May 18, 2010

Mule’s Ears

This a pretty pic from jimgspokane’s Flickr photostream of Mules Ear’s in the sun.

I see these often in the High Sierras, they are a favorite wildflower in middle summer, and I have always wondered why they have not found their way into the nursery trade like so many other native plants. I imagine Mule’s Ears would be especially suitable for drought tolerant gardens.

Anyone know the answer? Not a pop quiz, I really want to know.

whatever
New York Times -- Company gardens on the rise - PepsiCo, Google, Yahoo, Kohl’s, Best Buy and Toyota jumping on the corporate organic garden trend.

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Mike says:

I’d love to grow Mule’s Ears but they’re one of the species that don’t do well at low altitudes in my experience. I suppose you could call them “habitat specific,” and can only thrive in mountain conditions. I obtained some seeds once and gave up on them.

But they ARE worth trying again and again, like Indian Paintbrush!

Posted on May 19, 2010 at 7:54 am.

Cindy says:

Okay, so that makes sense. I’ve tried Aspen 3 times at low altitude, and they don’t take. The “secret” they say is to plant them in the winter when they’re out like a light.

Mule’s Ears sounds similar. But then I’ve always wondered also if it’s a pH thing. At any rate, persnickety, that’s for sure.

Posted on May 19, 2010 at 8:33 am.

Jill Patterson says:

There are different types of Mule Ears, all appear to be very specific as to habitat requirements. They are beautiful; wish they could grow in my hot low altitude garden.

Posted on May 19, 2010 at 8:34 am.

Cindy says:

And this from Las Pilatas Nursery in San Diego saying, sure we can grow them….

http://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/wyethia-mollis

Posted on May 19, 2010 at 9:42 am.

Jim Gillum says:

Hi there. I figure since I am the taker of this photo I should at least leave a comment. In this area this flower is called balsamroot. The Native Americans used it as a food source when things were short elsewhere. The entire plant is edible but the part above ground is quite bitter tasting. The root however is supposed to be good. Uh, no, never tried it myself!

Posted on May 19, 2010 at 2:30 pm.

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