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photo: Forest Preserve District of DuPage County |
Things to See: Flowers and Plants
Where to see native flowers and plants in Chicago Wilderness:
Chicago Botanic Garden
Located at 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe, IL
The Chicago Botanic Garden features three native habitats. McDonald Woods is home to 290 species of native plants, 20 species of mammals and 118 species of birds. The garden also offers views of prairie habitats and restored wetlands along the Skokie River. Activities at the garden include nature walks, tours, birding, classes, conferences and volunteer opportunities. For more information, call (847) 835-5440.
Cressmoor Prairie State Nature Preserve
Located on Lake Park Avenue, ΒΌ mile south of U.S. 6 in Hobart, IN
This 38-acre property is the largest preserved remnant of black soil prairie in Indiana. It features prairie grasses that grow up to nine feet tall. It contains a variety of wildflowers, including eight species of milkweed, seven types of goldenrod and eight types of aster. This is a good site for hiking, birding, nature study and photography. For more information, call (219) 879-4725.
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
Located near Chesterton/Porter, IN
This national lakeshore, located on Lake Michigan near Porter, Indiana, has the third highest number of plant species in the National Park system and dunes dating back to Lake Michigan's birth. Visitor features include foot trails, horse trails, bicycle trails, parking, toilets, a visitor center and a picnic area. For more information, call (219) 926-7561, ext. 225.
The Morton Arboretum
Located at 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL
The Morton Arboretum offers opportunities to experience several types of Chicago area ecosystems. The Woodland Trail spans an oak savanna remnant and is a splendid place to view spring wildflowers. The arboretum's Schulenberg Prairie contains more than 400 species of native plants. For more information, call (630) 968-0074.
Sand Ridge Nature Center
15891 Paxton Avenue, South Holland, IL
This site features spring wildflowers, prickly pear cactus and other sandy soil species. Ancient sand and gravel bars can be seen along the trails and at nature center buildings. Four trails, totaling nearly four miles, are maintained for hiking. For more information, call (708) 868-0606.
Additional resources
- Wild Ones Natural Landscapers
This non-profit organization is dedicated to sharing information about natural landscaping techniques. Natural landscaping can benefit biodiversity and the environment. Wild Ones sponsors monthly meetings, field trips, garden walks, and publishes a newsletter. For more information, call (877) 394-9453.
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