trees to flower here, produces an abundance of small white flowers that provide food for migratory birds, such as the American Goldfinch. Neighbors with feeders in their yards may have noticed a drop in numbers of the finches in attendance; possibly explained by the emergence of flowers like those of the elm. These flowers can be seen on the lower branches of Elms that have sprung up along the banks of the creek.

Also look for small clumps of Grape Hyacinth, a small tubular plant. Its not a native, but seems to have naturalized in places along the creek. The flowers are said to resemble small urns. 

Also starting to naturalize are the shoots of bulb flowers planted near the Alta Vista Bridge and in Cox Lane Park by NPNA’s Park Beautification Team.  

Perhaps one of the most subtle flowers, or pollen cones, is that of the Eastern Red Cedar, which at first glance appears to be just new growth of the foliage.  

We know that it may yet snow or freeze in February or March, but we also know that surely Spring will come.

Below: 1. Daffodils. 2. Grape Hyacinth. 3. Eastern Red Cedar

Vince Punarov, Creek Leader