Rolandvue,2nd Week August: Fireweed (Erechtites hieraciifolius)

Another quiet week as far as blooming plants.  Fireweed is common along Cloverlea and Rolandvue.  There are a number of pioneer species, early to appear in cleared areas, which are called fireweed so another argument for using the latin name. Features to notice are the serrated leaf margin,often lobed, alternate , simple, attached to a thick stem.  It is in the lettuce family, native to North America.

The seeds are spread by the wind, but it also grows  in clumps with multiple stems.  There is a thick clump at the corner of Wagner and Rolandvue. This area has been cut and possibly treated chemically encouraging the fireweed.

Despite its lettuce association it is not commonly mentioned as a foraging prize.  Peterson calls it an acquired taste, but suggests use in salads and as a cooked green.  Opinions vary  as to the strong odor or the perfume.  For some it is a famine food only and for others a delicacy( Eat the Weeds).

Fireweed or American burnweed common this week