Observations at Contrecoeur

Observations from around Contrecoeur (our property). Zone 6B, central Illinois, USA.

"Weeds"

A photograph of foliage. In the center is a large seven-lobed leaf.

Japanese hops (Humulus japonicus)

Wikipedia. Quickly took over a big pile of topsoil. Considered invasive. Added 2025-06-04.

A close-up photograph of hop trefoil interspersed with long leaves of grass. The hop trefoil has three leaflets and yellow flowerheads.

Hop trefoil (Trifolium campestre)

Wikipedia. Found all around the property, but looking quite striking along the trail paths right now (early June). Will pay attention to how long it sticks around.

A close-up of the leaves of an overcup oak tree. The leaves are longer and, true to the latin name, somewhat lyre-shaped.

Overcup oak (Quercus lyrata)

Wikipedia. We may have others but there is a prominent example on the hill just behind our barn. We have begun planting fruit trees in that area, attempting to keep enough distance from the oak that they will not be overshaded as they grow. Fun to know that the "lyrata" of its species name is a reference to its leaves' lyre-like shape.

A closeup of an ironweed plant. Numerous bright purple poofs sit atop a series of stems that seem to extend from one central stem. All around is green foliage, but out of focus.

Missouri ironweed (Vernonia missurica)

Wikipedia. Probably just popped up in the last few days. Spotted by the great oak, but then saw another example down by the creekbed. Added 2025-08-10.

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Note History

This note was first created on Jun 4, 2025. It was last edited on Aug 10, 2025.

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