When it comes to springtime blooms in Idaho, the bright purple lilies of the Camas Prairie get most of the attention. However, that’s far from the only fantastic bloom that takes place in the Gem State. Come spring, the rolling fields of north-central Idaho become blanketed in blooming canola and it’s a magnificent sight to see. The bright yellow fields are a nature photographer’s dream come true, so make it your mission to see the springtime canola blooms for yourself in the upcoming months.
If you’ve ever driven through north-central Idaho in the springtime and wondered what those gold-covered fields are, you’ve come to the right place. These vibrant yellow blooms are canola flowers, and their annual appearance makes for one of the most magnificent sights in Idaho.
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Canola flowers typically start blooming in late spring and through early summer. Specifically, these incredible blooms can be found in the region of Idaho known as the Palouse, which stretches from just north of Potlatch and down through Grangeville.
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Comprised of an endless landscape of rolling hills, the Palouse is a major agricultural area that’s primarily known for producing what and legumes. It’s a striking destination no matter what time of year it is, but springtime is especially noteworthy.
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Canola is a popular rotation crop for wheat that’s planted all across the Palouse region. Because of this, the canola blooms are rarely found in the exact same spot every year. You sometimes have to search to find them!
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Who knew that the plant that produces canola oil was so vibrant and beautiful? Canola, commonly known as rapeseed, is a bright-yellow flowering member of the family Brassicaceae—the mustard and cabbage family.
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In some cases, these stunning blooms can grow up to 5-feet tall. The plants start to lose their height and structure after flowering, and they are typically harvested in mid-August.
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Seeing the canola bloom across the Palouse is bound to become one of your favorite springtime traditions. This endless ocean of bright yellow flowers is a sight to be seen, so plan a canola-hunting adventure soon.
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Have you had the opportunity to see the canola blooms in north-central Idaho with your own eyes? Share your experience with us below!
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