Shawnee National Forest

Bell Smith Springs Area
Dwarf larkspur (Delphinium tricorne) is almost always encountered in the rich mesic upland forest in Bell Smith Springs and throughout the Shawnee National Forest. Photo by Wayne Owen.

LaRue Pine Hills Area
Pink azalea (Rhododendron prinophyllum) is found on acidic cherty soils on the dry ridge tops at LaRue Pine Hills. They are almost always at peak bloom on Mother's day weekend in May. Photo by Penny Stritch.

Simpson Township Barrens
Pale purple coneflower (Echinacea pallida) is a wildflower more commonly encountered on the tall grass prairies of central Illinois. However, many of the wildflowers occurring in conjunction with the open limestone barrens community are also commonly encountered on the Illinois prairies.. Photo by Larry Stritch.