Even though the temperatures still get into the 70s, summer is fading fast; autumn is now bursting with color. As I walk through the woods, the green undergrowth that was full of colorful flowers in the spring is now mostly green with bright red berries randomly peeking through. It is always thrilling for me to come upon the fruits of spring’s flowers. Most people focus on the obvious change in leaves, but it’s the tiny red orbs hidden along the forest floor that remind me it is autumn.

It is always exciting to come across Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum) whether it is in bloom or fruiting. It’s hard to miss its bright red cluster of berries.

Fruiting Jack-in-the-Pulpit

During the spring, this one looks very similar to Solomon’s seal but now with the red berries hanging at the end of its stem, it is clearly not. Some call it False Solomon’s Seal but I prefer Showy Solomon’s Seal (Smilacina racemosa) a much more provocative and deserving moniker.

Fruiting Showy Solomon Seal

I love the way Partridgeberry (Mitchella repens) carpets the forest floor. Repens is Latin for creeping, which speaks to its non-climbing vine. Ruffed grouse enjoy the berries, hence the name Partridgeberry. The red berries are edible but rather tasteless, although good as a snack while hiking along the trail.

Patridgeberry

What reminds you of autumn? Please share and I will continue to share.