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Coneflower
Grows from 2 to nearly 4 feet tall. Found in prairies and dry, open woods. Blooms late May to October. Both yellow and purple varieties are present in the Loess Hills.
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Vetch
A Loess Hills visitor sits amid the vetch at the top of Murray Hill. Found in Prairies and plains, especially on moist soils, their pea-like flowers are borne in loose clusters that arise from the upper leaves.
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Vervain
Found throughout most of the United States in prairies, on roadsides, and in other open habitats, vervain flowers from late June to September. The tops of the vervains persist throughout the winter, providing a seed source for birds.
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Yucca
The leaves of this large plant all arise from the base. Found in dry, well-drained soils of the Great Plains and the western edge of the midwestern prairie. Blooms of cream white abound in early June to July.
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Milkweed
Found throughout the tall grass prairie region in moist soil at the edges of prairie potholes and marshes. Blooms July though August. Milkweeds have a long medicinal history.
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Red Tailed Hawk
One of the many varieties of hawk that are prevalent in the Loess Hills, the red-tailed hawk is a good hunter. Their lofty-soaring flight and keen eyes search for prey far below in the prairies and meadows.
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Puccoon
Commonly found in plains and prairies, especially areas tending to be dry, and also in open woods and woodland edges. This species indicates the prairie is in good condition. Blooming period is from April to June.
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