A publication of the VIRGINIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY www.vnps.org Conserving wild flowers and wild places Crow's Nest on track to be natural area preserve

The protection of the 3,000-acre cessful negotiations, Stafford County Crow's Nest peninsula in eastern signed a contract with the landowner Stafford County has been one of the to acquire 1,780 acres by the end of Commonwealth of Virginia's highest April, and a second phase to include land conservation priorities for almost 1,167 acres by the end of 2009. Thanks a decade. Bounded by the Potomac and to support from the county, the Virginia Accokeek Creek, the Crow’s Nest prop¬ Department of Conservation and erty contains 746 acres of tidal and Recreation's Natural Heritage Program, non-tidal wetlands, 2,200 acres of ma¬ The Nature Conservancy and others, ture coastal hardwood forest (includ¬ the 19 million dollar funding is in hand ing two forest types that are recognized for phase one. The funds have not yet as globally rare by NatureServe and the been identified for phase two. Virginia Natural Heritage Program), Once acquired, the property will habitat for about 60 species of be managed by DCR's Natural Heri¬ neotropical migratory songbirds, nearly tage Program as a state natural area 11 miles of shoreline and over 15 miles preserve. If staffing and management of stream. Crow's Nest is an ecological funds are identified, the property will jewel located less than 45 miles from be open to the public for passive recre¬ downtown Washington, D.C. ation including hiking, bird watching In December, after years of unsuc¬ and nature study in early 2009.

Flora Project moving toward publication date of 2011-2012 Virginia's first contemporary need to identify, learn about, and lo¬ content including adding new species, Flora, Flora of Virginia, 2011-2012, cate the plants that are in Virginia. new names, and facilitating the Flora's will give a full list of plants identified VNPS members have been a major expected availability on the internet. In in Virginia, a description of each plant source of financial support, and that other words, the Flora of Virginia pub¬ (3,650) and illustrations. Preceded 268 support has been greatly appreciated lication does not end with a hard-cover years ago by Flora Virginica before by the Flora of Virginia Board. Work on book. Once published, there will be more 1743, it is of significant importance the Flora will continue past the book's financial support needed in order to for botanists, students, natural re¬ 2011-2012 publication date. There will keep information current and available. source managers and teachers who be a need for the continued updating of A special award of financial assis¬ tance was given by VNPS John Clayton Chapter to support the essential work INSIDE by Michael Terry (doing herbarium re¬ view and Poaceae illustrations) and Calendar of events • 2008 Wildflower of the Year Bland Crowder, working with Chris Page 3 Insert (See Flora Project, page 6) Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society From the president. Learn to observe native habitats and changed around you

I want to make note of a change in it. There are so many things to see! the Annual Meeting date for next Sep¬ The leaf scar of box-elder is very tember from the formerly announced narrow, and since it is in the maple dates to September 12-14. We apolo¬ fanjily and has opposite branching, gize for any inconvenience this causes, the leaf scars are right across from and hope those of you who plan to each other. In this case, they encircle come will be able to do so. the twig and several of the keys remark It never fails to amaze me when 1 on the point formed zvhere the scars go out after a few icy days and find come together. Now, here is the good some living thing with very new and part: I was looking closely at the scar and fresh looking pieces. I'm going to par¬ found a line of very fresh-looking white ticipate in Project Budburst*, and hair-like projections interspersed with from the list of plants on the website tiny, stalked red glands. How can these I chose box-elder, Acer negundo be¬ little things survive single digit tempera¬ cause I have several out back of my tures and coatings of ice and look brand house. So I thought I'd go out and new? take a preliminary look at it. It looked *Project BudBurst is a national like a tree in winter — buds wrapped field campaign for citizen scientists up tight. I have a bud collection and I wasn't sure I designed to engage the public in the collection of impor¬ had a piece of box-elder, so I brought a twig in to tant climate change data based on the timing of leafing take a closer look with a binocular microscope. If and flowering of trees and flowers. you haven't used one of these I highly recommend Your president, Sally Anderson Project BudBurst http://www.ivindows.ucar.edu/ VNPS Volunteers needed citizen_science,/budburst/ September and our VNPS An¬ Join us in collecting important climate change data on the timing of leaf¬ nual Meeting may seem far away, but ing and flowering in your area through Project BudBurst! This national field our search for directors to be elected campaign targets native tree and flower species across the country. With your is already under way. Please consider help, we will be compiling valuable environmental and climate change infor¬ serving the society in one of the fol¬ mation around the United States. lowing capacities. If you are inter¬ Register Now - Become a member of the Project BudBurst community! ested in knowing more about the jobs This allows you to save your observation sites and plants that you are moni¬ or have an interest in a particular one, toring throughout the year and for coming years. please contact VNPS President Sally Subscribe to the Project BudBurst mailing list to receive updates Anderson at [email protected]. and announcements about the new features added for 2008. Read about Available positions are: First Vice- us in the News! president; Recording Secretary; Trea¬ Last year's inaugural event drew thousands of people of all ages taking surer; Membership Chair; Publica¬ careful observations of the phenological events such as the first bud burst, tions Chair; Publicity Chair; and first leafing, first flower, and seed or fruit dispersal of a diversity of tree and Director at Large. Also, membership flower species, including weeds and ornamentals. The citizen science obser¬ on the Executive Committee is open vations and records were entered into the BudBurst data base. As a result of for any member of the board of direc¬ the pilot field campaign, useful data was collected in a consistent way across tors. Five to eight members are needed. the country so that scientists can use it to learn about the responses of indi¬ Details of programs, policy and fi¬ vidual plant species to climatic variation locally, regionally, and nationally, nance are discussed and recommen¬ and to detect longer-term impacts of climate change by comparing with his¬ dations are made to the full board. The torical data. Due to the enthusiastic response and robust participation in 2007, Executive Committee meets quarterly in the month prior to the board of di¬ the website features for Project BudBurst in 2008 have expanded! rectors meeting. Page 2 Spring 2008 . = Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society = Virginia Wildflower Celebration 2008 The 13 chapters of the Virginia Native Plant Society celebrate the rich diversity of the native flora of the Common¬ wealth each spring. Society members will share their enthusiasm for wild plants and wild places on field trips and wildflower walks, and during garden tours, plant sales, and a variety of other programs throughout the state. You are cordially invited to any of the activities listed below; they are all open to the public. As some events require reservations, fees or additional instructions, use the contact information provided to obtain further information. Plants propagated by members will be available at chapter plant sales. As you travel about the state, watch for the 2008 VNPS Wildflower of the Year, Virginia spiderwort (Tradescantici virginiana). It is widespread in the eastern U.S. from New England to Georgia and even west in Minnesota and Missouri. It has been documented in about half of Virginia's counties. Perhaps you can add to that list of documented sites. Spiderwort flowers from April to July. Wildflower Calendar of Events

South Hampton Roads Chapter Shenandoah Chapter Annual Plant plants. The Potowmack Chapter will be meeting and talk - Thursday April 24, 7 Sale, Part 2 - Saturday May 3, Staunton/ selling plants from its propagation area p.m. at the Norfolk Botanical Garden, Augusta Farmers Market in downtown behind the Horticultural Center. Discounts Karen Forget of Lynnhaven River NOW Staunton, 8 a.m.-noon. Contact Anneli for VNPS members. Located at 4603 Green will speak on "Gardening to Save the Tattersall at [email protected] or Spring Rd., Alexandria, VA 22312. River." For information call 757-482-9120. 540-322-1146. (www.greenspring.org) Shenandoah Chapter Annual Plant Paul James Garden Field Trip - Sat¬ Blue Ridge Wildflower Society Sale, Part I - Saturday April 26, Riverfest urday May 3,9 a.m. Blue Ridge Wildflower Meeting - Monday May 19, 7 p.m. at in Waynesboro, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Contact Society trip led by Jim Bush to this gar¬ Roanoke Church of Christ at 2606 Bran¬ Anneli Tattersall at [email protected] den known for rhododendrons and aza¬ don Ave., in Roanoke. Chapter or 540-322-1146. leas. After the garden, the group will visit registery site chair Sandra Elder will Buffalo Creek Field Trip - Saturday the Cahas Knob Registry Site. Meet in present a program on registry sites in April 26, 1 p.m. Blue Ridge Wildflower parking lots at Lowes in Roanoke on U.S. the chapter's area. Society trip with leader Sandra Elder to 220 south of Tanglewood Mall. Bring a South Hampton Roads Chapter this VNPS Registry Site. See bluebells, lunch. For information, 540-929-4775. meeting and talk - Thursday May 22, 7 dwarf ginseng, walking fern, dwarf iris Native Plant Sale at the Norfolk p.m. at the Norfolk Botanical Garden, during some easy walking along a flood Botanical Garden - Saturday May 10, 9- Chapter member Gail Farley will speak on plain and wooded hillside. Take U.S. 460 10 a.m. members preview, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. "The Freedom Lawn is for the B's: Honey¬ east to Rt. 811 at New London. Turn right general public. Regular garden admission bees, ladybugs, butterflies, and the Chesa¬ onto Rt. 811 at the Sheetz. Follow 811 to rates apply. Contact Nicole Knudson at peake Bay." Call 757-482-9120. Rt. 711 and turn right on 711 for about 757-858-5443. Dedication for the Dorothy Crandall two miles. Turn left onto Rt. 24, go one Blue Ridge Wildflower Society Bliss Botanic Garden - Friday May 30, mile, cross Buffalo Creek. Parking lot on Spring Wildflower Sale - Saturday May 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Randolph College in right. Contact Elder at 434-525-8433. 10,9 a.m.-noon. Located at Virginia West¬ Lynchburg. Bliss is a member of the Blue Jefferson Chapter Annual Native ern Community College in parking lot Ridge Wildflower Society. Take U.S. 460 Plant Sale - Sunday April 27,1 - 3 p.m. at behind arboretum. east to U.S. 29 to Main Street, Main Street Ivy Creek Natural Area's Educational Prince William Wildflower Society to Rivermont Avenue and right onto Nor¬ Bldg., Charlottesville. In conjunction with Plant Sale - Saturday May 10. Email folk Avenue. Park in open lots and follow Natural History Day with other environ¬ [email protected]. signs to botanic garden. mental displays. Spring ephemerals in¬ Wintergreen Spring Wildflower Blister Swamp and Sinks of cluding bluebells, trillium, columbine, nu¬ Symposium - Friday-Sunday, May 16-18. Gandi - Saturday June 7, Shenan¬ merous other perennials, ferns, shrubs, Wintergreen Nature Foundation's annual doah Chapter walk with leader Jay and trees. Located on Earlysville Rd. just symposium. Instructors for the weekend Shaner. Contact Chris Bowlen at south of Woodlands Rd. intersection. include well known botanists, authors, [email protected] or Shaner 434-293-4217. and artists, each prepared with a full week¬ at 540-886-5763. Prince William Wildflower Society end of activities and lectures that will re¬ Rhododendron Day on the Blue Garden Tour - Sunday April 27,12-5 p.m. connect you with nature. For info, Ridge Parkway - Saturday June 7, 8 a.m./ Visit three gardens and a natural stand of www.twnf.org. 10 a.m.. The Blue Ridge Wildflower Soci¬ bluebells. Email [email protected]. Potowmack Chapter Native Plant ety will meet at Peaks of Otter Visitor Cen¬ Blue Ridge Wildflower Society Sale - Saturday May 17, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at ter at 8 a.m. for breakfast and 10 a.m. for Meeting - Monday April 28, 7 p.m. at the Green Spring Gardens in Alexandria dur¬ the event. The group will be "overlook Roanoke Church of Christ at 2606 Bran¬ ing Spring Garden Day event. With over hopping” under the guidance of Rich Crites don Ave., in Roanoke. Learn about the 40 vendors. Spring Garden Day is the larg¬ (540-774-4518). Pack a lunch. Walking will Virginia Department of Transportation's est plant sale in the Northern Virginia area be minimal. median and roadside flower plantings. and a great place for a wide variety of

Spring 2008 Page 3 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society Discover Virginia's plants on a VNPS field trip

woodpecker habitat at The Nature The Virginia Native Plant Society stargrass, and much more. It was at Conservancy's Piney Grove Preserve. announces a series of field trips for Reddish Knob that former Presh 3. Cypress Bridge Forest - Octo¬ 2008 to some of the most botanically dent Clinton delivered remarks ber 11 (Saturday). Difficulty de¬ interesting preserves the state has to at a "Roadless Lands" event pends on water level. Cypress offer. We are making these trips yearly in 1999, when the Bridge Forest is the fairly re¬ events to allow our members to visit Roadless Rule in cently discovered site of many some of our preserves, parks and Reg¬ the National For¬ state and national cham¬ istry sites with expert guides. ests was being Trips vary in level of difficulty so deliberated. pion cypress and swamp please read descriptions carefully. Space is limited and registration is re¬ £ / tupelo trees. quired at least 10 days before the K/» In 2006, (k* Fleming and hike. There is a fee of $10 per hike and a limit of Patterson re¬ 20 participants ported in our Only heavy newsletter that at rain will cancel least 12 indi¬ trips. For more information, contact the vidual swamp VNPS office at 540-837-1600 or 2. Blackwater Ecological Preserve tupelos, and six individual bald cy¬ [email protected]. This year we are -June 28 (Saturday), 10 a.m.-l p.m. Easy press exceeding eight feet in diameter offering the following field trips: to moderate. Blackwater Ecological were measured. The largest individu¬ 1. Reddish Knob - May 17 (Satur¬ Preserve in Isle of Wight County, with als are between 10 and 12 feet in diam¬ day), 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Easy to mod¬ an area of 318 acres, is situated on dry eter. All of the large trees are hollow, erate. Reddish Knob, in the George to mesic sand ridges and has two of which appears to be one of the princi¬ Washington National Forest is one of Virginia's rarest plant communities - pal reasons this forest has never been the highest peaks in the state at 4,398 longleaf pine-turkey oak flatwoods and cut. Purchase of this land as a Natural feet, with sweeping views and moun¬ longleaf pine savannas. These and Area Preserve is being negotiated. Byron tain flora. Members of the Shenandoah other communities at the preserve were Carmean will lead us on a trip to see Chapter will lead us on a trip along FR once more common in southeastern these magnificent giants. We hope for 85 South and the side road that leads Virginia, but are now limited to a few low water at this time of year in order to up to the peak. Both roads are veritable precious stands. Preserve Steward be able to walk among these trees, but arboreta and are lined with ferns, Darren Loomis will lead this trip, will likely need to paddle a short dis¬ heath shrubs and many mountain which will also feature a stop at the tance to the site. Be prepared for wad¬ wildflowers such as turkeybeard, Clin- Chubb Sandhill Natural Area ing and possibly for paddling depend¬ tonia, gaywings, painted trillium, Preserve's longleaf pine restoration site ing upon conditions at the time. This black cohosh, dwarf crested iris. and a drive through the red cockaded may therefore be a more difficult trip. Field Trip Registration For all hikes, wear sturdy shoes or boots and be prepared for bugs and sun. Bring water and lunch or snacks. Directions and meeting places will be provided to registered participants. Please provide your email address for this purpose, or request directions by mail on the form. Please mail your registration with your field trip choice(s) and check to: VNPS FIELD TRIPS, 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Boyce VA 22620. Name_ Address_ City_ State/ Zip Code Telephone email please mail directions to me Field trips ($10 each): _1. Reddish Knob _2. Blackwater Ecological Preserve _3. Cypress Bridge Forest _Total enclosed Page 4 Spring 2008 . - - Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society - Magnolia bogs: keepers of unique flora

