WILD CHILD: I Spy Mayapples

Have you ever wished you knew just a little more about the plant and animal life you see when you head outside? It can seem intimating when other people seem to recognize things in nature, but all the green leaves seem to look the same. But even experts started learning somewhere, so just start with one thing, and see if you can find it on your next walk. Before you realize it, you will start to recognize the plants and animals you see.

Mayapples, Duck’s foot, or American Mandrake

This easy to identify plant has been dubbed the “umbrella plant” by WILD CHILD regulars, and it is easy to see why.

The large green leaf sits on top of a tall stem and appears in early May. Later in the season, a small fruit or mayapple hangs under the leaf. It usually grows in colonies making it easy to spot a patch.

Despite the name, this plant is poisonous except under very specific conditions, so enjoy examining it, but leave it to grow in its shady home.

Written by Tandy Morton, WILD CHILD Outdoor Playgroup Facilitator