The Vascular Flora of The Genius Preserve and an Analysis of its Habitats

Jared Brown Rollins College Environmental Studies Department Spring 2021 Summary of Findings

Genius Preserve is a 46.67 acre nature preserve located in Orange County, Florida. The preserve serves as an ecological laboratory for Rollins College students, provides an ecological steppingstone for flora and fauna, and remains a staple “Old Florida” with its unique mixture exotic cultivated plants and remnant Florida native ecosystems. The property is situated between three lakes, Lake Mizell to the north; Lake Virginia to the west; and Lake Berry to the south east. The direct southern and eastern extents of the preserve are bordered entirely by suburban residential areas (Figure 1).

The topography of the preserve, analyzed through U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data, ranges from 70-90ft. There is a central ridge running north to south, where elevation is the highest (Figure

3).

There are five soil types located within the preserve boundaries, per USDA soil data, including surface water. The other four are terrestrial, typically more than 80 cm above the water table

(Figure 4 and USDA Soil Data Maps). The Topography along with varieties in soil and hydrology allow for six different natural and land use community types within the based on the Florida Land

Use, Cover and Forms Classification System (FLUCCS) (Figure 5). Five of the vegetative communities are upland, and one is wetland.

The analysis and data collection of all vascular flora within the preserve limits accounted 195 unique species. Of these species, 124 are native, 41 are non-invasive exotics (classified as non- native), and 30 are invasive exotics. Given that many of the non-native species are present solely as planted cultivars to help depict the “Old Florida” landscape, the native flora biodiversity is impressive, and the continued effort of ecological restoration seems to be working. The study also revealed the presence of three listed plant species, and three Florida endemics within the site boundary

Description of Project and Project Objectives

Introduction This study was done to provide assistance towards the continued ecological restoration and management of the Genius Preserve. Given the lack of natural areas in the Winter Park/Orlando metropolitan area, it is important that the Genius Preserve provides adequate refuge for as much of the native flora and fauna as possible. To best support this goal, it is important to have as much knowledge of the ecological systems as possible. This baseline assessment of the habitats and flora of the preserve will not only give us an idea of the challenges we face in the continued restoration efforts, but will also allow for future reports to display the progress of restoration efforts.

Field Survey Twelve belt transects were placed in various segments of the preserve. Each transect is 100ft in length, and approximately 5ft in width (Figure 6). These transects were performed during the spring 2021 semester (January-April). Transects were placed by analyzing the topographic and soil maps of the preserve, this allowed me to better assess potential breaks in habitat types. Data on plant species names, Department of Environmental Protection wetland status, as well as native status, for all individual species can be found for each transect in the Appendix A section of the report. The transect data can be referenced for later analysis, and can be compared to assess improvements in species composition and biodiversity. The transect data was gathered in a field notebook, and then uploaded to an Excel spreadsheet for access and presentation purposes. You will also see that within the transect spreadsheets there is a “Wetland Indicator – DEP” column for each plant species. This is a classification given to plants that occur naturally in wetlands by the Department of Environmental Protection. If a plant is found in an upland environment as often as it is found in a wetland environment, it is classified as Facultative (FAC). If a plant is found primarily in wetland conditions, but is occasionally found in upland conditions, it is classified as

Facultative Wet (FACW). If a plant is found solely in wetland conditions, it is classified as

Obligate (OBL). All plant species not listed with one of the indicators shall be perceived as upland plants.

Flora A total flora depicting all plant species by family, genus, and species is found in Appendix B.

Within the flora is data and wetland status, native status, as well as notes on any listed, or endemic plant species. The flora was composed on an Excel spreadsheet for analytical and presentation purposes. Within the flora there is a “Wetland Indicator – DEP” column for each plant species.

This is a classification given to plants that occur naturally in wetlands by the Department of

Environmental Protection. If a plant is found in an upland environment as often as it is found in a wetland environment, it is classified as Facultative (FAC). If a plant is found primarily in wetland conditions, but is occasionally found in upland conditions, it is classified as Facultative Wet

(FACW). If a plant is found solely in wetland conditions, it is classified as Obligate (OBL). All plant species not listed with one of the indicators shall be perceived as upland plants.

Mapping Mapping was primarily done using ARCGIS 2019 aerial photographic data, with some map data being gathered through the US Department of Agriculture website. The boundary for the site was created utilizing Orange County Florida tax parcel data. Topographic maps were created using

US Geological Survey Data.

Inaturalist Also created during this project is an Inaturalist application project that compiles any floristic reporting’s by the general public through the app or website. This allows for continued documentation of plants, while also increasing public interest on the plant biodiversity of the preserve. This project can be found by searching “Flora of Genius Preserve” under the Inaturalist website project tab. Here you can find the number of species identified, as well as images of each species, and where and when on the preserve they were found. Given that this app is public, it is also utilized by governmental agencies to study species biodiversity of a geographic area.

Results

Soil Data Within the project boundaries are four USDA classified soil types, including: Candler-Urban land complex, 0 to 5 percent slopes (7); Candler-Urban land complex, 5 to 12 percent slopes (8);

Florahome – Urban land complex, 0 to 5 percent slopes (29); Zolfo – Urban land complex (55); and Water (99). Below are descriptions of each listed soil type.

(7) Candler – Urban land complex, 0 to 5 percent slopes This soil type is mainly present within the north eastern extent of the property, and covers roughly

6% of the preserve. This soil type is not listed within the Florida Association of Environmental

Soil Scientists Hydric Soils of Florida Handbook, thus it can be stated that this soil has no wetland qualities. The USDA describes it as an excessively well drained soil type, and states that it is greater than 200cm to the water table throughout the year.

(8) Candler-Urban land complex, 5 to 12 percent slopes This soil type is mainly found within the north western extent of the property, and covers roughly

21% of the preserve. This soil type is not listed within the Florida Association of Environmental

Soil Scientists Hydric Soils of Florida Handbook, thus it can be stated that this soil has no wetland qualities. The USDA describes it as an excessively well drained soil type, and states that it is greater than 200cm to the water table throughout the year.