Magnolia bogs have long been such as bog clubmoss, twisted regarded as one of the most interest¬ spikerush, slender beaksedge, bunched Anruial Meeting ing natural features in the Washing¬ beaksedge, hairy umbrella-sedge, As an ecosystem unique to the ton, D.C. area. W.L. McAtee, a Wash¬ darkgreen sedge, bog yelloweyed grass, Fall Line, a magnolia bog tour ington area naturalist who first de¬ ten-angled pipewort, smooth winter- will be offered as a field trip at fined these bogs in 1918, termed them berry, red milkweed, zigzag bladder- our Annual Meeting. Please “magnolia bogs" for the unique as¬ wort, and Elliott's goldenrod. Other note that the date for the Annual semblage of sweetbay magnolia well-known bogs in Anne Arundel Meeting will be September 12- (Magnolia virginiana), sphagnum County, Maryland, that are more east¬ 14, 2008. In our last issue we moss, and other bog flora. Occasion¬ ward of the fall line — such as the extir¬ printed a date later in Septem¬ ally they are referred to as "McAteean pated Glen Bumie Bog and the Magothy ber. We regret the confusion. Bogs," after McAtee, or "seepage Bogs — are not characteristic magnolia bogs." These bogs usually form on bogs, despite some floristic similarities, gion. All available information re¬ hillsides or slopes where a spring or because of different geological condi¬ garding the historic magnolia bogs - seep flows from an upland gravel and tions and plant assemblages. - going back to the Civil War — was sand aquifer over a thick, impervious Peatlands, pocosins, fens, and also researched and documented. We layer of underlying clay which prevents bogs throughout the coastal plain are have been aided in these surveys by the downward infiltration of water. now extremely rare as a result of habi¬ other botanists with the Maryland This seepage flow and the highly tat disturbance, fire suppression, and Native Plant Society (MNPS), and the acidic, gravelly soils create optimal fragmentation. Magnolia bogs are preservation of surviving magnolia conditions for the formation of bogs. also increasingly rare, and surviving bogs has become a major campaign The term "bog" as applied here, ones are degraded throughout their of MNPS. Although most of the his¬ although technically a misnomer, has range because of extensive develop¬ toric bogs have been destroyed, some traditionally been used by people in ment of the gravel terraces that sur¬ new sites have been discovered -- the general, including botanists, to de¬ round the bogs — destroying or se¬ mostly pristine but threatened Araby scribe acidic, sphagnous wetlands verely depleting their water supply. Bog is a stellar example. that strongly resemble bogs. Magno¬ Most of the famous ones surveyed by A dozen magnolia bogs are known lia bogs are actually acidic, fen-like the Smithsonian Institution and W.L. to exist today in Maryland, D.C., and seeps uniquely associated with high McAtee nearly a century ago, like the Virginia, three of which are in the path elevation gravel terraces of the inner Holmead Swamp, Terra Cotta Bog, of the proposed InterCounty Connec¬ coastal plain near the fall line, which and Powder Mill bogs, have long been tor, and several small remnants of his¬ divides the coastal plain and pied¬ destroyed (although we recently un¬ toric bogs like the Ammendale and mont physiographic provinces in the covered a small remnant of the latter, Powder Mill Bogs have been discov¬ Mid-Atlantic region. Their distribu¬ along with a small population of ten¬ ered. While most of the rare orchids tion generally follows the fall line in angled pipewort). Some, like the and lilies have largely disappeared, a narrow east-west band from the Suitland Bog and Oxon Run bogs, several very rare plants that had not Laurel area, at the northern extent of have survived, although the Suitland been seen for many decades — halberd¬ their range in Prince George's County, Bog is greatly disturbed with the ad¬ leaved greenbrier, low rough aster, and Maryland, to their southern extent dition of a boardwalk, numerous out- Long's rush, for example — have been near Fredericksburg, Virginia. plantings of non-native (to the site) rediscovered. Several previously unre¬ Throughout their range, magnolia carnivorous pitcher plants that rob ported plants for Maryland — includ¬ bogs were never common or very large, valuable habitat for native species, a ing featherbristle beak sedge usually occupying an acre or less in sewer line, and encroaching housing (Rhynchospora oligantha) -- have also size. Nevertheless, they are vitally im¬ developments. Urbanization, storm turned up. portant resources both for the pure, water runoff, siltation, off-road ve¬ By Roderick Simmons and Mark Strong. naturally filtered waters which flow hicles, and invasive exotic plants Article was first published in Audubon continuously from them — even in have degraded most of the few re¬ Naturalist News, October, 2002 and has drought periods — and the relic popu¬ maining magnolia bogs and greatly been reprinted here with permission. lations of ancient northward and west¬ threaten their future survival. Audubon Naturalist Neivs is a publica¬ ward migrations of often rare coastal For the past five years, as part of tion of the Audubon Naturalist Society . plain flora, which have persisted in a research project mainly for conser¬ Simmons is a field ecologist with the city of Alexandria; Strong a botanist with the small communities well inland and vation purposes, we have been con¬ Smithsonian Institution. They expect to fairly close to the piedmont. Included ducting an exhaustive search for any publish their research on coastal plain remaining magnolia bogs in the re¬ in these relic communities are plants magnolia bogs soon.

Spring 2008 Page 5 — Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society . Students test eradication techniques for garlic mustard I am a teacher at the Mountain Vista centrated on hand pulling, which is experimental group, approximately Governor’s School, a special high school time consuming and labor intensive. one-third of the plants died, while the program for advanced math and science A different method of eradication remaining two-thirds continued to students that draws attendees from that has been suggested is mowing. If grow. The average size of the control seven school districts. The school is lo¬ the plant is repeatedly mowed during group plants was larger, but the experi¬ cated at the two Lord Fairfax Commu¬ the growing season, it cannot flower mental group plants continued produc¬ nity College campuses in Warrenton and and spread. This is obviously imprac¬ ing leaves, even after three clippings. Middletown. One of the goals of our tical in an area such as the Thompson Mowing the winter rosettes, then, school is to promote student research. Center where mowing in the growing would not seem to be an effective My environmental science class at the season would seriously disturb the method of eliminating the garlic mus¬ Warrenton Campus, while studying very plants that are being preserved. tard plants. The clipping process did biodiversity and the issue of invasive During the winter, however, the native not significantly affect the mortality rate aliens, conducted a project on the eradi¬ lilies and orchids, such as the trillium of the plants studied; approximately cation of garlic mustard. Since I am a and lady's slipper species, are dor¬ one-third of the plants in both groups member of the VNPS, 1 thought that their mant, while the winter rosette of the died, probably due to uneven watering findings might be of interest to other garlic mustard is above ground, and or irregular planting. While the experi¬ members. Clelia LaMonica could be selectively removed. mental group plants were smaller, they Common garlic mustard, also This experiment was designed to test were alive and growing. Possibly dif¬ known as poor man's mustard, jack-in- the efficacy of mowing the winter rosette ferent results would be obtained if the the-bush, and mustard root, is a bien¬ as a deterrent to its growth. Garlic mus¬ experiment was conducted under cold nial introduced into North America in tard rosettes of various sizes were dug temperatures to better model the winter the 1860s as a culinary herb. Today it is from a somewhat disturbed wooded edge. conditions, but at the present time hand considered an invasive alien, spreading These were then planted in containers pulling appears to be the only effective easily into undisturbed plant commu¬ filled with potting soil. Tire planters were and ecologically sound method of re¬ nities. One such proliferation has been placed in windows on the north side of a moving the garlic mustard. noted iii the G. Richard Thompson Wild¬ building and were watered regularly If this subject interests you, visit the life Management Center in northern throughout the two months for which the following websites to learn more, Fauquier County, Virginia. This area, a experiment was conducted. Cutting with http://dnr.metrokc.gov/wlr/lands/ registry site of the Virginia Native Plant scissors modeled the mowing process. weeds/pdf/Garlic-Mustard-Control.pdf Society, is known for its large popula¬ Tire leaves and stems of the experimental http://www.vnps.org/conservation/ tion of Trillium grandiflorum. In recent group were cut back to soil level every ten registry.htm#sites years the trillium habitat has been in¬ days for thirty days. The plants were then http://www.nps.gov/plants/ALIEN/ fested by the garlic mustard. Efforts to allowed to continue growing for another fact/alpel.htm eradicate the garlic mustard have con- ten days and compared. Article by Mountain Vista Governor's In both the control group and the School Environmental Science Class • Flora Project- wildflowers. I can imagine botanists in completed 155 of 200 family treat¬ (Continued from page 1) the future, say in the year 2277, reading ments. 78 percent (Co-editor) Ludwig with various support assis¬ through the list of subscribers and not¬ Literature accounts - completed. tance. They joined the Flora production ing how very important Virginia flora Herbarium work - 1,950 of 3,650 spe¬ team during the past year to help reach was to those people. Memorials are an cies 53 percent (review of specimens) the targeted publication date. impressive legacy. Chris Ludwig review - 1,600 of 3,650 Right now, to insure meeting the If any project deserves VNPS finan¬ 44 percent (Co-Editor) 2011 publication date of the Flora of Vir¬ cial support, it is the Flora of Virginia, the John Townsend review - 650 of 3,650 ginia, financial support by VNPS mem¬ key single source of information to sup¬ 18 percent (Co-Editor) bers is important. The name of donors port conservation of our native plants and Lara Gastinger, Michael Terry: to the Flora of Virginia will appear in their habitats. Knowledge about plants Illustrations - 1,100 of 1,200 the first edition list of "Subscribers." A increases appreciation and the desire to Glossary - Bland Crowder - nearly gift up to $1,000 is listed in the "Spring protect them. Visit www.floraofvirginia.oig completed. Beauty" category. Small gifts are accu¬ for more information. Chapter on history of botany - Nancy mulative and can move the donor to the Nicky Staunton, VNPS member of the Hugo, Donna Ware start April 15 next level of subscription to the project. FOVP Board of Directors Chapter on natural history - Gary A recent generous gift at the Great Fleming Laurel level ($10,000) was given as a 27th REPORT ON PRODUCTION of Gary Fleming - ecology memorial for a loved one who loved The Flora of Virginia 1st Edition: Alan Weakley Family Key and fi¬ Alan Weakley family treatments - nal review Page 6 Spring 2008 = Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society ■■■ ■ Discover the Kansas prairie from the past

Deep in the heart of the Kansas find the limestone adder's tongue dian plantain (Arnoglossum Flint Hills there is a place that is dedi¬ (Ophioglossum engelmannii). This plantagineum) has white tubular flo¬ cated to preserving and interpreting is an unpretentious little plant rets in broad, flat-topped clusters. The the natural history and the ranching closely related to ferns. Its oval glowing pink-violet flowers of the legacy of the tallgrass prairie. This leaves are most easily spotted on fineleaf foxglove (Tomanthera place, called Tallgrass Prairie Na¬ open ground where the prairie has densiflora) are a contrast to its stiff tional Preserve, is two miles north of been burned. Pincushion cactus and bristly leaves. Strong City in Chase County. Fortu¬ (Coryphantha missouriensis) is Some interesting grasses to look nately for us all, the Tallgrass Pre¬ found on rocky hilltops, and their for are wedgegrass (Sphenopholis serve is open to the public year round glossy, dazzling red fruits will per¬ obtusata), Florida paspalum to learn about and enjoy our natural sist until early spring. The (P asp alum floridanum), prairie and cultural heritage. For native pinchushion's yellow flowers are dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis), plant enthusiasts there are 10,894 produced in May. and red sprangletop (Leptochloa acres of rolling hills and open prai¬ The scenery is continually filiformis). Take the Lowland Trail rie. The Tallgrass Preserve's vascu¬ changing. As the season and you may see anise root lar plant list documents nearly 500 progresses, tufts of lotus milk-vetch (■Osmorhiza longistylis), Maryland species of grasses, trees, and wild- (Astragalus lotiflorus) come into figwort (Scrophularia marilandica), flowers. With miles of hiking trails flower with mounds of violet-blue American bellflower (Campanula the hard part is deciding which route blossoms. The waving heads of americana), or hairy sunflower to take first. Be sure to pick up a plant silktop prairie clover (Dalea aurea) (.Helianthus hirsutus) at the wood¬ checklist before heading out. have a silvery inflorescence with a lands edge. On an early spring walk you ring of yellow flowers. In early During late September and into might see the tiny wedgeleaf draba summer colorful prairie clovers October, lady's tresses orchids (Draba cuneifolia) with white flow¬ (Dalea spp.), cat-claw sensitive (Spiranthes) can be found along the ers on wiry stems or field pussy- briar (Mimosa quadrivalvis), fox¬ prairie trails. Two species of lady's toes (Antennaria neglectn). Not glove penstemon (Penstemon tresses bloom in the fall, but a third only does the pussytoes' inflores¬ cobaea), butterflyweed (Asclepias species, the tallest and most delicate, cence look like the soft pads of a tuberosa) and many more are S. vernalis, flowers in July. Of course, cat's foot, but part of the flower re¬ blooming on the South Wind Hik¬ fall is the time for grasses. Big minds people of insect antenna, ing Trail. Standing two to five feet bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), In- thus the scientific name. If you have tall with large, parallel-veined, (See Kansas, page 8) a sharp eye, in mid-April you might smooth and ovate basal leaves, In¬

See the address label for your membership expiration date The Bulletin VNPS Membership/Renewal Form ISSN 1085-9632 Name(s)_ is published five times a year Address_ (Feb., April, June, August, Nov.) by City_State_Zip_ Virginia Native Plant Society _Individual $30 _Student $15 Blandy Experimental Farm _Family $40 _Associate (groups) $40* 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Unit 2 _Patron $50 _Sustaining $100 Boyce, VA 22620 _Life $500 (540) 837-1600 *Please designate one person as delegate for Associate membership To give a gift membership or join additional chapters: Enclose dues, name, address, and [email protected] chapter (non-voting memberships in any other than your primary chapter are $5) www.vnps.org

I wish to make an additional contribution to_VNPS or_Chapter in the Sally Anderson, President amount of_$10_$25_$50_$100_$(Other) Nancy Sorrells, Editor _Check if you do not wish your name to be listed to be exchanged with similar Original material contained in the Bulletin may be organizations in a chapter directory reprinted, provided credit Is given to VNPS and the author, if named. Readers are invited to send letters, Make check payable to VNPS and mail to: news items, or original articles for the editor's con¬ sideration. Items should be typed, on disk in Microsoft VNPS Membership Chair, Blandy Experimental Farm, 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Unit 2, Word ore-mailed to: Editor, 3419 Cold Springs Rd., Boyce, VA 22620 Greenville, VA24440, or [email protected]

Membership dues are tax deductible in the amount they exceed $5. Contributions are tax deductible in accordance with IRS regulations The deadline for the next issue is April 30

Spring 2008 Page 7 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society •Kansas- dant at Tallgrass Preserve. Wetland Water lettuce threatens (Continued from page 7)) plants are especially showy in au¬ submerged vegetation dian grass (Sorghastrum nutans), tumn. Intensely luminous yellow and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) patches of coreopsis beggar-ticks Add water lettuce (Pistia stand four to six feet tall with wav¬ (Bidens polylepis) cover large seep stratiotes) to the list of invasives ing seed heads. The preserve is home areas on the hillsides and can be seen that threaten Virginia's native eco¬ to 71 species of grasses and 28 spe¬ from the Red House Hiking Trail. It is systems. These floating plants, cies of sedges and rushes. also spectacular to see masses of car¬ which usually die off in the win¬ Riparian forests line two of the dinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) and ter, could threaten the freshwater major creeks that flow through the narrow-leaf gerardia (Agalinis submerged aquatic vegetation that preserve. The forest was present along tenuifolia) blooming side by side in is so vital to the health of the these creeks at the time of the original prairie draws. country's east coast rivers. The government surveys in 1856. Some The Tallgrass Prairie National plant was found in the Potomac interesting herbaceous forest species Preserve is a very new addition to the last year and researchers worry include green dragon (Arisaema National Park Service. The preserve that the plant could be capable of dracontium), sweet-scented bedstraw was established by an act of Congress returning and becoming estab¬ (Galium triflorum), Tennessee bladder in 1996. Management continues to lished through seeds deposited on fern (Cystopteris tennesseensis), and evolve, and little by little more areas the river bottoms. The group moni¬ American beakgrain (Diarrhena are returned to their historic condi¬ toring the situation in the Potomac americana). In the springtime before tion and opened to visitation. Some¬ is the Freshwater Submerged the trees have their full set of new day soon there will be American bi¬ Aquatic Vegetation Partnership leaves, those who take the county road son roaming on the preserve prairie. that is coordinated by the Chesa¬ that crosses Fox Creek may spot the VNPS will visit the Tallgrass Prai¬ peake Research Council. If you find great blue heron rookery in the top of rie National Preserve and other sites water lettuce on any of the one large, old sycamore (Platanus during the week of May 31 to June 7. Commonwealth's rivers this year, occidentalis). Common along Fox There are a few spots left on the trip. If please report the finding to the In¬ Creek are bur oaks (Quercus you are interested in getting more trip terstate Commission on the macrocarpa), some estimated to be details, contact Helen Hamilton at Potomac River Basin at nearly 300 years old. The largest bur [email protected] or 757-564-4494 [email protected]. oak at the preserve has a circumfer¬ or see our website, www.vnps.org. ence of 17 feet, 5 inches. Iralee Barnard Springs and wet areas are abun¬ Kansas City Native Plant Society

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A publication of the VIRGINIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY www.vnps.org Conserving wild flowers and wild places

The Potomac Gorge Unmatched diversity at Annual Meeting Gary Fleming, the vegetation ecolo¬ drops down through the bedrock. It was river cut lower and lower, it left numer¬ gist with Virginia's Natural Heritage created when the sea level dropped dur¬ ous bedrock terraces along the sides. Program, stood on a rocky ledge high ing the Pleistocene period, between 1.8 The river has also migrated to the south above the Great Falls of the Potomac million and 11,000 years ago. As the over geological time and continually River explaining the globally carved away at the Virginia imperiled riverside prairie, side, creating an almost con¬ one of over 30 plant commu¬ tinuous line of steep bluffs nities of the Potomac Gorge. and cliffs. Unlike most east¬ Not far away a National ern rivers its size, the Park Service interpretive Potomac has no high dams sign quoted Gary about the and it is powerful enough gorge: "In more than 25 to completely obliterate and years of fieldwork I have not then recreate floodplain seen another site of this size habitats. It has fostered the with comparable diversity of dispersal and migration of land forms, plants, and natu¬ plants over several physi¬ ral communities." ographic provinces creating The Potomac Gorge en¬ rich and diverse plant com¬ compasses a 15-mile stretch munities. Furthermore, from the piedmont province much of the gorge has been above Great Falls to the protected on both sides of the river by federal and local coastal plain at Georgetown, Great Falls is a geologic highlight of where the Potomac River the Potomac Gorge (Photo by Nancy Sorrells) (See Potomac Gorge, page 6) Spiderworts: Not just another pretty face for science Species of Tradescantia, or spi¬ conservatories. Spiderworts are not, ample, T. fluminensis, T. sillamontana, T. derworts, are handsome plants. Sev¬ however, just a bunch of pretty faces. pallida (formerly Setcreasia pallida), eral wild species, including the VNPS Spiderworts have a long history of and T. zebrina (formerly Zebrina wildflower of the Year for 2008 (T. service to science, both in terms of pendula). Each of these frost- virginiana), can be found in eastern teaching and pure research. sensitive species is commonly North America and additional spe¬ Several hothouse species of spi- grown in hanging pots. They also cies grace gardens, and hothouse derwort have a creeping habit, for ex¬ (See Spiderwort science, page 5)

