Blackened

Nettles keep the capacity to surprise us well into September, as my wrist can attest after some blackberrying yesterday. The characteristic chemistry of the plant is also seen in the change of colour when it dies back. While others are happy to go from green to brown, after a little yellowing nettles tend to go black. The leaf tips on this one are a glossy black as if it's been tarred.

Bracken meanwhile is browning more and more as the cooler nights take their toll.












But the early morning explorer on Thistle Hill is unlikely to be nettled. Blackberries are not what he seeks.