(29) Florahome – Urban land complex, 0 to 5 percent slopes This soil type only comprises a small corner within the north-eastern extent of the preserve, covering approximately 1% of the property. This soil type is not listed within the Florida

Association of Environmental Soil Scientists Hydric Soils of Florida Handbook, thus it can be stated that this soil has no wetland qualities. The USDA classifies this soil type as a moderately well drained soil, and states that it is roughly 153cm to the water table throughout the year.

(55) Zolfo – Urban land complex This soil type comprises most of the eastern flank of the preserve, and covers roughly 70% of the property. This soil type is not listed within the Florida Association of Environmental Soil Scientists

Hydric Soils of Florida Handbook, thus it can be stated that this soil has no wetland qualities. The

USDA classifies this soil type as a somewhat poorly drained soil, and states that it is 84cm to the water table throughout the year.

(99) Water This soil type is scattered around the lake-ward edges throughout the preserve, and covers roughly

1% of the property. The water table is above ground level throughout the year.

Habitats and Land-Use Types There are 6 habitats and land-use types present at Genius Preserve. These were classified using

Florida Land Use, Cover and Forms Classification System (FLUCCS). Community types found within the preserve include (1112) Mixed Hardwoods; (1400) Mixed Hardwood-Coniferous;

(1832) Rural Structures; (2241) Cypress/Hardwood Swamps; (18212) Residential, Low Density; and (183321) Citrus. One of these types, (2241) Cypress/Hardwood Swamps, are classified as wetland. The rest can be classified as upland. Below includes a description of each habitat type and the dominant vascular flora, as well as any structures, within each.

(1112) Mixed Hardwoods The Mixed Hardwoods FLUCCS classification area covers

the vast majority of the core of the preserve. This habitat

community type is dominated by a dense canopy of hardwood

tree species such as (but not limited to) live oak (Quercus

virginiana), pignut hickory (Carya glabra), laurel oak

(Quercus laurifolia), camphor tree (Cinnamomum

camphora), and southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora).

There are a few scattered conifer canopy tree species in

southern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), though the vast

majority (greater than 66% aerial coverage) of canopy species

are hardwood. The canopy also hosts many epiphytic plants

such as the butterfly orchid (Encyclia tampensis), and the

state-endangered giant airplant (Tillandsia utriculata). The

sub canopy is sparse, with scatterings of species such as (but 1 Scleria triglomerata not limited to) American beauty berry (Callicarpa americana), sabal palm (Sabal palmetto), loquat (Eriobotrya japonica), wild coffee (Psychotria nervosa), and dense stands of rusty lyonia (Lyonia ferruginea) at the extreme south-eastern extent of the preserve.

The majority of this vegetative community type is mowed and contains herbaceous and grass/grass like ground cover species such as (but not limited to) river sage (Salvia misella), Spanish needles (Bidens alba), frog fruit (Phyla nodiflora), guinea grass (Urochloa maxima), Baldwin’s flatsedge

(Cyperus croceus), annual blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium rosulatum), tall nutsedge (Scleria triglomerata), and tropical Mexican clover (Richardia brasiliensis).

(1400) Mixed Hardwood-Coniferous) “The Cedar Grove” is located in the core of the northern edge of the preserve. This area is one of the primary focusses for habitat restoration by Rollins College and the Genius-Morse Foundation.

This area differs from the (1112) Mixed Hardwood section of the preserve because of the increased presence of southern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana) within the canopy and sub-canopy. Other canopy species include live oak (Quercus virginiana), and southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora). The sub canopy within this community type is much more intact and natural than the Mixed Hardwoods community. Species include saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), American beauty berry (Callicarpa americana), sabal palm

(Sabal palmetto), wild coffee (Psychotria nervosa), coral bean (Erythrina herbacea), and two state-listed plant species, yellow anise

(Illicium parviflorum), and simpson stopper

(Myrcianthes fragrans).

This habitat also plays host to a unique mixture of native groundcover species and wildflowers, 2 Erythrina herbacea including coontie (Zamia integrifolia), river sage (Salvia misella), tropical sage (Salvia coccinea), and low growing saw palmetto (Serenoa repens). (1832) Rural Structures Located on the eastern segment of the preserve, along

the slopes of Lake Barry, is the historic Ward House.

This portion of the preserve resembles the historic rural

life of Old Florida. The Ward House is a vernacular

structure built in 1886. The area surrounding the house

is a clearly man-altered landscape containing citrus

groves and a historic citrus packaging house. The

landscape surrounding the home is strictly native,

featuring plants such as flatwoods plum (Prunus

umbellata), coontie (Zamia integrifolia), and Walter’s

viburnum (Viburnum obovatum). 3 Prunus umbellata

(2241) Cypress/Hardwood Swamps

All land bordering lakes within the preserve have been

classified as Cypress/Hardwood Swamps. All portions of the

canopy are dominated by old growth, and newly planted bald

cypress trees (Taxodium distichum), and hardwood species

such as water oak (Quercus nigra), laurel oak (Quercus

lauifolia), sweet bay (Magnolia virginiana), dahoon holly

(Ilex cassine), swamp tupelo (Nyssa biflora), and red maple

(Acer rubrum). Most sub canopy areas are still left relatively

intact, and commonly contain species such as wax myrtle

(Morella cerifera), elderberry (Sambucus 4 Carex longii nigra subsp. canadensis), button bush (Cephalanthus occidentalis), Virginia willow (Itea virginica), and Carolina willow (Salix caroliniana). Groundcover species include southern cattail (Typha domingensis), royal fern (Osmunda regalis var. spectabilis), swamp fern (Telmatoblechnum serrulatum), southern shield fern (Thelypteris kunthii), blue maidencane (Panicum hemitomon), Long’s flatsedge (Carex longii) and a carnivorous plant species, inflated bladderwort (Utricularia inflate).