INSIDE: VNPS Annual meeting information and registration form - Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society — - = From the president. Learn to observe native habitats and changes around you Hello VNPSers, This has really been a beautiful spring, even if a little cool early on, and an exciting time for native plants. We have another new registry site, the newly dedicated Merrimac Farm Wild¬ life Management Area in Prince Will¬ iam County. Prince William Chapter president Charles Smith and chapter member Nancy Vehrs worked hard to produce the documents needed in time for a dedication ceremony that took place on April 10. The dedication was followed by a tour of the gorgeous bluebells along Cedar Run. The site also contains a diverse upland forest. On May 1, Phase I of Crow's Nest in Stafford County was dedicated in a ceremony that included our governor and other dignitaries. A tour of the area following the dedication featured Red elderberry at the summitt of Reddish Knob. (Photo by Sally Anderson) showy orchis. Negotiations are under way for the purchase of Phase II, in order to protect showing us a brilliant array that included mountain the whole peninsula. fetterbush in profusion, birds foot violets, wild lupine, Closer to home, my home anyway, was the dedica¬ gay wings, painted trillium and much more. In the midst tion of the wildflower trail at the G. Richard Thompson of a very rainy week the weather was perfect. Wildlife Management Area to Marjorie Arundel, con¬ So, what more could there be? Well, by the time servationist and mother of our long time member Jocelyn you read this we will have taken the VNPS 2008 trip Sladen. This site was the first to be registered under to see the tallgrass prairies in Kansas. Then on June 28 our program, in 1990. The beautiful Sunday afternoon there will be a state tour to Blackwater Ecological Pre¬ ceremony featured millions of Trillium grandiflorum serve. The fall annual meeting hosted by the for which the site is known. Potowmack Chapter should be another great oppor¬ Just recently, the first state field trip to Reddish Knob tunity to see lots of beautiful habitat - yes even in took place. This high mountain west of Harrisonburg Northern Virginia we have lots of very special places has a 360-degree view and a great diversity of plants and plants, and I know the chapter will put on a fun along the way to the top. Thanks much to the members meeting. I hope to see YOU there. of the Shenandoah Chapter for hosting this trip and Your President, Sally Anderson Saving Crow's Nest The special Virginia habitat known as Crow's Nest is now Virginia's newest Natural Area Preserve. The dedica¬ tion of Phase I of the preserve took place on May 1. Vir¬ ginia Governor Tim Kaine spoke at the ceremony. The second phase of the Crow's Nest project will preserve the remainder of the peninsula, and the purchase of that tract of land is currently being negotiated. The photo at right shows Hal Wiggins, right, member of Fredericksburg Area Chapter, being presented with an award for his work to save Crow's Nest. Standing with him is Johnny Mitchell. The new Natural Area Preserve will be under the control of Virginia's Natural Heritage Program. Page 2 July 2008 ... = Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society - Bluebells usher in Merrimac Farm dedication \ ) Merrimac Farm, a more than 300- life but also improve the quality of mile of frontage on Cedar Run - will acre property in Prince William life for all Virginians." protect this important watershed County near Nokesville, is the newest The acquisition of Merrimac and enhance restoration of the addition to the Virginia Department Farm presented a unique opportunity Chesapeake Bay. Cedar Run flows of Game and Inland Fisheries' to protect forested wetlands and ver¬ into Occoquan River, a tributary of (VDGIF) statewide network of wildlife nal pools, some of the most threat¬ the Potomac River. Protecting the management areas. The land features ened habitat in the United States, in wetlands along Cedar Run will also diverse wildlife habitats - wetlands, one of the hardwood forest and upland mead¬ fastest ows - as well as access to Cedar Run. growing Merrimac Farm was formally communi¬ dedicated on April 10 amidst the daz¬ ties in the zling spring display of Virginia blue¬ country. bells. The site boasts one of the larg¬ The prox¬ est single patches of Virginia blue¬ imity to bells in northern Virginia. With highly ur¬ Merrimac Farm WMA, the VDGIF ex- ban popu- pands its statewide network of 1 a t i o n s WMAs to 37 with well over 200,000 makes acres statewide. During the cer¬ Merrimac emony, the farm also became the new¬ Farm an est Registry listing for the Virginia ideal place Native Plant Society. With Merrimac for the more Farm there are now 19 VNPS Regis¬ than 2 mil¬ try sites. The primary requirement for lion north¬ eligibility is that the site have re¬ ern Virginia gional or state significance because residents to of its native plants. Significant sites participate VNPS 2nd vice-president Nicky Staunton (left) and VNPS presi¬ may exhibit an exemplary occur¬ in wildlife- dent Sally Anderson present VDGIF Executive Director Bob rence of a habitat, a plant commu¬ related rec¬ Duncan with a registry plaque on April 10, 2008, at the nity, or a plant species. Sites may reation and Merrimac Farms WMA dedication. (Photo courtesy Lee Walker, include an unusual, persisting education. Virginia Wildlife Magazine) variation of a plant species, or an Plans for assemblage of species. Or the site the site include special managed promote better water quality for may exhibit some quality with the hunts, fishing, wildlife viewing ar¬ northern Virginia. Occoquan Reser¬ unique potential to inspire commu¬ eas, and environmental education voir provides drinking water to more nity awareness. programs. VDGIF will use this site to than 1.2 million people who reside The property was recently ac¬ demonstrate wildlife management in Prince William, Fairfax, Fauquier, quired by the VDGIF with support principles and practices in an urban/ Loudoun and Stafford counties. from the Prince William Conserva¬ suburban setting which will hope¬ Previously the property had been tion Alliance, Marine Corps Base fully serve as a model for other public managed as part of a shooting pre¬ Quantico, and the McDowell family lands in northern Virginia. To protect serve, resulting in excellent wildlife (who owned the property). Virginia the integrity of the property as well as habitat. Merrimac Farm WMA is ad¬ Secretary of Natural Resources L. to minimize user conflicts and nega¬ jacent to Quantico, a 59,000-acre Ma¬ Preston Bryant, Jr. said of the acqui¬ tive impact on habitat, Merrimac Farm rine Corps Base, forming an impres¬ sition, "Merrimac Farm is an excel¬ WMA will have some restrictions. sive contiguous tract of wildlife habi¬ lent example of how partnering or¬ Horseback and bicycle riding, use of tat. The U.S. Marine Corps' involve¬ ganizations can use the Virginia all-terrain vehicles, dog walking and ment in the acquisition is part of a Land Conservation Foundation jogging will be prohibited. federal program to work with state grants to protect important habitat. In addition to protecting wild¬ and local agencies, conservation or¬ This project contributes to Governor life habitat for such species as bob- ganizations, and willing landowners Kaine's goal of conserving 400,000 white quail, songbirds, waterfowl, to protect the mission integrity of mili¬ acres by the time he leaves office. deer, fox, rabbits, frogs and sala¬ tary installations by establishing an Achieving that goal will not only manders, the establishment of easement that will act as a buffer area protect our land and water for wild¬ Merrimac Farm WMA - with its one (See Merrimac Farm, page 8)

July 2008 Page 3 Virginia Native Plant Society Slate of Candidates The following slate of candidates is proposed by the 2008 VNPS Nominating Committee to replace officers, standing committee chairs, directors-at-large, and members-at-large of the Nominating Committee, and to fill existing vacancies in other classes. Please note that there are a number of open seats that need to be filled by enthusiastic volunteers. Please consider giving of your time and talents for the special plants and habitats in our Commonwealth. FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT - Nicky Staunton (2008-2011) is Trail that includes woodland, wetland and meadow. Previous a Charter VNPS member, three-time VNPS President, board employment includes horticultural experience at a golf course member since our founding in 1982, and serves on the board and for a landscape company. She has an associates degree of the Flora of Virginia Project. Now living in Culpeper, she from Northern Virginia Community College and was an in¬ holds chapter memberships in Prince William Wildflower tern at Fern Valley in the U.S. National Arboretum and at the Society, Jefferson Chapter and the Piedmont Chapter, where American Horicultural Society's River Farm. Kim currently she is a board member. She is a committed advocate of pre¬ serves on the Volunteer Opportunities Committee of the Daugh¬ serving Virginia's native flora and habitats. Nicky is also a ter for the Stars Master Naturalist Chapter. freelance illustrator. REGISTRY CO-CHAIRS - John Dodge (2008-2011) is a resi¬ TREASURER - Cathy Mayes (2008-2011) joined VNPS's dent of Annandale and a long-time VNPS member. He received Potowmac Chapter many years ago and transferred to the Pied¬ a masters degree from George Mason University, where he stud¬ mont Chapter when she left as in-house counsel at Sallie Mae ied botany under Ted Bradley. He continues to pursue flora in¬ and moved to Fauquier County. Her special interest is in pre¬ ventory work and works in the herbarium there. He helped the serving the most precious wild places in Virginia and around National Park Service on Prince William Forest Park flora, od the world. In addition to serving as treasurer of the Piedmont Simmons (2008-2011) is registry chair for the Potowmack Chap¬ chapter, she was the first chair and currently serves as secre¬ ter. He is immediate past president of the Botanical Society of tary of Old Rag Master Naturalists based in Madison; is a vice Washington, is active in the Maryland Native Plant Society and president of the Virginia Chapter of the American Chestnut edits the journal Marilandica. He works for the city of Alexan¬ Foundation; and is active in community organizations. She dria as a plant ecologist in the parks planning division. This is maintains an international consulting practice in higher edu¬ the second term as Registry Co-chair for both John and Rod. cation finance and has an interest in an organic dairy. EDUCATION CHAR - Shirley Gay (2008-2011) is a mem¬ CONSERVATION CHAIR - Mary Ann Lawler (2008-2011) ber and program chair of the Potowmack Chapter. Also a long has been an active member of the Virginia Native Plant Society time member of the state board, this will be her third term as since 1999. She has been newsletter editor for the Potowmack Education Chair. During this time she has organized the VNPS Chapter since 2001. She is involved in many environmental Annual Workshops and started a yearly series of state field trips. issues in Arlington County, promoting the protection of native She also serves on the board's Executive Committee. Shirley is a flora and the control of invasive exotic plants. She is on the retired math teacher, and is actively involved with Peace Camp. county's Urban Forestry Commission. She has also been on the DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE (2008-2011) - Kathi Mestayer has board of the Mid-Atlantic Exotic Pest Plant Council. Mary Ann been an enthusiastic student of native plants and habitat retired after 34 years with the U.S. Department of the Interior, for several years. She joined VNPS in 2003 and is also a where she was the Departmental Budget Director for five years. member of MA-EPPC and is a recently-certified Master Natu¬ HORTICULTURE CHAIR - For the past nine years, Kim ralist. She organized a Landscaping With Nature class this Strader (2008-2011) has worked as curatorial assistant with spring. Her yard is a National Wildlife Federation Habitat. the State Arboretum of Virginia at U.Va.'s Blandy Experimen¬ She consults with environmental utilities (water, wastewa¬ tal Farm in Clarke County. Her position involves working ter, solid waste) on management issues for a living. with volunteers in the gardens, keeping plant records, pro¬ ducing labels for the 8,000+ plants in the collection and draft¬ OPEN - PUBLICITY CHAIR; MEMBERSHIP CHAIR; PUB¬ ing interpretive signs. In 2007, Kim became the curatorial as¬ LICATIONS CHAIR; SECOND VICE-PRESIDENT; 2009 sistant for the arboretum's Nancy Larrick Crosby Native Plant NOMINATING COMMITTEE (One Year Term) You can email your PROXY VOTE to: [email protected] r —————————————————- PROXY, 2008 VNPS ANNUAL MEETING PROXY, 2008 VNPS ANNUAL MEETING I hereby authorize the Corresponding Secretary to I hereby authorize the Corresponding Secretary to cast my vote for the slate of candidates proposed cast my vote for the slate of candidates proposed by the Nominating Committee by the Nominating Committee Signed_ Signed_ Address Address

Return by September 5 to: Return by September 5 to: Corresponding Secretary, VNPS Corresponding Secretary, VNPS Blandy Experimental Farm Blandy Experimental Farm 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Unit 2 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Unit 2 Boyce, VA 22620 Boyce, VA 22620 L - — — — — — — — -. — J Virginia Native Plant Society 2008 Annual Meeting

A *) September 12-14, Alexandria, VA "The Potowmack Experience: Flora along the Fall Line"

The 2008 VNPS Annual Meeting will focus on the diversity of plant communities along our national river, the Potomac. The Potowmack Chapter lies in the fall line region, where the Piedmont meets the Coastal Plain. Despite our area's urbanization, spectacular local and national parks line the river and protect dramatic falls, fascinating geologic features, meadows, bogs, and marshes - all along a surprisingly short section of the river. During the weekend, we've lined up a variety of field trips to some outstanding natural areas, gardens, and herbaria. On Friday evening, enjoy a dessert reception followed by a presen¬ tation. Saturday night features the annual meeting, a buffet dinner, and our keynote speaker. We hope you will join us.

Accommodations: Rooms are being held until Friday, August 22 at the Courtyard by Marriott, Alexandria Pentagon South, 4641 Kenmore Ave., Alexandria, VA 22304; $99/2 beds/night plus tax and $10 parking fee. Call (703) 751-4510 and mention VNPS Annual Meeting. Other local hotels include the Comfort Inn (703) 642-3422, Econo Lodge (703) 979-4100 and Best Western (703) 979-4400. Field trips will leave across the street from the Marriott and it is the banquet location; we encourage you to stay there.

Directions to the Marriott: From the south: Traveling on 1-95, take 1-395 north toward Washing¬ ton, D.C. Take Exit 5, East (King Street, Rte. 7). Make first right on Menokin Drive then turn right on Van Dorn Street. Travel one mile, turn left on Kenmore Avenue. From west: Take 1-66 east to Falls Church, exit at Route 7 and head east (right). It's 8 miles to Menokin Drive. Turn right, then right on Van Dorn St. Travel one mile, turn left at Kenmore Ave.

Directions to Green Spring Gardens: From the south or north: From 1-395, take Exit 3B (Little River Turnpike West, Rte 236). Go 1.25 miles, then turn right on Braddock Road. Stay in the right hand lane and turn right onto Witch Hazel Road, the entrance to Green Spring. Go right at the stop sign to the Horticulture Center. From the west: From 1-495, take Exit 52B (Little River Turnpike East, Rte 236). Travel 3.5 miles, turn left on Braddock Road. Follow directions above.

For maps, information on restaurants and links to field trip sites, visit www.vnps.org or contact the state VNPS office at Blandy.

