Forests are not the only habitats that have beautiful leaves in autumn.  Here are two photos of a common prairie plant, wild bergamot (aka beebalm or Monarda fistulosa).  Both photos were taken yesterday in a small restored prairie.

Colorful leaves of wild bergamot in a restored prairie at The Leadership Center in Aurora, Nebraska.

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More leaves, different plant, same prairie.

As is usually the case, you have to look a little closer to see the beauty in a prairie as compared to forests or other “show off” habitat types.  It’s not a lot of work, though, and is usually worth the effort!