The natural environment and history of Kalispell’s West Valley area
By Skip Via
skip@westvalleynaturalists.org
Although most people think of orchids as tropical plants, Montana is home to 31 species of orchids, almost all of which are found in the western part of the state. In the West Valley area of the Flathead Valley, the orchid you are most likely to encounter is the beautiful Calypso orchid. “Most likely” in this case does not mean common–they’re still a rare treat to encounter on a hike.
Continue Reading →by Pat Jaquith
pat@westvalleynaturalists.org
An easy walk of one-half mile will put you in view of a wildflower garden worthy of the trip! These are a few of the flowers you may find:
Continue Reading →By Skip Via
skip@westvalleynaturalists.org
Rocky Mountain beeplant is native to the valley, although I seem to rarely encounter one. They are annuals, but they can grow up to 5 feet in a season. They are in the cleome family (Cleome serrulata) and are often cultivated in gardens. They are one of the most visually striking wildflowers in the area, as you will see.
Continue Reading →By Skip Via
skip@westvalleynaturalists.org
One of the less common—and certainly one of the most unusual—flowering plants you might encounter in the valley is the spotted coralroot orchid. At first glance it may appear to be dead. It has no leaves, and it can be a deep brown color. But look closely and you’ll find an exceptionally beautiful orchid.
Continue Reading →by Pat Jaquith
pat@westvalleynaturalists.org
There are at least six species of Calochortus lilies in Montana, and we are lucky to host at least three in our area! Anyone walking in our woodlands and open hilltops in June/July, 2020, had many opportunities to see some of them.
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