Friday Schedule Registration & Friday events at Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Rd., Alexandria, VA 22312 1- 5 p.m. Registration & 6:30-8 p.m. Registration 2- 5 p.m. Plant sales at Potowmack Chapter propagation beds. Proceeds donated to VNPS. 7- 8 p.m. Dessert reception and social hour; also a book and plant sale to benefit VNPS. 8- 9 p.m. Friday Evening Program: Notable Natural Areas and Flora of the Northern Virginia Region. By Rod Simmons, plant ecologist and VNPS Registry Chair Friday field trips 1. George Mason University Herbarium, Tours at 2, 3, and 4 p.m. Join herbarium director. Dr. Andrea Weeks, for a tour of the Ted R. Bradley Herbarium on the campus of George Mason University. This research facility houses over 60,000 dried and pressed plant specimens, including a synoptic collection of Northern Virginia flora used by students, scientists, and natural resource professionals as a reference collection for ongo¬ ing floristics projects. Gain insight into archival specimen preparation, curation, and how the "business" of taxonomic work gets done! (Directions to herbarium will be sent with registration confirmation). 2. Turkeycock Run Stream Valley Park, 2-5 p.m. Visit an upland Oak-Heath Forest at one of the highest points in Fairfax County. Terrace Gravel Forests are old-age communities characterized by gravelly soils deposited as glacial outwash from the ancestral Potomac River. See heath species, oaks, hickories and rem¬ nant American chestnut as well as some fall wildflowers. Led by Rod Simmons, plant ecologist and VNPS Registry Site chair. Meet at Green Spring Gardens. Moderate 3. Native Plant Garden tour. Green Spring Gardens, 3-5 p.m. The Virginia Native Plant Garden demon¬ stration area features a diversity of showy natives from many regions of Virginia. These natives perform well in garden settings of naturalistic designs to more traditional mixed border, perennial border, shrub border, and rock wall settings. There is also a remnant Magnolia Bog in the garden area. Led by Green Spring plant curator and horticulturist Brenda Skarpohl. Easy

Saturday field trips All trips start at 8:30 a.m. from the parking lot behind Francis C. Hammond Middle School, 4646 Seminary Rd, Alexandria. VA 22304 across from the Marriott. Enter parking lot by turning right off Seminary Rd. at Pickett St. Turn right on Pegram St. to the parking lot. 1. Riverbend Park: Morning kayak trip and afternoon plant walk. Explore the fascinating interaction between geology, geography and plants along the Potomac. Aquatic and riverine plants and geologic features explored by kayak; floodplain and upland forest featured in the afternoon. $30 extra for kayak rental fee includes life jackets and paddles. Led by Martha Slover, geography instructor, George Mason University and VNPS board member. Moderate 2. Great Falls National Park: Explore bedrock terrace habitats along Mather Gorge. Focus on rare, natu¬ ral communities such as the Piedmont/Central Appalachian Riverside Outcrop Prairie and the Potomac Gorge Riverside Outcrop Barrens. Late summer species in flower include Indian grass, big bluestem, west¬ ern sunflower, tall coreopsis, and riverside goldenrod. Extensive rocky shoreline scour zone habitats may be explored. Leaders: Cris Fleming, field ecologist and Maryland Native Plant Society president and Gary Fleming, vegetation ecologist. Division of Natural Heritage. Moderate 3. Mount Vernon Historic Site: For the native plant lover with a history interest: Walk through extensive upland and lowland forests behind the scenes at George Washington's historic Mt. Vernon on the banks of the Potomac. Focus on native trees and shrubs in the wild and those selected by General Washington to landscape the grounds of his home. In the last hour-and-a-half, tour the mansion, outbuildings, formal gardens, threshing barn, demonstration farm, and museum. Led by Dr. Elizabeth Wells, botany professor at George Washington University who specializes in native and naturalized plants of the east coast and early floristics records in 18th-century Virginia. Extra $11 reduced rate entrance fee. Easy to moderate 4. Chain Bridge Flats: See flood-scoured Piedmont bedrock-terrace habitat with unusual flora and veg¬ etation, including several Midwestern disjuncts or range-limit populations, such as prairie redroot, big bluestem, shingle oak, wild blue indigo, and rock grape, as well as various Appalachian, Piedmont, and Coastal Plain species. Slow hiking pace in the rugged terrain of the Flats, easy return on the C&O Canal towpath, about 2-3 miles each way. Trip leader. Dr. Larry Morse, served as Chief Botanist of The Nature Conservancy and as North American Botanist for NatureServe. Moderate to difficult 5. Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge: Focus on early autumn meadow plants, birds and butter¬ flies in diverse wildlife habitat valued for its upland meadows and wetlands on Occoquan Bay. A botani¬ cal survey by Nicky Staunton and Elaine Haug found 699 plant species. Other surveys found 74 butterfly species and 59 dragonfly species. Butterfly tagging demonstration during lunch. Bring binoculars, hat, sun-screen, insect-repellant. Led by Nicky Staunton, Flora of Virginia Project board member and past president, VNPS, and Elaine Haug, Information Manager, Smithsonian Botany Department. Easy ; ; ;-\ 6. Huntley Meadows Park: This 1,500-acre park is set in a coastal plain lowland created by an an¬ cient meander of the Potomac River. Boardwalks and trails wind through freshwater marshes, shrub swamps, forests and meadows. Morning exploration of wetland with a rich variety of fall bloomers likely, such as white turtlehead and climbing hempweed and many dragonflies and birds as well. After lunch and a look at the park herbarium, explore the park's spectacular meadows where tickseed sun¬ flower, purple gerardia, grasses, sunflowers, and many varieties of goldenrod will be out in full force. Led by Karla Jamir, Huntley Meadow's herbarium coordinator and certified naturalist. Easy 7. Gardens of Washington, D.C.: Bill McLaughlin, Curator of the U.S. Botanic Garden will lead a tour of the National Garden. The garden features species from both Piedmont and Coastal plain habi¬ tats that impart the distinctive character of our flora, while emphasizing the garden-worthiness of those plants familiar and unfamiliar to horticulture. An exhibit garden on rainscaping is also at the Botanic Gardens. Next, visit the beautiful, native landscape gardens of the National Museum of the American Indian. After lunch, explore the Smithsonian's Butterfly Garden with an option to visit the Natural History Museum's new Butterfly Exhibit. Easy 8. Suitland Bog, Maryland: Visit one of the most diverse of the surviving Fall Line Terrace Gravel Magno¬ lia Bogs. These bog-like wetlands, while technically spring-fed fens, were once common throughout the Fall Line in the greater Washington, D.C. area, but are now globally rare. Sweetbay magnolia, poison sumac, dangleberry, red milkweed, rough aster and many other characteristic bog species will be seen. Led by Mark Strong, taxonomic botanist with the Smithsonian Institution. Half-day trip. Easy 9. Travilah Serpentine Barrens, Maryland: The only example in our region of the globally rare for¬ ested serpentine barrens community and the largest site of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic region. These communities are underlain by ultramafic rock which produces a soil that can inhibit plant growth. The plant community is characterized by "flatwoods" of oaks, hickories, shortleaf pine, grassy glades and plants such as Leonard's skullcap and wild crabapple. Field trip continues at Blockhouse Point, a rugged forested area with disjunct montane species such as shagbark hickory, white pine, table moun¬ tain pine and cucumber magnolia. Led by Carole Bergmann, forest ecologist with Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission. Moderate 10. Barcroft Magnolia Bog and Terrace Gravel Forest: A half-day walk with a naturalist in and around Arlington's most significant natural plant community. Magnolia Bogs are globally-rare (Gl) wetlands and this one was first described by W. L. McAtee in the early 20th century. Participants will observe a floristically unique patchwork of wooded seeps, a remnant acidic seepage swamp (S3), and the terrace gravel forest that produced the wetlands. Led by Greg Zell, Arlington County Chief Natu¬ ralist. Half-day trip. Moderate

Saturday evening Social hour/Buffet/Annual Meeting and Guest Speaker Courtyard by Marriott, Alexandria Pentagon South, 4641 Kenmore Ave., Alexandria, VA 6- 7 p.m. Social hour and cash bar 7- 8 p.m. Buffet 8 p.m. Keynote Presentation: Whither Potomac Wildness? Proximal to both the Coastal Plain and Piedmont provinces, the tidal-Potomac watershed below the Fall Line retains remnants of an impressive biodiversity once sustained by extensive forestlands. Even as we commemorate lingering examples bequeathed us by history, such as Tidal-Freshwater Marshes, regionally en¬ demic Magnolia Bogs, and pockets of Shell-Marl Forest, the need for conservation looms lest we pass along little in the face of spreading urbanization. Keynote Speaker: Jim Long is coordinator of the Mattawoman Watershed Society and has been in¬ volved in southern Maryland and Potomac River conservation issues for many years. A Ph.D. physicist by training, he has assisted in field studies of Mattawoman Creek and its watershed, including botani¬ cal surveys and freshwater mussel assessments, and has led assays of habitat usage by migratory fish. Dr. Long has held numerous Maryland Scientific Collecting Permits, is a longtime, active member of the Maryland Native Plant Society, and was recently awarded the Conservationist of the Year award by the Southern Maryland Audubon Society. Sunday Schedule VNPS Board Meeting, Long Branch Nature Center 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Field trips are scheduled from 9 a.m.-l p.m. 1. Great Falls Park: This 800-acre national park is located at the Fall Line of the Potomac River where the Piedmont and Coastal Plain meet and offers participants an opportunity to explore a wide variety of habi¬ tats and view colorful and sometimes rare native plants in bloom such as the riverbank goldenrod. Trip led by Marion Lobstein, associate professor of botany at Northern Virginia Community College and Joe Metzger, Maryland Native Plant Society field trip leader. 2. Turkey Run Park: Plant and Geology Walk. Experience a mature forest with pockets of "old-growth" trees over 200 years old including the largest specimens recorded in the Potomac Gorge of sugar maple, tulip poplar, white oak, and American beech. Also see floodplain and upland forests, deep ravines, streams, and rocky bluffs at this key Potomac Gorge site, with interesting geologic features. Led by Rod Simmons, plant ecologist and Tony Fleming, geologist, formerly with the USGS. 3. Barcroft Magnolia Bog: See Saturday trips, number 10.

Registration Form The Potowmack Experience: Flora along the Fall Line n Virginia Native Plant Society 2008 Annual Meeting September 12-14, Alexandria, VA

Name Phone Number

Street City, State, Zip.

Email Signature ** (required) ** Signatures required on all registrations. By signing this form the above registrant shall hold harmless the Virginia Native Plant Society, including its staff and volunteers and those designated to serve as their provider. * * * * * * *

Registration closes on August 30. Please register early, as space is limited Registration FEE: $90 Additional FEES: Kayak Trip $30 Mt. Vernon admission $11 Donation to VNPS

TOTAL Amount Enclosed:

FIELD TRIP CHOICES Friday Herbarium, visit time (circle one): 2 p.m. 3 p.m. 4 p.m.

Saturday Fieldtrips: For information First Choice:_ Contact VNPS office Second Choice manager Karen York at 540-837-1600 or [email protected] Sunday Fieldtrips: First Choice:_ Second Choice

Saturday Box Lunch (circle one): Non-vegetarian Vegetarian

Mail this form (with check payable to VNPS) to: VNPS Annual Meeting, 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Unit 2, Boyce, VA 22620 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society

Figure 1 (left) shows the lower epidermis of a Tradescantia pallida leaf with stomate. Figure 2 shows two Tradescantia pallida cells at the base of stamen hair. When this photographic was taken, granules in the cyto¬ plasm strands were moving in a streaming circulation throughout the cell; most of the volume of these cells is occupied by a watery bag, the vacuole. •Spiderwort science streaming vigorously through the cell mentation whereas the other (reces¬ (Continued from page 1) (figure 2). Few subjects convey dynamic sive) form yields pink. The value of readily form adventitious roots at aspects of cell structure better. these plants is that mutation in the each node and, as a result, they con¬ Of course, the same characteris¬ blue form of the gene generally results stitute excellent material with which tics that make spiderworts useful in loss of ability to make that color. to demonstrate vegetative propaga¬ teaching tools are also beneficial in the So, when this blue-flowered plant is tion (asexual reproduction). Stem tip research lab. Tradescantia stamen exposed to a mutagen, any cell that cuttings about three or four inches hairs have frequently been used in ex¬ suddenly makes pink pigment rather in length, with a few lower leaves perimental studies of cell division. than blue indicates that at least one removed, will in a matter of a week The stamen hairs grow in buds before mutation event happened in that cell. or two, strike root in moist sand, in the flowers open by a series of succes¬ In essence, the scientists simply count perlite, or even in a glass of water. sive cell divisions, which form the pink spots in petals or count the pres¬ For students new to botany, cloning chains up to 30 cells long. Most divid¬ ence of pink stamen hair cells among one's own plants for the first time ing cells will be found at the tip of the the blue ones as a means of quantify¬ can be a valuable and motivating les¬ growing hair. Unlike other plant tis¬ ing the effects of the mutagenic sub¬ son in the ways of plants. sues with many dividing cells (for ex¬ stance being tested. This spiderwort For more advanced classes, spi- ample stem or root tips), stamen hair mutation monitoring system has been derworts are good subjects for micro¬ cells are easily exposed as nearly iso¬ used to study the effects of radiation, scopic study. Leaves are often some¬ lated cells, not buried among a three and many different chemicals, in¬ what succulent, so they can be torn dimensional mass of non-dividing cluding air pollution. In fact, decades to yield thin sheets of epidermal cells cells. Consequently, both observation ago these spiderwort hybrids were that, when mounted in a drop of wa¬ and manipulation are facilitated. The intentionally exposed to atomic bomb ter on a glass slide, reveal basic as¬ dividing cells can easily be bathed in blasts as part of the government's ef¬ pects of plant cell structure, includ¬ chemical solutions or, with the right forts to understand the power un¬ ing cell walls, the nucleus, and large equipment, experimental molecules leashed in nuclear reactions. watery vacuoles. And scattered can be micro-injected directly into the Our last example of spiderwort among the ordinary epidermal cells, cell to test their impact on the divi¬ science relates to kinder and gentler one can easily find stomates, the ad¬ sion process. themes. In the 1930s many scientists justable pores that control both pho¬ Spiderworts also have an exten¬ were engaged in an effort to unite the tosynthesis and water loss (figure 1). sive history of use in monitoring the basic framework of evolutionary Flowering spiderworts allow for even effects of mutagens, substances that theory expounded by Darwin with easier microscopic preparations: a cause changes in the structure of newer developments in population wet mount of a single stamen, DNA. For these studies, one particu¬ genetics and ecology. The result came plucked from any open flower with lar spiderwort hybrid, a cross between to be known as the "modern synthe¬ fine forceps, yields hundreds of cells smooth spiderwort (T. ohiensis) and sis." One key development brought linked together, much like a string of prairie spiderwort (T. occidentalis), out in this era was clarification of the pearls; these chains of cells are the has been used most often. One par¬ role of natural hybridization in evo¬ stamen hairs characteristic of all Tra¬ ticular clone resulting from this cross lution and speciation. Natural hy¬ descantia species. With high power, contains two forms of a gene that con¬ brids of spiderworts, especially hy¬ the living cytoplasm of stamen hair trols flower color. One (dominant) brids involving T. virginiana, T. cells can usually be seen in motion, form of the gene results in blue pig¬ (See Spiderworts, page 8)

