Lurie Garden on Instagram: "Flocks of juvenile red-winged blackbirds have been delighting visitors on crisp fall mornings, stopping by the garden as part of their migration journey to southern states. At this stage of their development, the males have not fully developed their signature red and yellow bands. They feast on the seeds of Echinacea sp., Sporobolus heterolepis, and other perennials — a vital fuel source for their travels. These young birds remind us that even common species need supp

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens on Instagram: "We asked our horticulture staff to tell us about their favorite native plants growing at the Gardens. Delaney shares about Sporobolus heterolepis, which is growing at the Great Lawn. Also known as prairie dropseed, this is a great grass to add to meadow plantings, and adds gentle movement with it's airy flowers!"

We asked our horticulture staff to tell us about their favorite native plants growing at the Gardens. Delaney shares about Sporobolus heterolepis, which is growing at the Great Lawn. Also known as prairie dropseed, this is a great grass to add to meadow plantings, and adds gentle movement with it's airy flowers! | Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens