Evanston Environmental Association

Sign up for our monthly newsletter filled with upcoming events, updates on our work and fun naturalist information.

www.evanstonenvironment.org/join-email

It’s easy to feel a sense of "climate fatigue" or helplessness when looking at the broader political and environmental landscape. If you’ve resolved to do more for your community this year—or if you’re looking for a productive way to channel your energy into positive change—we have a seat at the table for you.

The Evanston Environmental Association (EEA) is at a critical crossroads. We are an all-volunteer organization with no paid staff, which means our Board of Directors is the heartbeat of everything we do. We are looking for passionate neighbors to help us ensure Evanston remains a leader in local sustainability and environmental education.

evanstonenvironment.org/join-the-board

Shop the Cream gentian (new this year!) and other native plants at our plant sale evanstonenvironment.org/nativeplantsale

Due to habitat loss, this is a somewhat rare plant here in the midwest. It’s a great addition to native gardens in our area. Flower color may be white, cream, or green, depending on local conditions. Flowers best in full sun; its olive-colored leaves may turn yellow in strong sun, which does not indicate disease! A little afternoon shade is beneficial, as is cooler weather. Its attractive blooms are tube-shaped, 1-1/2 inches long, formed in
clusters of 5-7 at the top of single stems, and have no fragrance.

Bumblebees love its nectar. Native habitats include forest edges, sandy Oak savannas, and rocky bluffs. It’s an unusual little beauty that lights up the garden in late summer and early fall, when many showy plants are finished blooming. Group it for best effect.

Height: 2-3 ft
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: loam, clay, gravel or sand. Tolerates slightly alkaline conditions.
Moisture: Well drained, medium moisture
Bloom time: August to October

Credits: Info courtesy of missouribotanicalgarden.org
Photo courtesy of illinoiswildflowers.info