Spotted Touch-Me-Not
Spotted touch-me-nots, also known as orange jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), are a native wildflower of Illinois and were in bloom a couple of weeks ago at Moraine Hills State Park. These flowers are especially popular with pollinators, and I witnessed this firsthand while photographing a small stand along the trail. As I framed a few shots, a honey bee arrived and gently moved from bloom to bloom, disappearing deep inside each flower in search of nectar. The plant’s playful name comes from its seed pods, which pop open at the slightest touch—sending seeds flying several feet away.
Did you know?
Jewelweed plants can grow more than three feet tall, with tender, oval-shaped leaves that have gently scalloped edges. When water collects on the leaves, it beads up into shimmering droplets that resemble tiny jewels and often roll right off. (Source: The Outdoor Apothecary)