(18212) Residential, Low Density

Located along the north-western flank is the historic McKean House. This Spanish style mansion was constructed in 1938. Nearly none of the surrounding flora is native other than the towering canopy of live oaks (Quercus virginiana), the rest is heavily cultivated, and adds to the Old

Florida feel of the preserve. The mansion sits directly across from Rollins College on Lake

Virginia. (183321) Citrus Two orange groves exist within the preserve, one in the very core of the preserve, and one located in the north-east corner of the preserve. These orange groves are the last remaining orange groves located in Winter Park, Florida, and resemble a dying industry which once dominated

Florida. 5 Genius Preserve Citrus Groves via drone 2019 Transects

Each transect resembled a varying form of species richness and biodiversity due to the uniqueness of the preserve and its history of land use and habitats. Despite the presence of non- native and/or invasive species at all portions of the preserve, the transects revealed that native species still dominate in total percent coverage. Below you will find a description of each transect, and a chart resembling the total percent coverage by native status for each transect. The species listed in these brief descriptions below do not resemble the full species list of each transect. To assess the total species list for each transect see Appendix A. Transect 1

Transect 1 is located in the southwestern portion Transect 1 of the preserve near the shores of Lake Virginia.

The vegetation found within the transect is 23% primarily native, with native species making up a 0% total of 77% aerial coverage. This habitat

77% resembles that of an upland to wetland ecotone

area, though ultimately given the few obligate

Native Non Native Invasive species, it is best to classify it as a true wetland ecosystem. Water oak (Quercus nigra), and live oak (Quercus virginiana) dominate the canopy.

The subcanopy includes a few scatterings of elderberry (Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis).

Swamp fern (Telmatoblechnum serrulatum) and the invasive tuberous sword fern (Nephrolepis cordifolia) cover much of the groundcover stratum, with a few obligate wetland plant species, such as Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica), and dahoon holly (Ilex cassine). Transect 2

Transect 2 Transect two is located along the northwestern

shores of the preserve, along Lake Virginia, just 6% south of the McKean house. This transect 17% resembles a wetland to upland ecotone habitat,

though because of the few obligate and facultative 77% wetland species, it is best to have it labeled as a

wetland area. Native Non Native Invasive The canopy is dominated by primarily desirable native species such as live oak (Quercus virginiana), bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), and sabal palm (Sabal palmetto). There are a couple areas where the invasive camphor tree

(Cinnamomum camphora), snuck over the transect. The subcanopy consisted of many planted banana trees (Musa x paradisiaca), though the rest is comprised of native shrub and small tree species such as elderberry (Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis), wax myrtle (Morella cerifera) and southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora). The ground contained primarily natives, with some non-natives and a couple of invasive species intermixed; dominant species including swamp fern (Telmatoblechnum serrulatum), dollarweed (Hydrocotyle umbellate), and grape vine

(Vitis rotundifolia). Transect 3

This transect can be found within the southwestern Transect 3

3%2% third of the property. South of the central orange groves. This transect best represents a mesic

mixed hardwood forest habitat type that serves as

a seepage area to the nearby lake. Most of the

species present within the transect are upland, 95% though the most prominent ground cover species

Native Non Native Invasive is considered to be facultative wetland (FACW).

This portion of the preserve is well covered by native species, with 95% total coverage of this transect being native, and only 2% being invasive. Dominant canopy species within this transect include live oak (Quercus virginiana), southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), and pignut hickory (Carya glabra). Subcanopy is rather sparse – with the majority of it being American beauty berry (Callicarpa americana), and sabal palm (Sabal palmetto). The groundcover stratum was largely comprised of the native sedge species, tall nutgrass (Scleria triglomerata), as well as

Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), young southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), and invasive tuberous sword fern (Nephrolepis cordifolia).

Transect 4

Transect 4 is located southeast of Transect 3. The Transect 4 habitat is classified as mesic mixed hardwood, but

is higher in elevation then that of Transect 3. This

33% is apparent by the significant drop of in facultative

wetland (FACW) species and species coverage. 65% 2% The ground cover stratum of Transect 3 had four

FACW species for a total of 41% coverage.

Native Non Native Invasive Compare that to Transect 4 that has one FACW species at a total coverage of 2% coverage.

The canopy of this transect is dominated by native hardwood species, including pignut hickory

(Carya glabra), southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), and red bay (Persea borbonia). The subcanopy is sparse, primarily composed of sabal palms (Sabal palmetto), and American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana). The groundcover is where most of the invasive coverage originates from in this transect, with this stratum being primarily tuberous sword fern

(Nephrolepis cordifolia) and guinegrass (Urochloa maxima), both categorized as invasive species in the state of Florida.

Transect 5

Transect 5 This transect is located along the southwestern end 1% of the southern flank of the preserve, running

adjacent to Lake Barry. This transect is located

along a mixed hardwood upland, and wetland

ecotonal area, though the transect itself would be

99% best classified as upland due to it’s primarily

upland species. This transect best resembles what

Native Non Native Invasive the property looked like prior to the touch of man.

No cultivated species exist within this transect. Towering live oaks (Quercus virginiana) dominate roughly a quarter of aerial canopy space, with the subcanopy being primarily ancient saw palmettos

(Serenoa repens), rusty lyonia (Lyonia ferruginea), and laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia). This transect should serve as a precedent on what the rest of the preserve should look like as management plans continue. Maintenance is limited within this area, yet it has the lowest presence of invasive species because of the health and equilibrium of the native ecosystem and species that are capable of outcompeting most nuisance and exotic species.

Transect 6

Transect 6 is located on the southern most shore of Transect 6 Lake Mizell, and the northern end of the core of

19% Genius Preserve. The habitat of this transect is best labeled as a mixed conifer-hardwood wetland.

There are several obligate wetland species found in

81% the subcanopy and groundcover stratum, and there

is a notable topographical shift from the landward

Native Non Native Invasive side of the transect. Invasive species are present along all strata of this transect, though native species still hold a clear majority.