July 2008 Page 5 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society •Potomac Gorge (Continued from page 1) forest communi¬ public ownership. As a result the Na¬ ties in the up¬ tional Park Service and the Nature Con¬ lands and bot¬ servancy consider it one of the most bio¬ tomlands, a logically significant natural areas in swamp, rocky the East. bluffs and cliffs, A drive along the George Washing¬ bedrock terraces, ton Memorial Parkway on the Virginia and the rugged side along the Potomac from below ravine at Diffi¬ Great Falls Park to Georgetown over cult Run. looks the river through pleasant sce¬ The plant nic woodlands, much of which has not communities been cut since the Civil War or even nearer the river longer. But these are not just any wood¬ below Great lands overlooking a river. Scientists, in¬ Falls are of sig¬ cluding Fleming, have identified over nificant conservation concern. On flats (Sorghastrum nutans) are two other di¬ 30 distinct plant communities in the along the rocky rim of the terrace are agnostic species of this community type. Potomac Gorge, ranging from typical two rare forest communities that are The other community is the mixed hardwood forests, to scoured periodically by catastrophic Potomac Gorge riverside outcrop bar¬ boulderfield forests and woodlands, to floods. First is the Riverside Bedrock Ter¬ ren, which is very xeric, exposed and unique and rare riverside barrens and race Pine Woodland, which is known frequently scoured. This community prairies. The gorge has more than 1,400 only from the Potomac Gorge in Virginia contains sparse vegetation, with a few different plant species, including 400 and Maryland and the New River Gorge low shrubs and herbs occupying crev¬ occurrences of 200 rare plants and in West Virginia. It is dominated by the ices and small soil or moss mats. A natural communities. Three of its plant Virginia or scrub pine (Pinus virginiana) dwarfed form of the fetterbush communities can be found nowhere with eastern red cedar (Juniper us (Eeucothoe racemosa) is the most char¬ else in the world. virginiana var. virginiana), stunted oaks, acteristic shrub. The two most numer¬ Areas up and down the gorge are and various shrubs. Second, the ous and characteristic herbs in this type an attraction for botanists. From season Potomac River Bedrock Terrace Oak - are the little bluestem (Schizachyrium to season an amazing variety of plants Hickory Forest is endemic to the Potomac scoparium), stiff aster (Ionactis is on display. This article will focus on Gorge. Nowhere else in the world can be linariifolius) and the sticky goldenrod those areas mostly on the Virginia side, found this combination of post oaks (Solidago racemosa), which is not which will be featured during this fall's (Quercus stellata), fringetrees known outside the Potomac Gorge in VNPS annual meeting. (Chionanthus virginicus), hop trees either Virginia or Maryland. This com¬ Within the calm floodplains of the (Ptelea trifoliata), and downy arrow-wood munity type is considered globally rare Piedmont in Fairfax County's Riverbend (Viburnum rafinesquianum) as well as and is endemic to the Potomac. Park above the Great Falls, springtime characteristic grasses and sedges such as In the middle section of the Potomac visitors can see harbinger of spring eastern needlegrass (Piptochaetium Gorge, the north-facing river bluffs in (Erigenia bulbosa), ramps (Allium avenaceum), Bose's panic grass Scotts Run Nature Preserve and Tur¬ tricoccum), white trout lily (Erythronium (Dichanthelium boscii), Pennsylvania key Run Park contain large intrusions americanum), sessile trillium (Trillium sedge (Carex pensylvanica), and soft of basic igneous rocks that weather into sessile), and numerous other ephemer- panic grass (Dichanthelium laxiflorum). soils with a higher silt content and als under an abundance of paw-paw On the exposed rocks in the lower higher calcium and magnesium levels (Asmina triloba). In summer they can portions of the bedrock terrace; the than other upland soils in the gorge. The find among others: Deptford pink (Di- gorge rim, and the river channel shelf highly mesic and fertile ravines and anthus armeria), butterfly weed (AscT are two other plant communities that lower slopes of these bluffs support a epias tuberosa), fringed loosestrife both rank G1 and SI. One is the Central Basic Mesic Forest. This community has (Lysimachia ciliata), American german¬ Appalachian/Piedmont Riverside Prai¬ an herb layer dominated largely by der (Teucrium canadense), and sweet- rie. This plant community contains prai¬ spring ephemerals. Two of the most scented Indian plantain (Cacalia rie species such as big bluestem abundant herbs are blue cohosh suaveolens), which is rare in Virginia. (Andropogon gerardii), narrowleaf (Caulophyllum thalictroides) and har- Great Falls National Park has not mountain-mint (Pycnanthemum binger-of-spring (Erigenia bulbosa). only the powerful 60-foot waterfall vista, tenuifolium), and dense blazing-star This community has a mixed overstory but several distinct plant communities (Liatris spicata). The wild blue indigo of sugar maple (Acer saccharum), beech within its 800 acres including several (Baptisia australis) and Indian-grass (See Annual Meeting, page 7) Page 6 July 2008 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society •Annual Meeting adapted to these habitats and covers seasons. Access to these parks is some boulderfields in the late summer. through local streets. (Continued from page 6) Scott's Run itself has such a vari¬ Lastly, the Potomac Gorge ends on ^ fFagus grandifolia), tulip poplar ety of soils and conditions that it sup¬ the coastal plain with Theodore (Liriodendron tulipifera), basswood ports a great diversity of plant life. One Roosevelt Island, a memorial to one of ('Tilia americana var. americana), white survey found 175 species of plants in our great conservation presidents. The ash (Fraxinus americana), and bittemut bloom from March to June as well as 20 island contains an upland forest, hickory (Carya cordiformis), with abun¬ species of fern. swamp forest/floodplain, and tidal dant paw-paw and spicebush (Lindera One floristically diverse plant com¬ marsh. Nearly 50 tree species have been benzoin) in the understory. The commu¬ munity is found especially on Chain identified on the island, including tu¬ nity has a distinctive herbaceous layer Bridge Flats. It is the Central Appala¬ lip poplar, beech, hickory, and several containing many species not found in chian/Piedmont Bedrock Floodplain species of oak with willow, ash, and other upland forests of the area. Two of Woodland, a mixed deciduous wood¬ sycamore in the wetter areas. In addi¬ the locally abundant, and most diagnos¬ land of several floodplain trees that oc¬ tion to the trees, other woody vegeta¬ tic, are twinleaf (Jeffersonia diphylla) and cupies the active channel shelf in areas tion includes spicebush and poison ivy. toadshade trillium (Trillium sessile). In dominated by bedrock outcrops. It has Approximately 275 herbaceous plant spring Turkey Run Park also has a won¬ pockets of deep soil deposition, de¬ species have been identified on the is¬ derful show of Virginia bluebells pressed channels, and small pools. The land. The island is close to Memorial (Mertensia virginica), Dutchman's trees in this community are very sus¬ Bridge and the Lincoln Memorial and breeches, and squirrel corn. ceptible to uprooting and mechanical has bicycle access all the way down to Turkey Run Park also contains very damage, which keeps it open. The com¬ Mount Vernon at the end of the GW steep riverfront areas with huge boulders bination of variable microhabitats, good Parkway. Access to the park is from the and other rocks that have broken off from light, and very fertile soils fosters in¬ northbound lanes of the parkway. bedrock outcroppings. They support credible species richness, which may While it is impossible to provide a a distinctive forest community (Cen¬ be endemic to the Potomac Gorge drain¬ full length discussion of all the plant tral Appalachian/Piedmont Rich age. Chain Bridge Flats also contains communities and species of the Boulderfield Forest) of plants able to root examples of the rare riverside prairie Potomac Gorge flora, we hope that these deeply in the soils between the rocks. mentioned above. descriptions whet your appetite enough (Sugar maple, basswood and white ash Down river closer to Georgetown for you to come to the annual meeting ^ ‘ are the principal trees, usually forming are Arlington County's Gulf Branch and see for yourself the botanical rich¬ open stands that are subject to frequent Nature Area and Potomac Overlook ness the area has to offer, in spite of its windthrows because of difficult rooting Regional Park both of which have trails very urban setting. conditions. Bladdernut (Staphylea down to the Potomac and both of which Much of this article is based on Gan/ Fleming’s trifolia) is usually the most abundant have protected a wide variety of native narrative accompanying his presentation on the and diagnostic shrub. Pale jewelweed flora that can be seen through all the Vegetative Ecology of the Potomac Gorge. (Impatiens pallida) is especially well

See the address label for your membership expiration date The Bulletin VNPS Membership/Renewal Form ISSN 1085-9632 Name(s)_ is published five times a year Address_ (Feb., April, June, August, Nov.) by City_State_Zip_ Virginia Native Plant Society _Individual $30 _Student $15 Blandy Experimental Farm _Family $40 _Associate (groups) $40* 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Unit 2 _Patron $50 _Sustaining $100 Boyce, VA 22620 _Life $500 (540) 837-1600 *Please designate one person as delegate for Associate membership To give a gift membership or join additional chapters: Enclose dues, name, address, and [email protected] chapter (non-voting memberships in any other than your primary chapter are $5) www.vnps.org

I wish to make an additional contribution to_VNPS or_Chapter in the Sally Anderson, President amount of_$10_$25_$50_$100_$(Other)_ Nancy Sorrells, Editor Original material contained in the Bulletin may be _Check if you do not wish your name to be listed to be exchanged with similar organizations in a chapter directory reprinted, provided credit is given to VNPS and the author, if named. Readers are invited to send letters, news items, or original articles for the editor's con¬ Make check payable to VNPS and mail to: sideration. Items should be typed, on disk in Microsoft VNPS Membership Chair, Blandy Experimental Farm, 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Unit 2, Word or e-mailed to: Editor, 3419 Cold Springs Rd., Boyce, VA 22620 Greenville, VA24440, or [email protected] The deadline for the next issue is August 10. Membership dues are tax deductible in the amount they exceed $5. Contributions are tax deductible in accordance with IRS regulations.

July 2008 Page 7 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society •Merrimac Farm (Continued from page 3) in its natural state," said Quantico 2002 put his property at risk of de¬ outside the installation's existing Base Commander Colonel Charles velopment. The continued support of border to protect against incompat¬ Dallachie. "We are happy to partner Col. McDowell's heirs and their com¬ ible development that could impact with the Commonwealth of Virginia mitment to the preservation of current or future military operations and the Prince William Conservation Merrimac Farm for public uses has occurring within the current instal¬ Alliance to honor the wishes of the been instrumental to the success of lation boundaries, as well as to sup¬ McDowell family and protect this land this five-year effort. Gail McDowell port local land conservation efforts. from development. I look forward to said, "Our family is committed to con¬ Merrimac Farm is the first acquisi¬ other opportunities with willing part¬ servation. We are delighted that the tion of its kind in the Common¬ ners for compatible land use efforts on property will be protected and avail¬ wealth of Virginia. all sides of the base." able to the public." "This partnership not only allows Merrimac Farm was originally For the complete list of state-owned us to continue our mission of training owned by Col. Dean McDowell, who WMAs, visit the WMA section of the Marines, but also lets the local commu¬ purchased the property after World VDGIF website at http:// nity enjoy important Virginia habitat War II and whose untimely death in www.dgif.virginia.gov/wmas/.

•Spiderworts-

(Continued from page 5) to other groups of naturally hybrid¬ den hybrids combining the genetic ohiensis, and T. subaspera, were stud¬ izing plants (e.g.. Iris species) and, characters of Virginia spiderwort (T. ied at this time by Edgar Anderson eventually, he published his most fa¬ virginiana), smooth spiderwort (T. and Robert Woodson of the Missouri mous work, Introgressive Hybridiza¬ ohiensis), and wide-leaf spiderwort Botanical Garden. Anderson, in par¬ tion in 1949; this book includes a (T. subaspera). ticular, working with spiderwort hy¬ thorough analysis of how genes can Spiderworts may appear to be brids, developed something called flow from populations of one species among the most delicate and fleeting the hybrid index, a method to quan¬ through hybrids into populations of of our native wildflowers but they tify the relative contribution of differ¬ another species. Anderson's work and their relatives have had a pro-^^ ent parents in the genetic makeup of with spiderwort hybrids is com¬ found and lasting impact on the sci¬ hybrid offspring. Building on these memorated in the name Tradescantia ence of botany. early studies with spiderworts, x andersoniana, the name applied to —W. John Hayden, VNPS Botany Chair Anderson extended his observations what is now a common group of gar-

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Don't tidy up your Special Biological Areas need winter landscape As the growing season comes to attention in new forest plan an end, it's time for you to relax. Don't feel compelled to "tidy up" for the All national forests must have a whether the Forest Service adopted all winter. All those standing stems and Land Management Plant, commonly the areas NHP recommended. leaves and seedheads from the sum¬ called a Forest Plan. In the 1970s, Con¬ Even without this information, it mer/fall flowering season provide gress enacted laws that determine what is apparent that three areas, in addi¬ habitat, food, shelter, and nesting goes into a Revised Forest Plan; clari¬ tion to those proposed, should be des¬ materials for wildlife. "Cleaning" the fying regulations and policies were later ignated as SBAs. The first concerns the flower beds removes important food issued by the Forest Service. several SBAs north of the Kelley Moun¬ and cover sources for migrating birds Work on the George Washington tain Roadless Area. These SBAs pro¬ and over-wintering wildlife. National Forest Revised Forest Plan is tect the Shenandoah Valley sinkhole Herbaceous Plants. Stands of well underway and will provide the ponds. There is a need for change to dead plant material retain moisture framework within which other project expand the SBAs (or to designate a and stabilize ground temperature; decisions can be made on a case-by¬ special area of some other kind) to pro¬ the roots have aerated the soil and case and site-specific basis. tect the forest that surrounds and con¬ the stems, leaves and spent flower For areas of special habitat con¬ nects the ponds/SBAs. This would heads break the force of rain, and cern, please read these abridged com¬ enable management of the entire area protect the ground surface from pack¬ ments made August 8 by the Southern to be more consistent and comprehen¬ ing. Small birds can be seen scratch¬ Environmental Law Center to the Wash¬ sive and would protect linkages be¬ ing in the soft, open soil, feeding on ington National Forest plan revision tween the ponds. This is the only op¬ worms, grubs, and insect egg cases. that included research from the Wilder¬ portunity on the National Forest to Plantings of non-invasive or¬ ness Society, the Southern Appalachian protect this type of habitat, and efforts namental grasses provide cover and Forest Coalition, the Virginia Wilder¬ to protect Valley sinkhole ponds on seeds for a variety of wildlife spe¬ ness Committee and Wild Virginia. private land have been difficult, expen¬ cies. Or, an unmowed area of lawn Special Biological Areas sive, and at times impossible. There is allows the meadow wildflowers There is a need for change to desig¬ precedent for this type of larger con¬ and grasses to emerge, increasing nate as Special Biological Areas (SBAs) servation area - the Shenandoah Crest the diversity of plants. Many of the all areas recommended for such desig¬ SBA, which protects the Cow Knob plants we consider weeds produce nation by the Virginia Department of Salamander and its habitat. flowers and seeds that are used by Conservation and Recreation, Natural Second, an SBA is needed to pro¬ wildlife. Native wildflowers and Heritage Program (NHP). It is not clear tect wood turtles and their habitat in grasses are particularly desirable from the discussion in the draft Compre- the Paddy Run/Cove Run area. Wood (See Wildlife, page 5) hensive Evaluation Report (CER) (See Forest plan, page 4)

INSIDE: Return of the natives, pg. 3 Virginia Sneezeweed, pg. 7 ... _ . = Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society == From the president. VNPS supporters deserve a round of applause At our annual meeting recently, we elected our new board the interaction of local geology and flora were interesting. members for the coming term. The board will no doubt take on The heat was a little bit of a surprise to all of us. I hope to a slightly different character, although there will still be many have a little more coverage in the next newsletter. familiar faces. Some chapter presidents will change as well. I Charles Darwin, in his Narrative of the Surveying would like to extend my appreciation to those who are cur¬ Voyages of Adventure and Beagle, wrote "...a traveller rently serving VNPS, both at the state and chapter level. The should be a botanist, for in all views plants form the chief dedication of those who attend our meetings and make our embellishment.'' Today we often say that plants from a re¬ society function cannot be overestimated. So, to all of you, gion give a person a sense of place. I feel I've had the op¬ my deepest thanks. I'm also looking forward to the new year portunity to see quite a few different places this year, and and working with our new board members. recognizing the components of the green background adds The Potowmack Chapter and their President Marianne an interesting layer to my travels. I hope it has added some¬ Mooney did a fine job with the meeting. I would like to say thing to your journeys too, and that we will all keep learning thanks to all who made this event happen. Our banquet about our native plants together. and speaker were fantastic, and the field trips focusing on Your President, Sally Anderson VNPSers explore Kansas prairie ecosystems of herbaceous plants and breaking mowers deter haying; it which grow in the could only be grazed. So most of the grass. We would early settlers quickly moved further probably have lost a west. This fortunate situation is the rea¬ few of our group son that it exists today in a condition so since they tended to near to its natural state—otherwise, the dive right into the flora settlers would have transformed it be¬ without regard to yond recognition. ticks and snakes. Larry and Linda configured the Thirdly, I was some¬ trip to include six separate and distinc¬ what disappointed tive venues, each presenting a differ¬ not to have seen a ent perspective on how the prairie eco¬ tornado (from about system functions and why it is impor¬ 20 miles away) as ad¬ tant to preserve it. The vegetation is vertised on the dominated by four perennial, warm- evening news prior season native grasses; big bluestem, The VNPS group explores the prairie at the Konza Research to our departure. little bluestem, Indiangrass, and Station. On the right is guide Valerie Wright. The trip turned switchgrass. The remainder is made (Photo by Larry and Linda Wilcox) out to be much, much up of hundreds of species of other more than a botanical grasses, composites, legumes, and The Virginia Native Plant Society- field trip. Set up and led by Larry and forbs. Average annual precipitation is sponsored trip to the Kansas tallgrass Linda Wilcox of Virginia Beach, it com¬ 33 inches with 75 percent falling dur¬ prairie region was extremely interesting prised a multi-faceted view of the en¬ ing the growing season. The various and satisfying. To begin with, it was com¬ tire area and ecosystem from several groups did not always agree on the best pletely different from all preconceptions perspectives, each tied to the environ¬ mix of the various plants or how to that I had formed. I thought Kansas was ment and the flora. Native prairie grass¬ achieve it. We were treated to each flat—a tabletop; this region was rolling, lands are the rarest and most threat¬ group's opinion and approach and it grassy, rocky hills several hundred feet ened of all our ecosystems and are cur¬ became apparent that no one currently high, never very steep, but scenic in its rently under intense scrutiny to deter¬ knows the complete answer. This is an vistas and panoramas. From the title of mine how they work and how they can ongoing investigation with two main the trip, I really expected the grass to be be restored and sustained. This area of variables: burning and grazing. The is¬ tall. Actually, it was only about a foot to Kansas, the Flint Hills, is unique in that sues are: how often to burn and how eighteen inches, having been burned a it has very shallow rocky soil, under¬ often and how heavily to graze. The ob¬ month earlier. This was fortunate be¬ laid with alternating layers of lime¬ jectives range from providing maximum cause otherwise we would never have stone and shale. It could not be farmed; plant diversity, represented as the key to been able to find the numerous species breaking plows defeat crop farming (See Kansas, page 8) Page 2 Fall 2008 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society Gardening with natives is easier

