On March 25, a small group of plant enthusiasts reveled in the botanical delights of the Nomlaki Trail in southwestern Tehama County. The trail meanders through chaparral habitat featuring streams, rock outcrops, serpentine soils, and post-August Complex wildfire regeneration. We identified nearly 90 species of plants on this joint SEA/Shasta Chapter CNPS field trip—and the best is yet to come!
Although fritillaries and fawn lilies were in bloom in abundance, even more were in bud, just waiting for a warmer day to roll out their floral displays. The trail is on exposed slopes with no shade, so plan to get out in the next few weeks to catch the peak of the blooming season while avoiding the intense heat. For directions to the trailhead, see the article, Thomes Gorge Trail, June 19, 2022.
Here are a few of our favorites. All photos by Don Burk. Enjoy! ~Don Burk