The Osage Plain has the largest acreage left of the tall grass prairie biome in Missouri. From late March through to the first frost in the fall, flowering plants can be found.
May for Indian Paintbrush, June for Coneflowers, July for Blazing Stars, and August for the composite family of flowering plants are the main attractions.
In addition to the above plants there are somewhere around 400+ additional species of plant to enjoy and photograph. The federally listed Mead's Milkweed can be found in several of these.
The Missouri Department of Conservation has a free book "Public Prairies of Missouri" that can be ordered on their web site (Missouri Dept of Conservation). This publication covers the entire state, the Ossage Plain prairies are located in the southwest section of the guide.
Niawathe Prairie, Wah Kon Tah Prairie, Paintbrush Prairie and Prairie State Park are some that are worth a start exploring. (Click on underlined prairies to go to web sites).
When visiting these sites, a wide-brim hat is an essential piece of equipment. Liquid is also just as important. It is wise to stay off these areas during the hottest times of the day. Lack of shade makes these areas dangerous for heat exhaustion or worse.
Web Sites:
Missouri Department of Natural Resources