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Heal-All (Prunella vulgaris): This little plant grows in all types of habitats from ancient forests to cities. It is considered to be a versatile medicine, giving rise to its common name. It usually grows in small patches and flowers in mid-summer. The native species (Prunella lanceolata) in these woods differs slightly from the city species
| Goldmyer Hotsprings was run as a very small resort in the early 1900’s and the meadow was created as the original lodge site. You may see several species of non-native plants that were brought in such as lily-of-the-valley and daffodils. The mountain you see through the trees is Lundin Peak and this peak can actually be accessed from the Commonwealth Basin trail at Snoqualmie Pass. As you move through the meadow you will notice the extensive varieties of plants that grow in an open clearing in the woods. At the far end of the meadow you will see the old water wheel that was used to generate electricity at the original lodge. Our goal is to one day have our present cabin powered by the creek also. The creek you hear is called the Burntboot. There are many theories about the name of this creek, perhaps you can come up with your own guess! |
Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina, pictured below): This showy fern grows well in open sunlit areas such as this meadow. It can reach heights of six feet or more but dies back every fall. The two other tall ferns you see around here are Bracken Fern (Pteridium aquilinum, pictured at right) and Sword Fern (Polystichum munitum). Notice how the Bracken Fern has a central stalk and the fronds grow out of it. The Sword Fern is a common evergreen used extensively for landscaping
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Crimson Columbine (Aquilegia formosa): Hummingbirds, butterflies and bumblebees are very attracted to this beautiful flower which looks like a shooting star. Its long flowering season, from June to September, coincides with the species it depends on for pollination. There are many cultivated varieties of columbine but the magnificent ones you see in this meadow are the only native variety in these ancient forests.
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Cow Parsnip (Heracleum lanatum): This giant member of the carrot family unfortunately resembles another poisonous member of the carrot family, the water hemlock. The flower umbels are popular helipads for all kinds of insects. The flowers have a rather foul smell, but the seeds have a distinctively pleasant aroma.
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