The canopy is comprised of a mixture of native and invasive hardwood species, including camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora), pignut hickory (Carya glabra), and laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia). The subcanopy is rather sparse, with a random dispersal of native, non-native, and invasive species, such as Peruvian primrosewillow (Ludwigia peruviana), Virginia sweetspire

(Itea virginica), Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolia), and fetterbush (Lyonia lucida). Both

Brazilian pepper and Peruvian primrosewillow are category 1 invasive species that are capable of overtaking native habitats very quickly, and it is recommended that both species be dealt with accordingly. Groundcover found within Transect 6 is heavily covered in native and invasive fern species, including bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum var. pseudocaudatum), swamp fern

(Telmatoblechnum serrulatum), tuberous sword fern (Nephrolepis cordifolia), royal fern

(Osmunda regalis var. spectabilis), and Japanese climbing fern (Lygodium japonicum).

Transect 7

Transect 7, much like Transect 6, is located on the Transect 7 shores of Lake Mizell and best resembles a mixed

6% conifer-hardwood wetland habitat. The elevation 14% of this transect is notably lower than transect 6 and

appears to be within the lake’s seasonal high flood

80% plane area, thus this transect contains notably

more obligate wetland species. Invasive species

Native Non Native Invasive only cover 6% of total species coverage, largely in part to ecological restoration projects done by Rollins College students. Prior to restoration efforts, the area that this transect inhabits was dominated heavily by Caesar weed (Urena lobata), Peruvian primrosewillow (Ludwigia peruviana), and other invasive species.

Currently, the canopy of this transect is dominated by bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), red maple (Acer rubrum), and swamp tupelo (Nyssa biflora). The subcanopy contains a mixture of native, non-native, and invasive species, but is primarily dominated by elderberry (Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis), red maple (Acer rubrum), and bald cypress (Taxodium distichum). The groundcover for this transect was notably diverse, with over 35 species found in this stratum alone, 21 of which are native. Some notable groundcover species include southern shield fern

(Thelypteris kunthii), St. John’s mint (Clinopodium brownie), swamp rumex (Rumex verticillatus), and Elliot’s aster (Symphyotrichum elliottii).

Transect 8

Transect 8 Located about 75ft landward of Transect 7, Transect 8 finds itself along the upper elevation

8% ridge of the preserve, and is best classified as a

25% mesic mixed hardwood habitat. This area is also

greatly altered by landscaping practices compared 67% to previous transects through mowing and tree

plantings; regardless, native species still remain

Native Non Native Invasive dominant.

Canopy species found along this transect include live oak (Quercus virginiana), pignut hickory

(Carya glabra), and sugar hackberry (Celtis laevigata). There is no subcanopy within this area, given that it is consistently mowed. This gives this area of the preserve a more pastoral view.

“Lawn species” (groundcover) within this transect include Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon),

Baldwin’s flatsedge (Cyperus croceus), and blanket crabgrass (Digitaria serotina).

Transect 9

Transect 9 inhabits an area of the preserve referred Transect 9 3% 2% to as “the cedar grove”, which can be found near

the northeastern extent of the site. This area is one

of the few parts of the preserve where conifer

species (Juniperus virginiana) consistently make

up portions of the canopy. For that reason, this 95% area of the preserve is best labeled as an upland

Native Non Native Invasive mixed conifer-hardwood habitat.

The cedar grove is also the hub for student ecological restoration projects, serving as an outdoor classroom, as well as a model of what a successful ecological restoration project looks like. This segment of the preserve boasts a 95% coverage of native species, with only 2% of the coverage of this transect being invasive species. Dominant canopy species found along the transect include southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), live oak (Quercus virginiana), southern red cedar

(Juniperus virginiana), and laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia). The subcanopy includes many of the same species as the canopy, as well as wild coffee (Psychotria nervosa), the endangered yellow- anise (Illicium parviflorum), and sabal palm (Sabal palmetto). The ground cover was rather sparse, though notable species include coontie (Zamia integrifolia), saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), and possum grape (Cissus verticillate). Though possum grape is seen as a weedy species, it is a beneficial native plant that is relatively rare north of Tampa. There are only 3 observations of possum grape (as of April 2021) in Central Florida per Inaturalist, and one of them is at the Genius Preserve. For that reason, I recommend that the removal of this vine be highly limited on the property as to ensure extirpation within the site does not occur. Transect 10

Located along the upland ridge in the core of the Transect 10 preserve, Transect 10 is the most “xeric” of

4% 11% transects. This is the only transect that does not

contain any FACW or OBL species. The habitat

type is best classified as mesic mixed hardwood,

85% given the location and presence of FAC species.

Much like Transect 8, this transect is largely Native Non Native Invasive pastoral, with no subcanopy, and the groundcover is consistently mowed to give a “lawn” appearance. The transect is dominated by native species at 85% total coverage averaged across all strata. 11% of the total coverage is by invasive species.

Canopy species for this transect include pignut hickory (Carya glabra), live oak (Quercus virginiana), sabal palm (Sabal palmetto), and camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora). The groundcover stratum consists of many grass and grass like species, including four-angle flatsedge (Cyperus tetragonus), smut grass (Sporobolus indicus), and basketgrass (Oplismenus setarius).

Transect 11

Transect 7 is located in the core of the preserve Transect 11 just north of the Ward house. It has unique

topography due to it’s presence near the gravel 25% road. The road slopes down, causing there to be a

depressional effect where the transect is located.

75% Because of this, many species found within this

transect are either FAC or FACW. This transect is

Native Non Native Invasive best classified as a mesic mixed hardwood habitat type. Much like the other transects located in the core of the preserve, this transect is pastoral in nature due to the absence of a subcanopy and the mowed groundcover.

Dominate canopy species are live oak (Quercus virginiana), and Caribbean trumpet tree

(Tabebuia aurea). The groundcover is comprised of many common lawn species as well as some wildflowers. Notable species include Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon), blanket crabgrass

(Digitaria serotina), and annual blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium rosulatum).

