This is the time of year to see spring ephemeral wildflowers. A variety of common species will be in flower in April and May, such as Caltha palustris (marsh marigold) which can be seen in abundance at the entrance to Philbrick-Cricenti Bog in New London. Several of the state-rare species that the NH Natural Heritage Bureau tracks are spring ephemerals, such as Ranunculus fascicularis (early buttercup). A less common species is Cypripedium acaule (pink lady's slipper) - this orchid is not rare, but several varieties of yellow lady's slippers are. Cornus canadensis (bunchberry) is an example of a very common woodland species that flowers this time of year. All three are pictured here.
