A sweet smell wafts through the yard as I walk around to take photographs of natural things that catch my eye. It is the scent of Florida native plant, Dogfennel (Eupatorium capillifolium). Considered a weed by many, it is a goldmine for wildlife in my book. It shakes it feathery green head in a light breeze throughout the year showing a graceful elegance and during the fall it goes into bloom producing white flowers which shimmer in the sun and seem to light the way in the dark. The photo shown here reveals a spider and an ambush bug. It is also a favorite of green lynx spiders who raise their young and grasshoppers where it shows little, if no damage from their taking up residence. Ladybugs seem to find plenty to feed on and the birds always stop by for a morning and afternoon snack of what is held within. It is one of the many overlooked wonders for wildlife.