Transect 12

Transect 12 is located near the southern boundary Transect 12 of the eastern flank of the preserve. Much like the

14% Transects 10 & 11, this transect is pastoral in

5% nature with very little subcanopy, and a mowed

ground cover. The canopy is very dense and

81% shades the ground cover for nearly the entire day,

thus the ground cover here is rather sparse

Native Non Native Invasive compared to other areas considered “pastoral” on the preserve. The habitat is best classified as upland mixed hardwood. Though the only hardwood species that cover this transect are live oaks (Quercus virginiana), there are enough pignut hickories (Carya glabra), southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), and other hardwood species within the general proximity to give it a “mixed hardwood” classification. There is a single sabal palm (Sabal palmetto) within the subcanopy, though this offers minimal transect coverage which still allows for a pastoral setting. Ground cover species found include cats-claw vine (Dolichandra unguis-cati), river sage (Salvia misella), and Baldwin’s flatsedge (Cyperus croceus).

Endangered and Endemic Plants

Genius is home to three listed plant species, and three Florida endemic species. The listings are based on the Florida Department of Agriculture’s regulated plant index. Below is the list of these plants found at the Genius Preserve and their official listings.

Endangered- Tillandsia utriculata wild pine State Tillandsia simulata Florida airplant Endemic Endangered- Illicium parviflorum yellow anise State, Endemic Sideroxylon rufohirtum Rufous Florida bully Endemic Myrcianthes fragrans simpson stopper Threatened-State

6 Endangered Tillandsia utriculata on Quercus virginiana

Invasive Species

Part of the initiative of this research project was documenting the presence of invasive species at the preserve, as well as providing a percent coverage of each invasive species along each transect, to resemble a baseline to be improved on as the ecological restoration projects continue into the future. Of the 195 vascular plant species documented at the preserve, 30 species are classified as either a category 1 or a category 2 invasive species, according to the Florida Exotic Plant Pest

Council (FLEPPC). There was presence of invasive species on 11 of the 12 transects covered during this research project. Each species is listed as either EPPC(I) (Category 1 invasive), or

EPPC(II) (Category 2 invasive) on the transect figures and the complete flora figure. According to

FLEPPC, a Category 1 invasive species is one that is altering native plant habitats, and a Category

2 invasive is one that is deemed to have the potential to alter native habitats, and one that has the potential to eventually be classified as a Category 1. If they are non-native, but not invasive, they are simply listed as “Non-Native”. Below is a list of each invasive species documented at Genius

Preserve, as well as their invasive status per FLEPPC.

7 Invasive Psidium cattleianum FLEPPC Invasive Plant Species Found Within the Limits of Genius Preserve

Schinus terebinthifolia Brazillian pepper EPPC(I) Colocasia esculenta taro EPPC(I) Syngonium podophyllum American evergreen EPPC(I) Schefflera actinophylla octopus tree EPPC(I) Dolichandra unguis-cati cats claw vine EPPC(I) Dioscorea bulbifera air potato EPPC(I) Abrus precatorius rosary pea EPPC(I) Eugenia uniflora Surinam cherry EPPC(I) Cinnamomum camphora camphor tree EPPC(I) Urena lobata caesar weed EPPC(I) Melaleuca quinquenervia melaleuca EPPC(I) Psidium cattleianum strawberry guava EPPC(I) Nephrolepis cordifolia tuberous sword fern EPPC(I) Ludwigia peruviana Peruvian primrosewillow EPPC(I) Paederia foetida skunk vine EPPC(I) Lygodium japonicum Japanese climbing fern EPPC(I) Lantana strigocamara lantana EPPC(I) Ruellia blechum shrimp plant EPPC(II) Alternanthera philoxeroides alligator weed EPPC(II) Xanthosoma sagittifolium elephant's ear EPPC(II) Syagrus romanzoffiana queen palm EPPC(II) Crassocephalum crepidioides redflower ragleaf EPPC(II) Praxelis clematidea praxelis EPPC(II) Begonia cucullata wax begonia EPPC(II) Momordica charantia balsam apple EPPC(II) Cyperus involucratus umbrella papyrus EPPC(II) Melia azedarach China berry EPPC(II) Urochloa maxima guineagrass EPPC(II) Solanum diphyllum twoleaf nightshade EPPC(II)

Through the continued management of the preserve, it is possible that many of these species will eventually become extirpated from the site. For example, only one Melaleuca quinquenervia,

Psidium cattleianum, and Schefflera actinophylla were seen throughout the survey; removal of either of these specimens would eradicate, or presumably eradicate, these species from the site. Acknowledgments

Many people assisted with the completion of this project. First and foremost, Dr. Bruce Stephenson contributed through allowing me to work and study the ecology of Genius Preserve throughout my years at Rollins College. Botanist Edwin Bridges provided me with identification guidance on many of the challenging plant species. Bridges also provided me with several floristic research analysis done by him and his colleagues for me to reference in guiding me on how to organize my research. Also, a huge thanks to the Genius/Morse Foundation for the continued investment in

Rollins College students such as I, and allowing us to study the unique grounds of the Genius

