While watering the turnip green patch the other day, the north wind brought to my olfactory senses the most wonderful aroma. It reminded me of sorghum molasses, but I wasn’t aware of anyone in proximity to me that would have a mule grinding milo or sugarcane and I didn’t notice a plume of smoke where the thick concoction was being “cooked” down. The heavy sweetness just would not go away. Then I thought perhaps this was honey. Though there were several old oaks close by, I didn’t notice working honeybees that would indicate a hive was nearby. I kept watering and sniffing. Then it dawned on me, the fall flora is in full bloom. From where I was standing, I could see goldenrod, baccharis, and a multitude of other aster species showing off. Yes, the seasonal change from summer annuals had given way to an entirely different cast of characters.
Though fall foliage from the forest can be spectacular, let’s not forget about the ornamentals that also complement the change. Species like croton, chrysanthemum, pumpkins, and pomegranates. Does this sound like I am decorating the front steps for Halloween? Perhaps I am, for it’s just around the corner.
Stacey asked me just the other day, which color of the “mums” did I prefer the most? Though the classic yellow is the poster child when it comes to fall décor, there are a multitude of others that are just as noteworthy. Whether it’s the dark maroon or the vivid purples, each have their place when placed around your home or cabin. A member of the family Asteraceae, these plants are native to Eastern Asia and Northeastern Europe. The name “chrysanthemum” is derived from the Ancient Greek chrysos (gold) and anthemon (flower).
The genus was first described by Charles Linnaeus, the father of Binomial Nomenclature, with 14 species. Since then, however, there have been over 20,000 cultivars developed. Cultivation began in Japan as early as the eighth century. The way the flowers were grown and shaped flourished and so did the species. Chrysanthemums entered horticulture in 1798 when Colonel John Stevens imported a variety known as dark purple from England. The introduction was part of an effort to grow attractions within Elysian Fields in Hoboken, New Jersey.
The uses of chrysanthemum are vast. Yellow and white flowers of some species are sometimes boiled to make a tea. The leaves of other species are steamed or boiled and used as greens. Flowers may be added to dishes such as mixian in broth or thick snakemeat soup to enhance the aroma. I’m not so sure about “snakemeat” soup, but times may get tough. Additional uses include that of insecticides. Pyrethrum is economically important as a natural insecticide. The flowers are crushed and the active components, pyrethrins, are extracted and manufactured into very effective insecticides. They are not persistent in the environment and are readily broken down by sunlight. Another attribute of the natural “Py’s” is they are far less toxic to mammals and birds than many synthetic insecticides. Of course, being “organic” expect to pay premium prices for these products.
Another species used for fall décor is the pomegranate, though the shrub that produces this fruit is not what is recognized very often. However, the reddish to purple colored fruit is very recognizable and complements any arrangement whether at your doorstep or on your kitchen table. This novel plant is rich in symbolic and mythological associations in many cultures. The name “pomegranate” is derived from medieval Latin “pomum” meaning apple and “granatum” meaning seeded. Granatum is also derived from Old French “grenat” used in a different meaning that being “of a dark, red color.” Whichever the derivation, each seems appropriate.
The pomegranate fruit husk is red to purple with an outer, hard pericarp. The inner, spongy mescocarp which comprises the inner wall is where the seeds are attached. The number of seeds can vary from 200 to around 1,400. The juice can be sweet or sour. Pomegranate juice is very popular with claims being made by some manufacturers of providing “anti-disease” effects. Despite limited research in this area, marketers have liberally used results from preliminary studies promoting said health benefits. In fact, the FDA issued a warning to one manufacturer for using published literature to make illegal claims of this health “benefit.” In 2016 the US Federal Trade Commission stated this claim could not be made and it was upheld by a US Supreme Court ruling. Whether pomegranate juice provides health benefits or not, I don’t know. I do know it tastes great so why not enjoy!
There are many other species that are very popular this time of year for decorating. Though you can find a vast array of plants at your local nurseries, many can be found in our “natural world” also. Though most of the acres are harvested, cornstalks can still be found if you’re willing to drive a few miles through the countryside. Whether they are tied together to create a bundle, or used to make a scarecrow, corn is a staple when it comes to fall and Halloween. Just the wind rustling through the dried leaves creates a sound that puts one in a “fall” mood.
Let’s not forget about the pumpkins either. They come in all sizes, colors, and varieties. Some are giants that can only be lifted with a crane. Other species can be held in the palm of you hand and may be multi-colored. Don’t hold me to this, but I think I recall a pumpkin grown in Minnesota that weighed almost 2,800 pounds. How would you like to carve a jack-o’-lantern out of that one?
I love riding through the neighborhoods observing the fall décor. Some go all out. Not only will you find the floral species that are altogether fitting, but you may also notice skeletons, goblins, coffins, and more. As mentioned, Halloween is upon us. Some homeowners go as far as implementing a sound system hidden in the flowerbeds that wreak of shrill screams, moans, and whatever else goes with the season.
Even our local businesses join in the fun with decorating. In addition to shops creating a fall atmosphere, many will offer candy treats and apple cider further adding to the time and season upon us. It’s a joy to be out and about with the wonderful weather we are experiencing. Take a few minutes to absorb what the plants, the pumpkins, and the season is offering. Rest assured; it will quickly pass to winter before we know it. By the way, we’re making great progress with the cotton harvest. Thanks for your prayers for good weather.
Until next time enjoy our woods and waters and remember, let’s leave it better than we found it.
