Finding Something New on a Path Well Traveled

Yesterday we decided to take a walk in the woods.  It was a cool, but not unpleasant morning, although a little windy.  Down in the woods you don't notice the wind except for the sound in the branches far above your head.

We took the path down through the woods to the back side of our place hoping to spot a deer, or some other wildlife out and about.  We took lots of photos of the Fall colors which are rapidly developing in the trees.  I may post of few of those photos in coming days.

On the way back through the woods I noticed a shrub I had not noticed previously.  It appeared to be in full bloom at this late time of year.  As it turned out, it wasn't in bloom, but the seeds were opening up getting ready to release.

We spent some time researching the plant when we got back home.  It is a Groundseltree (Baccharis halimifolia).  We are on the extreme western edge of its range.  It is primarily found in Florida and along the Gulf Coast to the east of us.  Below are photos.