Clarkia amoena

These Clarkia amoena, Farwell to Spring, are abundant now in the Berkeley hills. They pop out of the yellow grasses in clusters of 40 or 50 sometimes, usually on east facing slopes, but not exclusively.

Clarki amoena , Sibley, 7/30/10

Another from Mendocino National Forrest

Clarki amoena, Mendocino, 7/22/10

Mushrooms in August?

August is usually not the month you look for mushrooms, but it has been a cool summer in the SF bay area, and there are a few spots that get constant fog. If the conditions are just right, there are some fruitings, and if you are faster than the hungry slugs you might find yourself a meal ( or a stomach ache ).

Amanita muscaria ( Do not eat! ), Sibley, 8/22/10

Boletus edulis, Sibley, 8/22/10

I think we may have another great year for mushrooms!