A few years ago I stood next to a she knew that raking leaves and mow¬ botanist from the Virginia Department ing a lawn, even a small one, would of Conservation and Recreation. To¬ not be in the picture. So she opted for gether we visually surveyed a tract of native - to date over 70 species thrive land near the western slopes of the in her tiny town lot. Blue Ridge. It was not your ideal gar¬ "Natives are easier and prettier. den spot: sandy, acidic soil, marshy in They are already acclimated to the area the spring, and bone dry by late sum¬ and are not as invasive," she ex¬ mer. Yet the land was relatively lush, plained. "I read an article about hav¬ teeming with some of the rarest flora ing a woodland garden in town and I Katherine Smith shows off a cultivar of in Virginia such as the yellow Virginia decided to copy it." the native black locust, a Virginia native. sneezeweed that covered the ground Now tufts of spring ephemerals greet (Photos by Nancy Sorrells) as far as the eye could see. passersby along the front walk, while the Along the edges of the same town, Here in this inhospitable environ¬ oranges of native azaleas and the yellows a more suburban yard was the chal¬ ment, I learned, was a snapshot of habi¬ of lady's slippers nod beside the walk to lenge faced by Peggy Dyson-Cobb who tat as it existed before Europeans ar¬ the back patio. Brilliant green arbor vitae immediately began plotting the demise rived in the New World bringing with form a living screen between her and a of her traditional lawn when she them, by accident and on purpose, neighbor. A shady comer hosts ferns, and moved in a number of years ago. "The plant and animal immigrants that al¬ moss forms a carpet among mounds of American style of watering and fertil¬ tered the landscape of Virginia. In green plants gathering energy for their izing so you can mow more just never many ways, those non-human immi¬ summer bloom. really made sense to me," she ex¬ grants, who arrived in Virginia start¬ Her native experiment has even plained. Now she has perennial sun¬ ing in 1607, changed the common¬ forged a friendship with the city pub¬ flowers, black chokeberry, native petu¬ wealth as much as the early settlers. lic works department staff who sup¬ nias, blue eyed grass, cardinal flowers, Queen Anne's lace and chicory, for in¬ ply her with as many leaves as she and showy goldenrods. Instead of stance, are among those early hitchhik¬ needs for mulching around her plants. crown vetch or vinca as a ground cover, ers as are later even less welcome in¬ Although she carefully planned her she encourages wild geraniums. vaders such as purple loosestrife, au¬ garden to be a mix of native perennials Dyson-Cobb, also in the Upper tumn olive, and tree of heaven. Those and shrubs, some members of her gar¬ James Chapter, now celebrates the aliens, who arrived without their natu¬ den, such as the native mosses and blooming of the native twinleaf and ral predators and thus with no checks ferns, simply knew an inviting place takes in the fragrance of the chokeber- and balances on their proliferation, when they saw one and appeared ries that "smell just like honey" as well often have free rein, squeezing out na¬ when offered the right environment. as the other aromas that "waft around tive plants and the animals that de¬ pend on them and drastically degrad¬ me as I am weeding." "Once I put them in," she says of ing the habitat around them. the natives that she propagates by seed Few if any invasives existed in the and cuttings, "I don't have to fool with space where I stood with the botanist. them. They seem to deal really well with The conditions were harsh enough whatever the weather has to offer." and unique enough that immigrants, In fact, being able to work with without an evolutionary strength Mother Nature, not battle her, is the real borne over thousands of years, could secret to gardening with natives. Take not compete. the fringe tree for instance. "The birds And that, then, is the beauty of love the berries and I let the birds plant Virginia's native plants. If you want a them for me!" she said. beautiful garden that is an ecologically Master Gardener and Upper James sound wildlife habitat, comparatively President Katherine Smith sees native low maintenance, and adaptable to plants as the answer to the endless unique or troublesome spots, then go¬ variety of gardening situations that ing native is a no-brainer. people encounter. On her own Faye Lowry of the Upper James Rockbridge County farm, she encour¬ River Chapter could not agree more. A ages certain plants such as viburnum few years ago when she gave up her around the house, others such as ha¬ farmhouse for the convenience of Faye Lowry stands next to a flame azalea in zelnuts and shrubby forms of dogwood downtown life in historic Lexington, the side yard of her native garden located in the heart of a historic downtown district. (See Return of the natives, page 6) Fall 2008 Page 3 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society

•Forest plan at the VA/WV state line separates the SBA to "general forest" suitable for two streams, with Paddy Run flowing timber production and harvest, road (Continued from page 1) into Cedar Creek and Cove Run flow¬ construction, wind energy develop¬ turtles are a Virginia-listed Threatened ing into West Virginia and Waites Run. ment, and available for oil and gas species and are ranked by Nature Serve The Forest Supervisor's response to leasing without surface protection. as S2 - Imperiled in the state. The Paddy Wild Virginia's October 2006 letter The area should be designated an Run/Cove Run area, where the wood stated that the GW would consider the SBA. The Snake Run Ridge area en¬ turtle population is centered on two information in the plan revision. The compasses this SBA, another reason small watersheds composed almost draft CER and plan, however, reflect to protect the entirety of Snake Run entirely of National Forest land, repre¬ no such consideration. Ridge as a special area. sents the best opportunity for a viable We understand that wood turtles Regarding the management of population of wood turtles over the also have been found in other areas of SBAs, SBAs are identified as unsuitable long term. The turtles' habitat on pri¬ the GW. These areas also should be con¬ for timber production, timber harvest¬ vate land in Northern Virginia is un¬ sidered for designation as SBAs. Fur¬ ing and road construction. They should der extreme pressure from development ther, the occurrence of wood turtles in continue to be so identified. They also and their protection on private land can¬ these areas demonstrates the need to should be unsuitable for salvage har¬ not be ensured. The Paddy Run/Cove designate the turtle as a "species of con¬ vesting, temporary road construction, Run area represents the best opportunity cern" and to adopt specific additional and construction of wind generation to secure (or at least promote) the contin¬ provisions in the revised plan (i.e. stan¬ sites. Any oil and gas leasing should be ued existence and sustainability of wood dards) to protect them in areas of the with "no surface occupancy." turtles through the protection of the GW that may not be designated SBAs. Compiled by Sarah Francisco of the turtles and their habitat. Third, NHP recommended the For¬ Southern Environmental Law Center The Draft CER states that a habitat est Service designate a Peters Mountain (www.southernenvironment.org) management strategy is being developed North SBA. This recommended SBA is by the Forest Service and the Virginia and described in the NHP report cited in the West Virginia wildlife agencies and claims What the plan is, and isn't draft CER and linked to from that docu¬ that" [t]he strategy will be used to provide Just as important as what this ment. {See I.T. Wilson, VA DCR, NHP, information for the planning process." The Revised Forest Plan (FP) does are Biological Diversity Protection on the CER and the plan, however, do not reflect those things it does not do. Here are GWNF, First Supplement, Natural Heri¬ any information about wood turtles or any some differences. For complete in¬ tage Technical Report 00-10, Unpub¬ habitat management strategy and, in fact, formation about the GW plan, in¬ lished report submitted to the USDA provide no evidence of the required plan¬ cluding documentation, meeting Forest Service, at 74-75 (2000).) ning to ensure the sustainability of the schedules, and access to a comment This report explained that Peters wood turtle, a vital element of the GW's area go to: (http://www.fs.fed.us/ Mountain North "encompasses an native diversity. (See NEMA, 16 U.S.C. § r8/gwj/forestplan). unusually large contiguous stand of 1604(g)(3)(B) (provide for diversity of ani¬ Federally-listed Threatened old-growth oak-dominated forest. The and Endangered Species: The FP mal communities); 2008 NEMA Regula¬ old growth occurrence occupies ap¬ DOES provide desired conditions, tions, 36 C.F.R. § 219.10(b) (sustain eco¬ proximately 3,600 acres on the crests objectives and guidelines to guide logical systems and support diversity of and middle to upper side slopes of the on-the-ground management of native animal species).) northernmost ridge of Peters Moun¬ projects and activities. All of this is Protection of wood turtles in a Paddy tain." On April 2,1996, Natural Heri¬ focused on allowing the forest to Run/ Cove Run SB A is essential to pro¬ tage wrote to Ranger Snow describing contribute to sustaining or provid¬ vide for the continued existence of this the 3,600-acre area as "one of the larg¬ ing habitat conditions for species species in the state of Virginia and the est known contiguous occurrences of listed for protection under the En¬ USFS Southern Region. In addition, the Appalachian oak forest in old growth dangered Species Act. The FP DOES wood turtle should be a species of con¬ NOT decide which species will be condition in Virginia and perhaps in cern in the revised plan, since additional protected under the Endangered all of the central Appalachians." provisions beyond the general plan com¬ Species Act. NHP proposed a 4,051-acre SBA ponents are needed to provide appropri¬ Timber Harvests: The FP to include a buffer around the old ate ecological conditions for this species. DOES identify long-term sustained growth and a rare mountain pond (See 36 C.F.R. § 219.10(b)(2).) yield and DOES identify which community which supports a large Steven Krichbaum developed and lands are suitable for timber har¬ population of the federally endangered proposed an SBA in the Paddy Run vesting but DOES NOT identify in¬ northeastern bulrush (Scirpus area for the wood turtles. That proposal dividual areas that will be offered ancistrochaetus). "Logging or road con¬ was endorsed by the NHP. There is a fur¬ for sale. It DOES provide guidelines struction would destroy the integrity of ther need to extend the SBA beyond to determine where and how sales this unusually large stand of old-growth can occur but DOES NOT approve Paddy Run to Cove Run, which also sup¬ forest." Yet the draft plan proposes to site-specific timber sales. ports wood turtles. A small finger ridge allocate the entire NHP-recommended Page 4 _ —Fall 2008 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society

• Wildlife - ing wildlife all season. It's important (Continued from page 1) to place the food close to the cover to for native birds and small mammals, minimize the exposure of feeding wild¬ as well as winter cover crops of clo¬ life to weather conditions and preda¬ ver, rye or timothy. tion; these two factors account for more Frost and snow on standing than 90 percent of winter mortality. plants is beautiful - one of the most Tree fruit becomes sweeter during important things to cultivate in your freeze and thaw. The fruit is available garden is your eye. Hydrangea and to provide resident wildlife species sedum remain upright over the win¬ food in lean times during the winter ter and offer visual dimension to the and into early spring, and for return¬ garden landscape. ing migratory birds. If space is a limita¬ Twinleaf seed pods Nature has no off-season! Early tion in your yard, consider winter food Illustration by blooming witch hazel and highbush plants first. They are the most impor¬ Nicky Staunton blueberry will raise dull winter spirits. tant because natural foods are scarce Woody Plants. Fruit and nut-bear¬ during this season. ing trees like oaks, walnuts, sourwood Evergreens should occupy a sig¬ them. American holly trees with ever¬ and beech provide important winter nificant portion of a wildlife habitat green leaves are particularly attractive food for resident birds. Their natural garden; dense shrub and evergreen (na¬ to winter birds who will plant a varied cavities are used for nesting and shel¬ tive red cedar) plantings provide valu¬ garden beneath its branches. ter by many wildlife species. Fruits able escape and roosting areas and shel¬ Dead trees, brush piles. A "snag" that persist on the tree over the winter ter in rain, heat and harsh winter is a dead or dying tree. Snags are like such as winterberry, hollies, and ce¬ weather. In addition to providing criti¬ gold in the wildlife world, used as nest¬ dar are especially desirable. Shrubs cally needed winter cover, these woody ing sites, perching sites, as food like beauty berry, bayberry, and hearts- areas provide important nesting and sources and to establish territory. a-bustin' remain attractive to winter¬ feeding areas for a wide variety of wood¬ Brush piles provide nesting and den land songbirds. During all seasons, sites, and escape cover for many spe¬ they are cover for escaping predators. cies of wildlife, including small mam¬ They block wind for feeding areas and mals, birds, amphibians and reptiles. in summer, they are used as nesting Piling the prunings from your yard in sites. The sap, needles, twigs, buds and a secluded corner will create a brush seeds, and insects that make their pile that grows over the years. homes in evergreens, are food for wild¬ And where are the butterflies and life. Cavities in the trees are often used moths during the winter? Most have for nesting, roosting and shelter. formed their cocoons high in native Vines like poison ivy and greenbrier trees - the oaks, willows, hackberry, may be unfriendly to humans, but birds and maples. When pruning these and small mammals love the berries - woody species in February, the they are not allergic to the oils or both¬ branches should go in a brush pile to ered by the thorns! Virginia creeper is a permit development of the adult forms; native fruit bearing vine often natural¬ burning or hauling dead woody plant ized by wild birds. It is an important food material is a loss to native wildlife. Pol¬ Milkweed source to over 35 species of birds. Unfor¬ linators are weathering over in brush seed pods tunately it is a poison ivy look-a-like and piles — don't burn! It's likely that is often destroyed for that reason. praying mantis egg cases are over¬ Illustration Birds play an important part in wintering there. by planting a natural habitat. Natural Diversity. A garden landscape Barbara scarification of seeds the birds have with a wide variety of plant species, Stewart eaten occurs during digestion. The at varying heights, will meet the needs seeds are passed in excrement, landing of wildlife that feed, nest or find shel¬ where they will grow to produce fruit ter at different levels. And a mix of and nectar for the next generation. It is trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants and your choice to keep the new plants or standing ground cover will reduce se¬ treat them as weeds. You may transplant vere insect or disease problems. them once they have started growing if Landscaping for wildlife is gar¬ you don't like where the birds planted dening at its very best!

Fall 2008 Page 5 ■ Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society ===== Book on plants of early America is a work of art

Just because something is beau¬ plant essays that detail how these book—from historians and botanists tiful doesn't mean it can't possess plants were cultivated and used in seeking more information about valuable scientific information as the gardens and homes of early colo¬ Virginia's botanical heritage, to garden¬ well. Such is the case with Flowers and nists. More than 30 of the plant es¬ ers wishing to choose appropriate spe¬ Herbs of Early America, researched says feature Old World introductions, cies for period gardens, to those who and written by Lawrence D. Griffith, many of which are now naturalized want to escape the stresses of the world and lavishly illustrated with Barbara in Virginia. The rest of the plants are by turning the pages of this beautiful Temple Lombardi's amazing color new world varieties and half of those, book and soaking in the natural beauty photographs. The oversize, full-color such as the sunflower, were in Vir¬ presented inside. coffee table book is produced by the ginia in 1607. The author is available for speak¬ Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Each plant essay includes a pe¬ ing engagements and booksignings. in association with Yale University riod woodcut, a botanical information If anyone knows of native plant soci¬ Press. (300 pp., hardcover with box, an essay meticulously docu¬ ety chapters, gardening clubs or his¬ dustjacket, ISBN 978-0-87935-238-7) menting the research trail followed by torical societies that might be inter¬ Griffith, the curator of plants for Griffith, and of course, Lombardi's ested, contact Penna Rogers (public Colonial Williamsburg, incorporates dazzling photographs. There could affairs. Colonial Williamsburg, 757- his years of experience into the 56 hardly be anyone not drawn to this 220-7702; [email protected]). • Return of the natives (Continued from page 3) spots. An alternative was to plant day When the first settlers arrived in lilies, also an immigrant species but Jamestown in 1607 they found a lush and around water courses for the wildlife, one that offered nice bloom without the complex world of flora and fauna that and then native grasses like switchgrass harmful invasive qualities. Unfortu¬ had evolved over the eons before Old in the pastures. Shade or sun, shale or nately, in areas where deer are a prob¬ World met New. Those first explorers clay, rich or poor soil, wet or dry, there is lem, day lilies are tantamount to open¬ and colonists wrote enthusiastically a native plant that has, over millennia, ing a deer salad bar. about Virginia's almost endless variety. learned to adapt and thrive. Smith has a better way of dealing Today's gardener can find much to "I do an awful lot of my gardening with those clay banks that frustrate like about going back to what plants had by subtraction," she said with a laugh. gardeners in new housing develop¬ already learned to thrive in the natural After removing what shouldn't be ments. She recommends a variety of world long before 1607. None of the there, such as multiflora rose, she often native mints (pycnanthemum), golden- three native plant gardeners in this waits for the appropriate plants to re¬ rods, tall black-eyed Susans, deer story can think of a single reason not to appear. If they don't then she brings in grass, and Gro-Lo sumac, which is a strive for the natural compatibility of what should be there based on the cultivar of fragrant sumac that deer Virginia's first plants. "I saw how well unique conditions of that spot. find distasteful. "You want something they did and how easy they are to man¬ Finding the right species or cultivar that perennializes and takes over and age in a landscape. Very few have in¬ is an "intellectual chase" she noted. all of these plants do that. The golden- sect or disease problems and the wild¬ Many of her plants have to be started by rods and mints will attract the benefi¬ life seems to really appreciate them," seed or cuttings because the commercial cial insects such as butterflies and the Smith says of the return of the natives. growers and nurseries have been slow scavenger wasps." to catch on to the commonsense of going Nancy Sorrells, VNPS Bulletin Editor Because native gardens require little native. These days, however, there are a if any pesticides, the enhanced wildlife growing number of nurseries that spe¬ habitat is a further bonus. Especially the cialize in natives. Giving credit "beneficial insects" noted Smith. "If you Natives can also be the answer in The last Bulletin contained are going more natural by never using new housing situations that often cre¬ an article about the unique ecol¬ Seven or Malathion again, then you are ate exposed banks that erode badly ogy of the Potomac Gorge—the going to have to get help from Mother until groundcover is established. Land¬ site of the recent VNPS Annual Nature. The small parasitic wasps, for scapers of the past resorted to invasive Meeting. Mary Ann Lawler instance, are good. One type goes groundcovers such as crown vetch or should have been credited for against Mexican bean beetles. And so vinca to hold the soil in place but those the fine article that she put to¬ many of the adult forms of beneficial plants created unbalanced habitats giv¬ gether. Thanks Mary Ann for insects are nectar or pollen eaters that ing foothold to plants that quickly your hard work on the article you have to keep flowers going during spread into and ruined other garden and on the meeting. the time they are eating."

