The yellow flowers blanketing Elbert County are nearing the end of their season. The blooms, commonly known as greenthread, are so bright and pervasive that the phenomenon can be clearly seen from above. Sometimes called golden wave, the small (less than two inches across) flowers certainly live up to their name.
Scientifically known as Thelesperma filifolium, they’re casually called many other names, such as Navajo tea, threadleaf yellowrays, field coreopsis and Hopi or Zuni tea. Greenthread only seems to be this showy about every 10 years, making this year’s blooming season special indeed.
The Elbert County Extension Office said greenthread can be seen throughout the hillsides of Elbert County. “More visible where grass has been grazed low in the previous year. The continued early spring moisture, on slopes that drain well, followed by hot summer days can create just the right conditions to make this spectacular wildflower phenomenon,” the office stated.
Greenthread is deer-resistant and drought-tolerant. It’s native to the U.S. and gets its name from the thread-like appearance of its leaves. Many butterfly species use it as a nectar source, and bees and other pollinators seem to like it too. The “annual can be found throughout the High Plains, from South Dakota to Texas,” the Extension Office shared, and it is “typically found in large colonies in dry, sandy soils.”
To make greenthread into Navajo tea, also called cota and traditionally used by Pueblo cultures, almost the entire plant is steeped — including stem, leaves and flowers. The resulting tea tastes similar to green tea. Navajo tea can have a drying effect and is traditionally used to help reduce mucus, reduce fevers, treat kidney problems and relieve stomach aches.
For more information about greenthread and other local flora, visit Front Range Wild Ones at frontrange.wildones.org.
For more information on the Elbert County Extension Office, visit elbert.extension.colostate.edu. To speak to a master gardener, call the Extension Office, 303-621-3162, on Tuesdays or Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The Extension Office provides assistance with local agriculture, horticulture, family and consumer science, natural resources and 4-H youth programs.
The office will offer a free master gardener education presentation, “Elbert County Wildflowers,” during the upcoming Elbert County Fair on Aug. 1 at 1:30 pm in the Agricultural Building Conference Room.