The magical trout lily blooms in the Spring Creek Forest Preserve

 
Two tours Saturday by Tom Frey, Garland Parks and Recreation Department, and by members of the Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest highlighted the seldom seen Trout Lily (Erythronium albidum) and the unique character of the preserve. The first tour was not crowded, maybe because the temperature was not much above freezing. Mr Frey began the tour with a description of the very special Trout Lily, showing that much of the plant is underground.
 
The Trout Lily blooms as early as mid-February. The entire blooming period will only be a few short weeks. It is highly selective of its environment, demanding moist, loose, loamy soil. Our Trout Lilies are the white variety, which range from Nova Scotia across the Appalachians and as far west as ... well, here, North Central Texas. The blooms will not appear until the plant has matured, after about seven years.
 
Spring Creek Forest Preserve is part of the Dallas County Trail and Preserve System but is not maintained by the county. Maintenance is through a special arrangement with the Garland Parks and Recreation Department and the Preservation Society. The society has regular meetings and guest speakers that address the special nature of the preserve and North Texas. Work days and other events outdoors give plenty of opportunities to see, besides the trees and other plants, the wide range of birds and other fauna common to the area. Follow the link above to join and to receive regular updates from Barbara Baynham, Society president.