Page 6 Fall 2008 - = Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society Virginia sneezeweed One of the state's rarest plants Ah-choo! An allergic reaction to Helenium? No! The sneezeweed got its name from early settlers who would dry the yellow flower heads and grind them into a snuff. People sniffed the snuff to make them sneeze and open stuffy noses. At the time that Virginia sneeze¬ weed (Helenium virginicum) was listed as federally threatened, the plant was thought to be restricted to about 25 seasonally inundated sinkhole ponds and meadows in Augusta and Rockingham Coun¬ ties, Virginia. Since then, however, more than 25 populations of the sneezeweed have been identified in three counties in southern Mis¬ Virginia sneezeweed in one of its favorite habitats: souri. What led to this disjunctive a sinkhole pond in southern Augusta County. Close- distribution is unknown. The num¬ ups at left and a full frame of the knee-high plants ber of individual plants at each site above in August as they dominate the dried bed of varies from year to year, from a few the pond. (Photos by Nancy Sorrells) plants to hundreds of thousands. H. virginicum is well adapted to other plants in the same habitat. In Vir¬ panic grass, and northern St. John's the fluctuating water levels of their ginia, the ponds supporting the wort (VA NHP website). native habitat and rosettes can some¬ sneezeweed have poorly drained, In Missouri, H. virginicum occurs times be observed completely sub¬ acidic, silty loam soils, and are gener¬ at the margins of sinkhole ponds and merged. The ability to survive peri¬ ally flooded from January to July in wet meadows (Rimer and Summers, odic inundation may give the sneeze¬ (USFWS 1998). Associated species in¬ in review). The wetlands inhabited by H. weed a competitive advantage over clude, black-fruited spikerush, warty (See Sneezeweed, page 8)

See the address label for your membership expiration date The Bulletin VNPS Membership/Renewal Form ISSN 1085-9632 Name(s)_ is published five times a year Address_ (Feb., April, June, August, Nov.) by City_State_Zip_ Virginia Native Plant Society _Individual $30 _Student $15 Blandy Experimental Farm _Family $40 _Associate (groups) $40* 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Unit 2 _Patron $50 _Sustaining $100 Boyce, VA 22620 _Life $500 (540) 837-1600 *Please designate one person as delegate for Associate membership To give a gift membership or join additional chapters: Enclose dues, name, address, and [email protected] chapter (non-voting memberships in any other than your primary chapter are $5) www.vnps.org

Sally Anderson, President I wish to make an additional contribution to_VNPS or Chapter in the Nancy Sorrells, Editor amount of_$10_$25_$50_$100_$(Other)_ _Check if you do not wish your name to be exchanged with similar organizations Original material contained in the Bulletin may be _Check if you do not wish your name to be listed in a chapter directory reprinted, provided credit is given to VNPS and tire author, if named. Readers are invited to send letters, Make check payable to VNPS and mail to: news items, or original articles for the editor's con¬ sideration. Items should be typed, on disk in Microsoft VNPS Membership Chair, Blandy Experimental Farm, 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Unit 2, Word or emailed to: Editor, 3419 Cold Springs Rd., Boyce, VA 22620 Greenville, VA24440, or [email protected]

Membership dues are tax deductible in the amount they exceed $5. Contributions are tax deductible in accordance with IRS regulations. The deadline for the next issue is October 30

Fall 2008 Page 7 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society

•Kansas- The federally listed Mead's (Continued from page 2) milkweed (Asclepias meadii) prairie ecosystem sustainability, to pro¬ was the rarest plant seen by ducing the best beef at the cheapest price. the VNPS group in Kansas. The group visited six prairi^ ven¬ This plant was named for its ues: Overland Park Arboretum and discoverer, Daniel Barnham Botanical Garden where they are be¬ Mead. (Photo by Larry and ginning to restore the grasslands which Linda Wilcox) have grown up in scrubby trees such as eastern red cedar and osage orange; Coblentz Prairie that is being restored to a natural state from a grazing appli¬ cation and contained an extremely di¬ • Sneezeweed fecting recruitment and maintenance of verse inventory of plants; National (Continuedfrom page 7) Tallgrass Prairie Preserve an 11,000- H. virginicum populations. acre preserve that exists because of a virginicum are associated with dolomite Habitat modification is the pri¬ cooperative effort between the Nature and limestone geologies that are subject mary threat to H. virginicum. Some of Conservancy and the National Park Ser¬ to fluctuating water levels that vary from these modifications include residential vice and includes almost 400 species of year to year (Van Alstine, 2000). development, filling of wetland habi¬ plants, 150 species of birds, 31 species Helenium virginicum flowers from tats, and other disruptions of hydrol¬ of mammals, and 39 types of reptiles and early July to October, with peak flower¬ ogy. Cattle grazing and mowing at mod¬ amphibians; Mushrush Registered Red ing occurring in late July to early Au¬ erate levels can be beneficial, however, Angus Ranch where we heard a discus¬ gust at most sites. The pollination biol¬ overgrazing or poorly timed mowing sion with the local extension agent and ogy of H. virginicum has not been stud¬ could have long-term adverse effects. a rancher involved in Angus breeding ied in detail; however, the primary in¬ The future needs for Virginia and beef cattle grazing operations; sect pollinators appear to be bees, sneezeweed populations include sur¬ Grandview Ranch that promotes a pub¬ wasps (Hymenoptera: Apidae, veys for new sites and monitoring of lic understanding of the need to burn Halictidae, Sphecidae), butterflies known sites. Collection and storage of the native grasses and the Konza Prai¬ (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae and seed from populations is needed in both rie Biological Station, an 8,600 acre na¬ Lycaenidae, among others), and Virginia and Missouri. tive tallgrass prairie field research facil- hoverflies (Diptera: Syrphidae). Sea¬ Information from the Center for Plant . erated by Kansas State University sonal water fluctuation, particularly in¬ Conservation's website at: http:// www.centerforplantconservation.org/ASP/ and the Nature Conservancy. undation, is probably a key factor af¬ CPCJViezvPrcfile.asp?CPCNum=2187#Distributbn Ralph Will, John Clayton Chapter

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VA ‘6jnquosujBH 0?9ZZVA^O9 U9U on iiwaad Z Jiun 'auBq uiiej Apuejg 00T a i vd litre j p?}uaun.i9dx3[ Apuejg J Q6eisod S T1 uoqeziueBJO l!;ojd-uoN Ajapos XueId saijijn eiux§jiA 1085-9632 5 27, No. Vol. (See Climate change, page 8) David Whitehurst of DGIF stated Releasing the Monarch the species of greatest conservation that the most imperiled habitats are in southwestern Virginia and on the invasive species ecosys¬ in species composition and the spruce tems. In the Appalachians numerous and fir forests in which songbirds breed would disappear. could all disappear. that the recently completed State Wild¬ life Action Plan will need to be "retro¬ fitted" to take climate change into ac¬ count. With the help of the Natural Heritage Program, they are identifying concern by taxonomic group. It is clear and marshland. Dead zones and would increase with huge changes Water temperatures in streams would be too hot for trout to survive—they Dr. Douglas Inkley of NWF pro¬ of the biome of federal wildlife refuges in the southeast would be harmed. The and half of bay habitat would disap¬ fisheries, wildlife, and habitat. vided an overview of the potential im¬ pact of climate change by the end of the century. His projections were grim. With rising temperatures, 78 percent Chesapeake Bay could rise by 27 inches, pear. Dry land would become swamp Heri¬ tion and Recreation's Natural Depart¬ tage Program, the Virginia Foundation, local government plan¬ organizations with concerns about DGIF, pated in the workshop including Conserva¬ NWF, the Department of Service, ment of Forestry, U.S. Forest the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Nature Conservancy, Environ¬ Audubon Society, Piedmont mental Council, Chesapeake Bay ning entities, and several non-profit wild places Conserving wild flowers and NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY A publication of the VIRGINIA & Virginia's wildlife Climate change Native Plant invited to at¬ tend a work¬ shop spon¬ sored by the The Virginia Society was (See Monitoring the monarch, page 3)

Bay the upper 80s. Following a walk in the center of the Occoquan

Observatory) Larry, on behalf of the CVWO (Coastal Virginia Wildlife Numerous organizations partici¬

5 Annual Meeting photo essay, pg. 5 INSIDE: VNPS gifts pg. 2008 Winter www.vnps.org

lunch presentation about monarch butterfly tagging. was found. An Bay, and the Potomac River. Hoping for a breeze, none noon post¬ accelerated walk was in order to the site for Larry Brindza's

- temperatures in A September day turned summer for the field trip Meeting group National Wildlife Refuge (OBNWR), our VNPS Annual River, Belmont reached water's edge at the junction of the Occoquan adapt their conservation efforts. ing for a Changing Climate. The work¬ (VCN) entitled Conserving Virginia's velop strategies to determine how to likely impacts of climate change on Virginia's fish and wildlife and to de¬ on October 30. Its purpose was to bring stakeholders together from through¬ out the commonwealth to consider the shop was held in Wakefield, Virginia, land Fisheries (DGIF), the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), and the Virginia Conservation Network Fish and Wildlife for the Future: Prepar¬

and In¬ Virginia Department of Game VNPSers Monarch migration studied by

5 «xi > * - Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society - —= From the president. VNPS Chapters 'walk the walk' and 'talk the talk'

I'm always interested in reading the newsletters teach and it's fun because it is a time of discovery for from our 13 chapters and hearing reports from the children. Being closer to the plants often gives them a presidents or chapter representatives at our board meet¬ perspective we cannot share except through their ques¬ ings about what they are doing for native plants. The tions and observations. chapters are zvhere most of our VNPS activities occur Some of our chapters give scholarships; some do¬ and it is the way we get our message out. I’d like to re¬ nate to the Flora of Virginia Project; some have gar¬ view our mission dens that dis¬ and give some ex¬ play ex¬ amples of the neat The VNPS mission amples of na¬ things chapters tive plants at are doing to make • VNPS is a non-profit organization of individuals who state parks or that happen. share an interest in Virginia's native plants and habitats. schools, and The key words The Society and its chapters seek to further the appreciation members pro¬ are "share" and vide staff for and conservation of this priceless heritage. "emphasizeand booths and the best way we do give talks to that is through • The Society's programs emphasize public education, garden clubs, walks and talks protection of endangered species, habitat preservation, and Master (programs). Our Naturalists encouragement of appropriate landscape use of native plants. walks are famous and Master for being slow, Gardeners. slow, slow. I can We have a (have to) hike fast with my spouse, but VNPS walks are state program about invasive alien plants, and many opportunities to observe plants, see where they grow, dis¬ chapters have taken this topic into their local communi¬ cover what is special about that place, and learn from oth¬ ties, which, in my estimation, has made a huge differ¬ ers on the walk. Another way to share the walks and plants ence in awareness of the subject. we see is to pull together lists of places to visit and plant The Upper James River Chapter has a series of bro¬ lists from our field trips for those who can't make a par¬ chures on invasives. The Potowmack Chapter has a ticular hike, and to treat others to slide shows or articles listserv that offers opportunities weekly for invasive re¬ about the plants, their habitats, challenges to their sur¬ moval projects, and many other chapters care for a piece vival and other news. These are regular features of chapter of land that is burdened in this way. Another idea that programs and newsletters. has come up recently involves showing environmental One area where we may fall short is sharing these films, both to children and adidts, especially in weather experiences with children. However, some outreach from when outdoor walks might not be appealing. chapters to young people has begun, offering opportu¬ I was inspired to write this because of reading a nities to share the plants and their stories. If there are recent John Clayton Chapter newsletter that told of any interested teachers out there, I hope I'll hear ideas the scholarships given, programs presented, walks from you. Having recently led a ''Berries and Nuts'' taken. But this newsletter typifies what I see from one walk where there were both children and adidts, I found chapter after another. Whatever your chapter chooses it refreshing to hear the questions children asked and to to do to further the mission of VNPS, those of us in learn their level of environmental knowledge. the state organization who are trying to put the VNPS My own Piedmont Chapter has done a skit for two cause into action appreciate your efforts. I hope you years for fourth graders that pits invasive Ailanthus trees will share new ideas among yourselves, with other against a white oak in a struggle for light and nutrients. chapters and with the state board. This includes our Pocahontas Chapter has taught children about members at-large who are also invited to share sug¬ plants that were being used here when European set¬ gestions and ideas that will help VNPS fulfill its mis¬ tlers arrived. Having kids on a hike can be difficult un¬ sion. Thank you all! less the hike is billed as a family event, but there is a lot to Your President, Sally Anderson

Page 2 Winter 2008 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society cMonitorina the monarch

Larry Brindza with captured female monarch, left, and then measuring the monarch with calipers. (Photos by Nicky Staunton) (Continued from page 1) - shared his experience with tagging and releasing monarch but¬ Flora Project update terflies on their migration to Mexico. He began as a counter of migrating raptors. While waiting for them, he noticed the mon¬ Writing, editing, comparing of descriptions to arch butterfly migration which captured his attention so much the commonwealth's herbarium specimens, illus¬ that he began volunteering with tagging efforts. trating and the production of the Flora of Virginia is Monarchs have been scarce this year and it took several well under way. Some levels of preparation have hours for him to net one at OBNWR, a female (no black spots on been completed. We are this far along because of the hind wing upper side). The process was then to carefully your enthusiastic and loyal financial support since place the butterfly in a glassine envelope and, using a micro¬ 2000, when the project began. Upon publication, weight scale, weigh the insect within the envelope. Then, re¬ Virginians will finally have a book in hand that moving the butterfly from the glassine envelope, he measured contains the name, range and botanical informa¬ the length of the front of the forewing with a caliper. The weight tion for every plant identified as living in the natu¬ and length of the forewing indicates the butterfly's ability to ral landscapes of Virginia! complete the migration. The entire board of the Flora of Virginia Project The next step was to place a tiny adhesive 9mm Polypropy¬ thanks you, as do the authors, Chris Ludwig, Alan lene tag with a number on it on the distal surface of the wing. Weakley and Johnny Townsend, along with Lara (http://www.monarchwatch.org/tagmig/tag.htm). Then the Gastinger, principal Flora illustrator. They all con¬ butterfly is released for migration. When a deceased monarch is tinue their sure, steady pace toward the 2012 publi¬ spotted, it is collected and searched for a tag. The finder re¬ cation goal. ceives a five dollar bounty per tag that is returned to the data One can get extremely excited thinking of Vir¬ base at the University of Kansas. ginians finally having their first manual on As a follow-up on current monarch migration. Dr. Lincoln Virginia^ plants since 1762! Yes, 1762! Virginia, at Brower of Sweet Briar College was co-sponsored for a lecture by 3,500 plant taxa, stands out as having close to the Shenandoah University and the Foundation of the State Arbo¬ highest diversity of plant life relative to land area retum. Some VNPS members attended and learned that, while in America. We have been leaning on our neighbor¬ the migration of monarch butterflies might cease along the east ing states' floras including West Virginia, the Caro- coast route, they would not become extinct as they will con¬ linas, and Maryland, the most recent of which is 25 tinue stronger migration along the middle US and western routes years old. Our work on the Flora of Virginia will to Mexico. Decline is attributed to habitat destruction both in place us in the lead with the newest, most accurate Mexico wintering locations due to illegal timbering and in the and most complete state flora. We can anticipate United States, to removal of natural habitats for development finally being able to share our Flora with neighbor¬ (erasing the vegetation and terrains) and to the effect of herbi¬ ing botanists, students, natural resource managers cides used for agricultural efficiency. Insects cannot anticipate and interested wildflower enthusiasts. the toxicity of the nectar that contains herbicides. Dr. Brower is How about a GIFT IDEA for the holidays or preparing a report to be published about the status of monarch any time during the year? You might consider mak¬ butterfly migration that is expected to be published soon. ing a memorable gift of $1,000 or more to the Flora Visit Monarchwatch.org or http: / / www.cvwo.org to learn more. (See Flora Project, page 7) Nicky Staunton, VNPS 1st Vice-president Winter 2008 Page 3 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society

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Two of Virginia's "remarkable trees" found in the Shenandoah Valley: at the far left is Bridgewater's white oak(Quercus alba) that has been around since about 1700. The tree is 70 feet tall and has a diameter of 5.5 feet. The other tree, also a white oak, is the Prayer Oak in Augusta County. Confederate General Thomas Jonathan "Stonewall" Jackson reportedly worshipped under its branches during the 1862 Valley Campaign. (Photos by Nancy Sorrells) New book highlights Virginia's remarkable trees

For many years I heard people talk ters on historic trees, community trees, tulip poplars at Nomini Hall, about champion trees in Virginia. At the unique trees, and species that are of spe¬ Westmorland County. State Arboretum near Boyce, where I cial beauty or interest. Oaks are so much Our connections to trees receive often volunteer, was a hackberry (since beloved that they get a chapter to them¬ great emphasis in this book. Many pho¬ fallen) that was stated to be the second selves. Each topic is introduced and the tos include homes, swings, and chil¬ largest in the state. But where was the reader is given some idea of the reason dren, pets and adults standing on and largest, and who was recording them? I for the choices. On every page, accompa¬ around the central character. Tree climb¬ r had seen a few lists, not necessarily up nying a stunning photograph, are text ing is not forbidden, but encouraged as to date. When I discovered the Remark¬ and informative captions that describe a way children forge a connection to the able Trees website I was happy to see not the specimen and tell stories about it. outdoors. Many of our greatest trees are just a list, but all that the internet can The use of documents and historic found in human environments. provide. There are photographs, it is eas¬ photographs to document age, the way Public forest lands of our state were ily updated, the user has the ability to habit or form is influenced by the sur¬ largely stripped of trees by 1920 accord¬ nominate trees and search the list, and roundings, the habitat preference and ing to the text. Noted in the chapter on there are educational activities for natural range of many trees can be places to see trees is the fact that many schoolchildren. The downside though is found in the clear, informative prose. of those on public forest land are of more time in front of a computer screen. Tidbits of natural history and wildlife smaller stature than the behemoths in Now we have a complementary vol¬ associations are a part of the story of our small town and farm settings. The ume to that website, Remarkable Trees of these trees, from the acorns of overcup authors point out that it is up to us to Virginia, and it is a beautiful printed book oak that disperse by floating (a sign of seek to protect these lands, which for¬ you can sit with under a tree or in any weevils in other acorns) to sweetgum tunately have largely been reforested. other favorite place. Lists are elsewhere, as a host for the luna moth. Human use One might see the old growth trees of and statistics are gracefully incorporated of trees, such as red spruce in pianos Europe as having been replaced by the into the descriptive text. This is beauty and white oaks in ship building pro¬ columns of antiquity or cathedrals to and inspiration you can hold. No power vides another interesting angle. provide places where human spiritual cord needed. Authors Nancy Ross Flugo Both within and outside of the chap¬ life can be lived. Let us hope that our and Jeffrey Kirwan and photographer ter on historic trees are stories of the living columns will be preserved rather Robert Llewelyn, have collaborated on past. Some of these are personal, such than replaced, and extend our care to this lovely volume from the University as the story of Sallie's crying tree. Some future trees of age, size, ecological inter¬ of Virginia Press and Albemarle Books. are cultural, such as two brothers, est and historical importance. This is a While the state champions have a shade-tree mechanics and NASCAR book with the ability to bring trees to chapter of their own, the authors have racers, working under a huge beech tree. life for people of many levels of interest acknowledged that measurements do not Some stories are of broader historic in¬ and knowledge, and should help foster necessarily take form or beauty into ac¬ terest like the freeing of 600 slaves of that protection. count, and that trees have meaning out¬ Robert Carter III 72 years before the Sally Anderson, VNPS President side of size and age. Hence there are chap¬ Emancipation Proclamation, under the

Page 4 Winter 2008 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society iRemembering good times at the UENTS Annual Minting...