Preserve. Appendix A Comprehensive Plant Inventory Spring 2021 Family Scientific Name Common Name Wetland Status Native Status Notes Acanthaceae Odontonema cuspidatum firespike N/A Non-native Ruellia blechum shrimp plant N/A EPPC(II) Ruellia dipteracanthus petunia N/A Non-native Adoxaceae Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis elderberry FAC Native Amaranthaceae Alternanthera philoxeroides alligator weed OBL EPPC(II) Gomphrena serrata gomphrena weed N/A Non-native Anacardiaceae Rhus copallinum winged sumac N/A Native Schinus terebinthifolia Brazillian pepper FAC EPPC(I) Toxicodendron radicans poison ivy N/A Native Annonaceae Asimina parviflora smallflower pawpaw N/A Native Apiaceae Cyclospermum leptophyllum marsh parsley N/A Non-native Apocynaceae Asclepias curassavica tropical milkweed N/A Non-native Trachelospermum jasminoides confederate jasmine N/A Non-native Aquifoliaceae Ilex cassine dahoon holly OBL Native Ilex vomitoria yuapon holly FAC Native Araceae Colocasia esculenta taro OBL EPPC(I) Syngonium podophyllum American evergreen N/A EPPC(I) Xanthosoma sagittifolium elephant's ear FACW EPPC(II) Araliaceae Hydrocotyle umbellata dollarweed FACW Native Schefflera actinophylla octopus tree N/A EPPC(I) Schefflera arboricola dwarf umbrella tree N/A Non-native Arecaceae Sabal palmetto sabal palm FAC Native Serenoa repens saw palm N/A Native Syagrus romanzoffiana queen palm N/A EPPC(II) Asteraceae Ambrosia artemisiifolia common ragweed N/A Native Bidens alba spanish needles FAC Native Crassocephalum crepidioides redflower ragleaf N/A EPPC(II) Emilia fosbergii Florida tasselflower N/A Non-native Emilia sonchifolia lilac tasselflower N/A Non-native Erigeron quercifolius oak leaf fleabane FAC Native Eupatorium capillifolium dog fennel FAC Native Helianthus radula rayless sunflower N/A Native Praxelis clematidea praxelis N/A EPPC(II) Sonchus asper sowthistle N/A Non-native Symphyotrichum carolinianum climbing aster OBL Native Symphyotrichum elliottii Elliot's aster OBL Native Baccharis halimifolia salt bush FAC Native Erechtites hieraciifolius American burnweed FAC Native Erigeron canadensis horseweed N/A Native Gamochaeta pensylvanica Pennsylvania cudweed N/A Non-native Gamochaeta purpurea purple cudweed N/A Native Lactuca floridana woodland lettuce N/A Native Lactuca graminifolia grassleaf lettuce N/A Native Mikania scandens hempvine N/A Native Pluchea odorata sweetscent FACW Native Youngia japonica oriental false hawksbeard N/A Non-native Begoniaceae Begonia cucullata wax begonia N/A EPPC(II) Bignoniaceae Dolichandra unguis-cati cats claw vine N/A EPPC(I) Tabebuia aurea Caribbean trumpet tree N/A Non-native Jacaranda mimosifolia jacaranda N/A Non-native Blechnaceae Telmatoblechnum serrulatum swamp fern FACW Native Brassicaceae Lepidium virginicum Virginia pepperweed N/A Native Bromeliaceae Tillandsia recurvata ball moss N/A Native Tillandsia simulata Florida airplant N/A Native Endemic Tillandsia usneoides spanish moss N/A Native Tillandsia utriculata wild pine N/A Native Endangered-State Campanulaceae Triodanis perfoliata clasping venus' looking glass N/A Native Caprifoliaceae Lonicera sempervirens coral honeysuckle N/A Native Caricaceae Carica papaya papaya N/A Native Caryophyllales Drymaria cordata drymary FAC Non-native Chenopodiaceae Chenopodium album lamb's quarters N/A Non-native Commelinaceae Commelina diffusa common dayflower FACW Non-native Tradescantia ohiensis Spiderwort N/A Native Convolvulaceae Dichondra carolinensis Carolina ponysfoot FAC Native Ipomoea hederifolia scarlet creeper N/A Native Cornaceae Cornus foemina swamp dogwood FACW Native Cucurbitaceae Momordica charantia balsam apple N/A EPPC(II) Cupressaceae Juniperus virginiana eastern red cedar N/A Native Taxodium distichum bald cypress OBL Native Cyperaceae Carex longii Long's sedge FACW Native Cyperus brevifolius shortleaf spike sedge FACW Non-native Cyperus croceus Baldwins flatsedge FAC Native Cyperus involucratus umbrella papyrus OBL EPPC(II) Cyperus tetragonus fourangle flatsedge FAC Native Scleria triglomerata whip nutrush FACW Native Dennstaedtiaceae Pteridium aquilinum var. pseudocaudatum bracken fern N/A Native Dioscoreaceae Dioscorea bulbifera air potato N/A EPPC(I) Ebenacea Diospyros virginiana common persimmon FAC Native Ericacea Lyonia ferruginea rusty lyonia N/A Native Lyonia lucida fetterbush FACW Native Euphorbiaceae Euphorbia hirta asthma plant N/A Native Fabaceae Abrus precatorius rosary pea N/A EPPC(I) Apios americana groundnut N/A Native Cercis canadensis eastern redbud N/A Native Desmodium incanum kaimi clover N/A Non-native Enterolobium contortisiliquum eartree N/A Non-native Erythrina herbacea coral bean N/A Native Senna occidentalis coffee senna N/A Non-native Fagaceae Quercus falcata spanish oak N/A Native Quercus laurifolia laurel oak FACW Native Quercus nigra water oak FACW Native Quercus virginiana live oak N/A Native Fumariaceae Corydalis halei southern corydalis N/A Native Fumaria officinalis common fumitory N/A Non-native Geraniaceae Geranium carolinianum Carolina cranesbill N/A Native Iridaceae Iris savannarum savannah iris OBL Native Sisyrinchium angustifolium narrow leaf blue-eyed grass FACW Native Sisyrinchium rosulatum annual blue-eyed grass N/A Non-native Iteaceae Itea virginica virginia sweetspire OBL Native Juglandaceae Carya glabra pignut hickory N/A Native Lamiaceae Callicarpa americana beautyberry N/A Native Clinopodium brownei St. Johns mint OBL Native Salvia coccinea tropical sage N/A Native Salvia misella river sage N/A Native Salvia lyrata lyre leaf sage N/A Native Lauraceae Cinnamomum camphora camphor tree N/A EPPC(I) Persea americana avacado N/A Non-native Persea borbonia red bay N/A Native Persea palustris swamp bay OBL Native Lentibulariaceae Utricularia inflata floating bladderwort OBL Native Lythraceae Lagerstroemia indica crape myrtle N/A Non-native Magnoliaceae Magnolia grandiflora southern magnolia N/A Native Magnolia