The chokecherry is a shrub-like tree that often grows in thickets. This is seen around the main parking area outside the Visitor Center, and in a few places along the park road. The trees bloom a cluster of white flowers in May which fill the air with a sweet fragrance. They also attract pollinating bees. Standing near a chokecherry in May, one can almost feel the buzzing of the insects. By late July or August the berries have developed and will turn a deep purple or black color. The most common shrub on the Great Plains is sagebrush, which comes in many different varieties. Silver sage grows large and conspicuous, as does big sagebrush. The latter has a Wyoming subspecies; although common, the only place within the park to find big sagebrush is on the summit of Devils Tower! The sages which grow on North American prairies are not the same as the sage in your kitchen. Although fragrant (and technically edible), the various wild sages are not commercially used. It is an important ceremonial plant. Many indigenous people still use sage today for prayer and purification ceremonies.
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chokecherry chokecherry|sagebrush,|Wyoming subspecies;|North American prairies chokecherry|sagebrush,|Silver sage chokecherry|Silver sage|big sagebrush.