Spotted turtle crossing Easy Street

Suitland Bog and Turkey cock photos by Sally Anderson. All others by Nicky Staunton. Trip leader Mark Strong at Suitland Bog

Charter members Reginald and Liz Smith and Ted Pockman (PT)

Cooling those tired toes! leaders Rod Simmons and Tony Fleming preparing a group for a trip to Turkey cock. Holiday gift ideas for VNPS friends and family FINDING WILDFLOWERS IN THE VNPS Office, [email protected], 400 News Record. Dr. Fisher, who grew up WASHINGTON BALTIMORE AREA Blandy Farm Lane, #2, Boyce VA 22620 in West Virginia, draws upon both his by Cris Fleming, Marion Lobstein & or 540-837-1600. graduate work in botany and the folk¬ Barbara Tufty Johns Hopkins, $25 Essay collection by John Trott (1927- ways training he had with his grand¬ Amazon.com 2000), originally published weekly in the mother, the community expert on the Text by Cris Heming, USDA Gradu- Fauquier Times Democrat. Collected and uses of plants. Introductory essay by ate School educator and field trip published by Piedmont Chapter of VNPS Sorrells is an oral history of Fisher. leader for Audubon Naturalist Society, with the Middleburg Garden Club. Line VIRGINIA NATIVE PLANTS: A Short Marion Lobstein, Associate Professor drawings by Nicky Staunton. 2nd Print¬ Course on Plant Taxonomy to Describe of biology. Northern Virginia Commu¬ ing. (Ideal for young naturalists.) the Dominant Flozvering Plants in the nity College in Manassas and field trip THRILLING TRILLIES AND CAPTI¬ Fredericksburg Area, by Hal Wiggins, full leader for the Smithsonian Associates, VATING CATTAILS: Ethnobotanical color, paperback, Amazon.com or http: / and Barbara Tufty, a natural science Essays of Mid-Appalachia by Elwood /stores.lulu.com/halwiggins $24.57. writer and conservation editor for the Fisher, extensive line drawings by Anita Hal Wiggins, Environmental Scientist Audubon Naturalist Society until her Cooper, introductory essay by Nancy with the Regulatory Program, U.S. death in 2008. Maps by Jo Moore; line Sorrells, contact Chris Bowlen $15 ($10 Army Corps of Engineers. drawings by Nicky Staunton. Fore¬ + shipping/handling). A FIELD GUIDE TO CROWS NESTbv word by Stanwyn Shetler, Curator of A collection of essays written by re¬ Hal Wiggins, http://stores.lulu.com/ Botany Emeritus, Smithsonian. tired James Madison University profes¬ halwiggins, $33 full color paperback, THE VIRGINIANATURALISTby]ohn sor Dr. Elwood Fisher. Most originally $10 black and white paperback. Trott, $24 ($20 + $4 shipping/handling) published in the Harrisonburg Daily (See Gifts, page 8) Winter 2008 Page 5 ■ Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society = Industrial wind Turbines poor fit for Appalachian forests

In a 21st century version of tradi¬ real estate is difficult to find ex¬ three years that the tax credit tional Appalachian exploitation, cept in national forests, and in¬ wasn't reauthorized since first en¬ industrial wind developers have ar¬ dustrial wind development will acted in 1992, the skyrocketing in¬ rived in the mountains where I live. destroy it there. dustry plateaued like a Developers themselves called it "a Every turbine - hundreds are mountaintop-removal coalmine. gold rush" at a recent wind indus¬ proposed, each over 400 feet tall - Coal is our major electricity¬ try conference, referring to the nearly will require clear-cutting as many as generating fuel, and using it is 50 percent nationwide increase in five acres of forest. Many miles of massively destructive to forests. wind electricity installations over new, extra wide roads (to accommo¬ But destroying more forests in or¬ the past year. date turbines around curves) and der to stop destroying forests is, At the same conference, I saw a transmission lines will slash open well, batty. state wind resources map. Thin red the forest interior to poachers and Because wind is capricious, currents of air along the highest pests like Japanese stilt grass, a turbines produce 30 percent or less ridges west of Virginia's Shenandoah highly invasive nonnative. The bald of their maximum capacity and Valley were ranked as possibly strong eagles that began nesting and over¬ must be permanently backed-up by enough to power turbines. Similar wintering here in 1981 and that rise coal or other fuel. We'd have to re¬ currents are stirring on maps all on warming updrafts could get place nearly every tree with a tur¬ along the Appalachian Mountains. smacked at ridge-crest, like more bine to offset even a small amount Some of those ridges happen to than a thousand eagles, hawks, and of coal's impact, devastating the be national forest, where native owls killed every year at California's forest in the process. Without a na¬ plants should take precedence over notorious Altamont Pass. Migrating tional policy on energy conserva¬ industrial plants. songbirds get hit, too. tion and efficiency, we're whistling The million acres of the George Caves in these ancient moun¬ in the wind anyway. Washington National Forest, like tains host bats of many species, in¬ Industrial-scale turbines may millions more acres of national for¬ cluding two endangered species. work well in vast midwestern crop¬ est to the south, were left burning Bats are attracted to clearings lands, where they require no log¬ and eroding by private timber com¬ around turbines to eat huge quan¬ ging, mining, drilling, or water for panies during the "cut out and get tities of flying insects, including processing, and emit no pollutants. out" logging in the early 1900s. disease-carrying mosquitoes. Bats Offshore may also be appropriate. Authorized by the Weeks Act of may also be lured by night lights There winds are strong and prom¬ 1911, the U.S. Forest Service bought required by the Federal Aviation ising, although little research has the land for the public and stopped Administration. Some four thou¬ been done on wildlife impacts. erosion and arson, planted mil¬ sand bats were killed in one year - In richly forested Appalachia, lions of trees, and built outdoor fa¬ the most ever documented world¬ a community-scale approach using cilities enjoyed by millions of wide - at Florida Power and Light's solar panels and small turbines, people annually. Millions more de¬ installation in Mountaineer, W.Va. with few environmental impacts, pend on the clean water and air Maybe the strobe effect of the better suits the landscape. And in that come out of the national for¬ blades, called shadow flicker, sim¬ national forests, which are dedi¬ ests, and local timber industries ply drove them batty. cated by law to "outdoor recre¬ benefit from regulated harvests. Low frequency sounds from tur¬ ation, range, timber, watershed, The steep slopes and slender bines can keep humans within a mile and wildlife and fish purposes," ridgelines are healing from old or two from sleeping and cause other the green forest is itself the gold. abuse and have become a refuge for symptoms, according to medical lit¬ Chris Bolgicmo is the author or editor of five people and wildlife, as landscapes erature. A doctor in New York State books, including Living in the Appala¬ develop all around. named it "Wind Turbine Syndrome." chian Forest: True Tales of Sustainable In the roughest, least accessible Death, destruction anci insom¬ Forestry, which won the Southern Envi¬ places left unlogged for a century, nia are marketed as "renewable ronmental Law Center’s Reed Memorial Award. She recently installed a solar photo¬ oaks have time to mature into heavy electricity" to urban consumers. voltaic system that makes 90 percent of her acorn producers. Black bears that The federal production tax credit household electricity. This commentary, eat the acorns prefer to den about a drives it all, with additional subsi¬ written by Bolgiano, was distributed by Bay mile from any road, 50 feet up in dies on national forest, where no Journal News Service, September 2008. the cavities of big old trees. That property taxes are levied. In the

Page 6- Winter 2008 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society 3 51 85 345 5829 Course celebrates 40 years of horticulture education The 2009 Mid-Atlantic Horticul¬ match subject areas: national and re¬ Bemie Erven, Ohio State University, Pro¬ ture Short Course will celebrate 40 years gional speakers present new tech¬ fessor Emeritus, Dr. Chris Martin, Ari¬ of horticulture education at its annual niques, university research and ad¬ zona State University, Buddy Lee, na¬ conference January 25-30 at the vances in Arboriculture, Business and tionally-known plant breeder and cre¬ Founder's Inn and Spa in Virginia Management, Crew Manager Training, ator of the Encore Azalea® and Dr. Bob Beach. Known as one of the nation's Horticulture Skills, Landscape Man¬ Lyons, University of Delaware, most comprehensive horticulture edu¬ agement, Landscape Architecture and Longwood Gardens. Robert Hayter, cational programs, it features more than Design and Plants and Production. ASLA, with the Hayter Firm, will con¬ 90 professional horticulture and busi¬ Featured speakers include Dr. Jerzy duct his special management workshop ness speakers and a choice of more than Nowak, Virginia Tech Center for Peace on Optimum Provision Management^1. 140 sessions related to the horticulture Studies & Violence Prevention; The The Mid-Atlantic Horticulture and landscape management Industry. Honorable W. Tayloe Murphy, Jr., Short Course programs and registration The five-day conference is divided former Virginia Secretary of Natural Re¬ forms are available at www.mahsc.org. into industry-specific tracks. Partici¬ sources & House of Delegates; Dr. Brian For more information call 757-523-4734 pants can select any track or mix and Kane, University of Massachusetts; Dr. or email [email protected]. •Flora Project listed at the level of Virginia Bluebell To provide financial support to this (Continued from page 3) (.Mertensia virginica). For a complete list project, please make your check out to of Virginia Project in honor of someone of support levels, please visit the the Foundation of the Flora of Virginia special in your life. Gifts of $1,000 or website of the Flora of Virginia Project, Project Inc. and send it to: The Foun¬ more will be listed, by support level, in floraofvirginia.org. Gifts may be dation of the Flora of Virginia Project, the Flora, and if made in honor of some¬ pledged and the pledge paid progres¬ Inc., P.O. Box 512, Richmond, VA 23218- one, that person's name will also be sively, as it suits you. 0512. All donations are fully tax-de¬ included in the listing. Notice of your If you are a new member, you might ductible and will be acknowledged by gift will be sent to the person whom you like to read what a flora is and how it letter, a copy of which should be kept are honoring (or to the family, if it is a will be used. For that and more informa¬ for tax records. Please indicate if you memorial gift). Then, in 2012, upon tion, also visit the Hora Project website. would like your gift to remain anony¬ publication, you will receive a copy of And check back regularly, because a re¬ mous. To give a donation in the form of the first edition of the Flora of Virginia, designed website will be launched soon. securities, please call Chris Ludwig at or you may opt to have it sent to the There will be exciting information about 804-371-6206. person or family you are honoring. the authors and many people working Nicky Staunton, Member, Flora of Gifts of $1,000 to $9,999 will be on the Flora project. Virginia Project Board of Directors

See the address label for your membership expiration date The Bulletin VNPS Membership/Renewal Form ISSN 1085-9632 Name(s)_ is published five times a year Address_ (Feb., April, June, August, Nov.) by City_State_Zip_ _Individual $30 _Student $15 Virginia Native Plant Society _Family $40 _Associate (groups) $40* Blandy Experimental Farm _Patron $50 _Sustaining $100 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Unit 2 _Life $500 Boyce, VA 22620 *Please designate one person as delegate for Associate membership (540) 837-1600 To give a gift membership or join additional chapters: Enclose dues, name, address, and [email protected] chapter (non-voting memberships in any other than your primary chapter are $5) www.vnps.org

I wish to make an additional contribution to_VNPS or_Chapter in the Sally Anderson, President amount of_$10_$25_$50_$100_$(Other)_ Nancy Sorrells, Editor _Check if you do not wish your name to be listed to be exchanged with similar Original material contained in the Bulletin may be organizations in a chapter directory reprinted, provided credit is given to VNPS and tire author, if named. Readers are invited to send letters, Make check payable to VNPS and mail to: news items, or original articles for the editor's con¬ sideration. Items should be typed, on disk in Microsoft VNPS Membership Chair, Blandy Experimental Farm, 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Unit 2, Word or e-mailed to: Editor, 3419 Cold Springs Rd., Boyce, VA 22620 Greenville, VA 24440, or [email protected] Membership dues are tax deductible in the amount they exceed $5. Contributions are tax deductible in accordance with IRS regulations. The deadline for the next issue is January 10

Winter 2008 ■ - — Page 7 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society

•Climate change- •Gifts- gas emissions. Some versions of the (Continued from page 5) (Continued from page 1) legislation would establish a Climate coastal plain. An important goal will Field guide takes you on an incredible Adaptation Fund to address climate be to increase habitat connectivity. journey to a land that time has forgot¬ impacts on coastal areas, natural re¬ Preston Bryant, the Chairman of ten. Wiggins has worked for over 13 sources, fish and wildlife, and ecosys¬ the Virginia Commission on Climate years to document, study, advocate and tems. However, he conceded that no Change and Virginia’s Secretary of protect over 1,800 acres of a unique pen¬ consensus exists on what adaptation Natural Resources, said that the com¬ insula in Stafford County, Virginia, that would look like. Having a source of mission has been intensively gathering is surrounded by a freshwater, tidal es¬ funds to help with habitat acquisition information from experts to determine tuary. This is a history of Crow's Nest and management would be important. the impacts on resources, the economy, from its beginnings millions of years ago Finally, Mark Humpert, of the As¬ and the public. Carbon dioxide emis¬ through Colonial America, the Civil sociation of Fish and Game Agencies, sions rose in Virginia by approximately War and the efforts to save it today. discussed what other states are doing 34 percent from 1990 to 2004, nearly REMARKABLE TREES of VIRGINIA to assess vulnerability of species. twice the national average. The goal is by Nancy Ross Hugo and Jeffrey Participants then spent the after¬ to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by Kirwan; Robert Llewelyn, photogra¬ noon in group discussions on concerns 30 percent by 2025. But at the same time pher, University of Virginia Press & about climate change, anticipated con¬ the population of Virginia is expected Albemarle Books, $39.95. (See page 4) sequences from it, and recommenda¬ to continue to increase by about 3 mil¬ VNPS T-SHIRT with wildflower art¬ tions on what actions are needed to lion. And our lifestyle choices are en¬ work of Anita Cooper, Shenandoah mitigate its impact. ergy intensive—e.g. plasma televisions Chapter $18 per shirt ($15 + $3 ship¬ Based on those discussion ses¬ use much power; text messaging re¬ ping/handling), available in forest sions, a team from NWF, DGIF, and quires huge server farms. green, mulberry purple and mocha VCN will work to develop draft strate¬ But the outlook is not all gloom and brown, small choices limited to 5 green, gies and actions that Virginia needs to doom. Venture capitalists are putting 9 purple and 1 brown, 8 brown me¬ take to adapt management, planning, money into solar and wind projects. The dium. Medium, large and extra large and conservation efforts to protect its commission will be looking at possibili¬ available in all colors. fish and wildlife from climate change. ties for sequestration and adaptation to VNPS NOTE PADS with Anita They will use the draft actions and address climate change issues. It will Cooper's colorful wildflower artwork strategies as the basis for a second submit its report to the Governor by De¬ (same as T-shirt), 4"x5", workshop in March of 2009. VNPS will cember 15,2008. $4 per pad ($1.50 + .50 shipping/han¬ be invited. Meanwhile, we will look John Kostyack of NWF described dling per pad) or 3 for $10 plus ship¬ forward with interest to the report of federal legislation to create a national ping/handling. The T-shirt and note the Commission on Climate Change. cap-and-trade system for greenhouse pad can be viewed at www.vnps.org. Mary Ann Lawler, VNPS Conservation Chair

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