virginiana sweet bay OBL Native Malvaceae Malvaviscus penduliflorus turks cap N/A Non-native Sida rhombifolia Cuban jute N/A Native Urena lobata caesar weed N/A EPPC(I) Meliaceae Melia azedarach China berry N/A EPPC(II) Moraceae Morus rubra red mulberry FAC Native Musaceae Musa x paradisiaca common banana N/A Non-native Myricaceae Morella cerifera wax myrtle FAC Native Myrtcaceae Eugenia uniflora Surinam cherry N/A EPPC(I) Melaleuca quinquenervia melaleuca FAC EPPC(I) Myrcianthes fragrans simpson stopper N/A Native Threatened-State Psidium cattleianum strawberry guava FAC EPPC(I) Nephrolepidaceae Nephrolepis cordifolia tuberous sword fern FAC EPPC(I) Nyctaginaceae Bougainvillea spectabilis bougainvillea N/A Non-native Nyssaceae Nyssa biflora swamp tupelo OBL Native Oleaceae Cartrema americanum wild olive N/A Native Onagraceae Ludwigia peruviana Peruvian primrosewillow OBL EPPC(I) Oenothera laciniata cutleaf evening primrose N/A Native Orchidaceae Encyclia tampensis butterfly orchid N/A Native Osmundaceae Osmunda regalis var. spectabilis royal fern OBL Native Oxalidaceae Oxalis corniculata common yellow woodsorrel N/A Native Oxalis debilis pink woodsorrel N/A Non-native Passifloraceae Passiflora suberosa corkystem passionvine N/A Native Petiveriaceae Rivina humilis Rougeplant N/A Native Phyllanthaceae Phyllanthus tenellus Mascarene Island leaf flower N/A Non-native Phytolaccaceae Phytolacca americana American pokweed N/A Native Pinaceae Pinus elliottii slash pine N/A Native Plantaginaceae Linaria canadensis Canadian toadflax N/A Native Linaria floridana Florida toadflax N/A Native Poaceae Cynodon dactylon Bermuda grass N/A Non-native Dichanthelium commutatum variable witchgrass FAC Native Digitaria serotina blanket crabgrass FAC Native Oplismenus setarius basket grass N/A Native Panicum hemitomon maidencane OBL Native Paspalum setaceum thin paspalum FAC Native Sporobolus indicus smut grass N/A Non-native Urochloa maxima guineagrass N/A EPPC(II) Polygonaceae Rumex verticillatus swamp rumex FACW Native Polypodiaceae Pleopeltis michauxiana resurrection fern N/A Native Portulacaceae Portulaca pilosa pink purslane N/A Native Proteaceae Grevillea robusta silk oak N/A Non-native Rosaceae Prunus caroliniana cherry laurel N/A Native Prunus serotina black cherry N/A Native Prunus umbellata flatwoods plum N/A Native Rubus pensilvanicus Pennsylvania blackberry FAC Native Rubiaceae Cephalanthus occidentalis button bush OBL Native Paederia foetida skunk vine N/A EPPC(I) Psychotria nervosa wild coffee FAC Native Richardia brasiliensis mexican clover N/A Non-native Spermacoce remota woodland false buttonweed N/A Native Rutaceae Atalantia buxifolia Chinese boxorange N/A Non-native Rutaceae Citrus sp. citrus N/A Non-native Santalaceae Phoradendron leucarpum American mistletoe N/A Native Sapindaceae Acer rubrum red maple FACW Native Sapotaceae Sideroxylon tenax tough bully N/A Native Sideroxylon rufohirtum Rufous Florida bully FAC Native Endemic Saururaceae Saururus cernuus lizard's tail OBL Native Endangered-State, Schisandraceae Illicium parviflorum yellow anise FACW Native Endemic Schizaeaceae Lygodium japonicum Japanese climbing fern N/A EPPC(I) Smilacaceae Smilax bona-nox saw greenbriar N/A Native Solanaceae Cestrum nocturnum night jessamine N/A Non-native Solanum americanum American nightshade N/A Native Solanum diphyllum twoleaf nightshade N/A EPPC(II) Thelypteridaceae Thelypteris kunthii southern shield fern FACW Native Macrothelypteris torresiana Mariana maiden fern OBL Non-native Typhaceae Typha domingensis southern cattail OBL Native Ulmaceae Celtis laevigata sugarberry FACW Native Urticaceae Boehmeria cylindrica false nettle OBL Native Parietaria floridana Florida pellitory FAC Native Pilea microphylla rockweed FACW Native Pouzolzia zeylanica pouzolzia N/A Non-native Urtica chamaedryoides dwarf stinging nettle N/A Native Verbenaceae Lantana strigocamara lantana N/A EPPC(I) Phyla nodiflora frog fruit FAC Native Stachytarpheta cayennensis nettleleaf velvetberry N/A EPPC(II) Stachytarpheta jamaicensis blue porterweed N/A Native Vitaceae Cissus verticillata possum grape N/A Native Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper N/A Native Vitis rotundifolia muscadine grape vine N/A Native Zamiaceae Zamia furfuracea cardboard palm N/A Non-native Zamia integrifolia coontie N/A Native Zingiberaceae Alpinia zerumbet shellflower ginger N/A Non-native Adoxaceae Viburnum obovatum Walter's viburnum FACW Native Appendix B Transect Data Sheets Spring 2021 Transect # 1 Percent Transect Coverage Scientific Name Common Name % Native Status Wetland Status - DEP Canopy Cinnamomum camphora camphor tree 8 EPPC(I) N/A Quercus virginiana live oak 10 Native N/A Morella cerifera wax myrtle 4 Native FAC Syagrus romanzoffiana queen palm 2 EPPC(II) N/A Magnolia virginiana sweet bay 3 Native OBL Quercus nigra water oak 20 Native FACW Ilex cassine dahoon holly 3 Native OBL Total Coverage - 50% Subcanopy Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis elderberry 2 Native FAC Total Coverage - 2% Groundcover Sphagneticola trilobata woodelia 2 EPPC(II) FAC Gelsemium sempervirens yellow jessamine 4 Native N/A Nephrolepis cordifolia tuberous sword fern 10 EPPC(I) FAC Urena lobata ceasar weed 3 EPPC(I) N/A Vitis rotundifolia grape vine 1 Native N/A Cinnamomum camphora camphor tree 1 EPPC(I) N/A Quercus nigra water oak 2 Native FACW Toxicodendron radicans poison ivy 5 Native N/A Telmatoblechnum serrulatum swamp fern 15 Native FACW Dichanthelium commutatum variable witchgrass 2 Native FAC Paederia foetida skunk vine 2 EPPC(I) N/A Carex longii long's sedge 1 Native FACW Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper 1 Native N/A Itea virginica Virginia sweetspire 8 Native OBL Rubus pensilvanicus Pennsylvania blackberry 4 Native FAC Callicarpa americana beauty berry 1 Native N/A Ilex cassine dahoon holly 2 Native OBL Thelypteris kunthii southern shield fern 5 Native FACW Total Coverage - 69%

