Mayapples in August

Mayapples are one of the earliest large plants to appear in the spring in Morton Grove's forest preserves. They grow as high as 1 1/2 feet tall.

The blossoms emerge in early May, but the the fruit--or the apple--doesn't ripen until August. Its leaves spread out, which is why some call it the umbrella plant. But perhaps it should be called "august-apple." 

The four photographs are of mayapples in Morton Grove's Linne Woods. The first two were taken in May, the last two in August. As you'll see, the leaves wither in the summer. 

Mayapples are common in Illinois, but the only other member of its genus is an Asian plant.