id help

I came across an area next to a creek mostly shaded that a group of these were growing in. This was taken around the middle of August. I found these brown (whatever they are) really interesting. The foliage is as you see kinda fern like and soft to the touch. These were around 2-3 feet in height.

Brad

Brad,

It is the bean pod of Illinois bundleflower, Desmanthes illinoiensis. A native, it is found in prairies in moist soil and along roadsides. Your habitat is a little unusual but maybe there was a prairie nearby at one time? Children of some tribes used the dried seed pods as rattles. A picture of the flowers is in you know who's Ozark wildflower book on p. 57 or, if you are using the Illinois wildflower book, on p. 58.

Best,
Don

Very cool Don. I found this in a somewhat remote location near a local lake on the edge of town. So far it's the only one I have came across in these parts.
I appreciate you time and effort. (I'm going to have to get that you know who's book )

Thanks Don,
Brad

Very nice Brad. I've seen these occasionally but I can't remember where now. I like the contrast that the bundleflower creates against the soft green bg, very nice.