White penstemon.

Queen Anne’s lace.

Wildflower guides are available through the Missouri Department of Conservation, Skalicky said.

While it’s against state law to dig up plants, permits may be obtained through the Missouri Department of Transportation for collecting seeds or picking berries.

Jeff Briggs, a spokesman for MoDOT, said wildflowers often are planted by volunteers to beautify the roadsides.

Skalicky said that as the seasons change, cardinal flower will begin to bloom, and in the fall, the colors of the sumac will paint the Ozarks.

He said forests hold a wealth of wildflowers, but those usually are at their peak in the early spring, before the trees begin to produce leaves.

Carol Stark is the editor of The Joplin Globe.

Permits

Jeff Briggs, a spokesman for the Missouri Department of Transportation, said residents may call (888) 275-6636 and request a permit for picking berries or collecting wildflower seeds.