weeds or wildflowers?

a photo collection of common weeds and wild flowers that are considered weeds to help you identify just what is growing in your garden.  all photos are property of alisa huntsman unless otherwise noted.

white clover-while considered a weed, it is a beneficial nectar plant for bees and the source for clover honey.

bloodroot, sanguinaria canadensis, a beautiful native wild flower.

 wild mustard

 ground ivy


 trillium-a true native wildflower found in wooded areas during the spring


 vetch

 field pansy-tiny and delicate but still one of my favorites

native red bud trees-the blossoms are edible!

 buttercup

 spring beauties-another native wildflower that can be found in your lawn

dandelion-the bane of anyone seeking a perfect lawn.  however, they are one of the first flowers to open in spring and provide a nectar for bees when there isn't much to choose from.

bittercress


 buttercup

red dead nettle, also called purple dead nettle
while considered a weed, it is also a beneficial nectar plant for bees in the late winter and early spring and the leaves can be cooked and eaten as well


 speedwell, also called veronica speedwell

 henbit, another beneficial nectar plant for bees in the late winter and early spring.  this member of the mint family is also edible-the leaves can be eaten raw or cooked.

 chickweed
another weed that is also an edible plant

 chickweed flowers with violets
violets are edible too!  the flowers can be candied, added to salads or used as edible garnishes while the leaves can be added to salads  as well.

 bermuda grass

yellow wood sorrel