Lake Hodges in Escondido, California.
Don't miss this stunning display of blue blooms around Lake Hodges of 'ceanothus' aka California Wild Lilac this month. Ceanothus flower colors range from a light frosted blue to cobalt blue. This may be a good sign for an increase in the deer population in and around Lake Hodges in Escondido as deer LOVE lilac. As it turns out Ceanothus is a great source of nutrition for deer, specifically mule deer here in north San Diego County. However, the leaves are not as nutritious from late spring to early fall as they are in early spring. Porcupines and quail have also been seen eating stems and seeds of these shrubs. The leaves are a good source of protein and the stems and leaves have been found to contain a high amount of calcium. Plants in this genus can be found on dry and sunny hillsides. Native Americans used the dried leaves of this plant as an herbal tea, and early pioneers used the plant as a substitute for black tea. Miwok Indians of California made baskets from ceanothus branches. C. integerrimus has been used by North American tribes to ease childbirth. All photos taken by Chaco using very basic and inexpensive camera gear as well as High Dynamic Range Exposure software.
Don't miss this stunning display of blue blooms around Lake Hodges of 'ceanothus' aka California Wild Lilac this month. Ceanothus flower colors range from a light frosted blue to cobalt blue. This may be a good sign for an increase in the deer population in and around Lake Hodges in Escondido as deer LOVE lilac. As it turns out Ceanothus is a great source of nutrition for deer, specifically mule deer here in north San Diego County. However, the leaves are not as nutritious from late spring to early fall as they are in early spring. Porcupines and quail have also been seen eating stems and seeds of these shrubs. The leaves are a good source of protein and the stems and leaves have been found to contain a high amount of calcium. Plants in this genus can be found on dry and sunny hillsides. Native Americans used the dried leaves of this plant as an herbal tea, and early pioneers used the plant as a substitute for black tea. Miwok Indians of California made baskets from ceanothus branches. C. integerrimus has been used by North American tribes to ease childbirth. All photos taken by Chaco using very basic and inexpensive camera gear as well as High Dynamic Range Exposure software.
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