Found on rocky slopes, in woodlands
Seen blooming in May on the north rim of Canon de Cobre

Oregon Grape is a shrub growing low to the ground with holly-like leaves which turn red in the fall. Clusters of small yellow flowers are followed by blue-black grape-like fruit which is edible. They are used for making jams, jellies, etc. They can also be made into a refreshing lemonade-like beverage. When sugar is added, the fruit juice is similar to grape juice. Oregon grape has a variety of medicinal uses, primarily stemming from the berberine compound found in its roots and bark. It was used by Native Americans to treat loss of appetite and to prevent bloody dysentery. Its current herbal use is mainly in the treatment of gastritis and general digestive weakness, to stimulate the kidney and gallbladder function and to reduce catarrhal problems. It is taken internally in the treatment of psoriasis, syphilis, hemorrhages and impure blood conditions. Externally, it has been used as a gargle for sore throats and as a wash for blurry or bloodshot eyes. The fruit is an excellent gentle and safe laxative. A bright yellow dye is obtained from the inner bark of the stem and roots, violet and dark blue-purple dyes are obtained from the fruit. Source.

​If you trying to identify a different flower then you can check what other flowers bloom this month. If you cannot identify a flower from the website, send a photo and where you took it to [email protected]. Read online for tips.   

Found in dry, sandy areas
Seen blooming in May on CR 142

Painted Milkvetch is another of the many Astragalus species that grow in our area, identified by their seed pod rather than their flower or leaves. It is easily overlooked because it is so small and grows sprawling over the ground only a few inches high with narrow, folded, hairy, gray-green leaflets. The flowers are pink to purple and about ¼ inch long. The seed pods are inflated, mottled red and an inch long. The botanist who named it thought the pattern on the pods was ceramic-like. Traditionally, the Hopi dug up the sweet roots and gave them to children as candy. Source.

​If you trying to identify a different flower then you can check what other flowers bloom this month. If you cannot identify a flower from the website, send a photo and where you took it to [email protected]. Read online for tips.