Wetland Status: OBL - Occurs almost always in wetland FACW - Usually occurs in wetland EPPC(I) - Category 1 Invasive FAC - Equally in wetland and non-wetland EPPC(II) - Category 2 Invasive Transect 1

Transect 1 Transect # 2 Percent Transect Coverage Scientific Name Common Name % Native Status Wetland Status - DEP Canopy Quercus virginiana live oak 20 Native N/A Taxodium distichum bald cypress 13 Native OBL Sabal palmetto sabal palm 10 Native FAC Cinnamomum camphora camphor tree 3 EPPC(I) N/A Total Coverage - 46% Subcanopy Sabal palmetto sabal palm 3 Native FAC Musa x paradisiaca banana 15 Non-Native N/A Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis elderberry 4 Native FAC Morella cerifera wax myrtle 4 Native FAC Magnolia grandiflora southern magnolia 2 Native N/A Total Coverage - 28% Groundcover Apios americana groundnut 2 Native N/A Telmatoblechnum serrulatum swamp fern 30 Native FACW Xanthosoma sagittifolium elephant's ear 3 EPPC(II) FACW Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis elderberry 1 Native FAC Youngia japonica oriental false hawksbeard 5 Non-Native N/A Morella cerifera wax myrtle 3 Native FAC Pilea microphylla rock weed 8 Native FACW Vitis rotundifolia muscadine grape vine 3 Native N/A Thelypteris kunthii southern shield fern 2 Native FACW Emilia fosbergii Florida tasselflower 1 Non-Native N/A Urtica chamaedryoides dwarf stinging nettle 2 Native N/A Hydrocotyle umbellata dollarweed 5 Native FACW Oxalis corniculata common yellow woodsorrel 1 Native N/A Commelina diffusa common dayflower 5 Non-Native FACW Urena lobata ceasarweed 3 EPPC(I) N/A Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper 1 Native N/A Solanum americanum American nightshade 1 Native N/A Rubus pensilvanicus Pennsylvania blackberry 1 Native FAC Lactuca floridana woodland lettuce 4 Native N/A Spermacoce remota woodland false buttonweed 1 Native N/A Total Coverage - 82%

Wetland Status: OBL - Occurs almost always in wetland FACW - Usually occurs in wetland EPPC(I) - Category 1 Invasive FAC - Equally in wetland and non-wetland EPPC(II) - Category 2 Invasive Transect 2

Transect 2 Transect # 3 Percent Transect Coverage Scientific Name Common Name % Native Status Wetland Status - DEP Canopy Quercus virginiana live oak 30 Native N/A Magnolia Grandiflora southern magnolia 10 Native N/A Prunus serotina black cherry 25 Native N/A Sabal palmetto sabal palm 10 Native FAC Carya glabra pignut hickory 25 Native N/A Total Coverage - 100% Subcanopy Callicarpa americana beauty berry 15 Native N/A Serenoa repens saw palmetto 1 Native N/A Citrus sp. citrus 2 Non-native N/A Sabal palmetto sabal palm 8 Native FAC Total Coverage - 26% Groundcover Scleria triglomerata tall nutgrass 30 Native FACW Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper 5 Native N/A Cinnamomum camphora camphor tree 1 EPPC(I) N/A Vitis rotundifolia muscadine grape vine 3 Native N/A Callicarpa americana beauty berry 3 Native N/A Commelina diffusa common dayflower 4 Non-Native FACW Gelsemium sempervirens yellow jessamine 2 Native N/A Urena lobata ceasar weed 1 EPPC(I) N/A Magnolia Grandiflora southern magnolia 4 Native N/A Smilax bona-nox saw greenbriar 1 Native N/A Sabal palmetto sabal palm 2 Native FAC Oxalis corniculata common yellow woodsorrel 3 Native N/A Dichanthelium commutatum variable witchgrass 3 Native FAC Carya glabra pignut hickory 2 Native N/A Tillandsia utriculata wild pine 1 Native N/A Psychotria nervosa wild coffee 1 Native FAC Quercus nigra water oak 3 Native FACW Prunus caroliniana cherry laurel 3 Native N/A Telmatoblechnum serrulatum swamp fern 4 Native FACW Nephrolepis cordifolia tuberous sword fern 3 EPPC(I) FAC Total Coverage - 79%

Wetland Status: OBL - Occurs almost always in wetland FACW - Usually occurs in wetland EPPC(I) - Category 1 Invasive FAC - Equally in wetland and non-wetland EPPC(II) - Category 2 Invasive Transect 3

Transect 3 Transect # 4 Percent Transect Coverage Scientific Name Common Name % Native Status Wetland Status - DEP Canopy Magnolia Grandiflora southern magnolia 35 Native N/A Carya glabra pignut hickory 45 Native N/A Persea borbonia red bay 3 Native N/A Total Coverage - 83% Subcanopy Callicarpa americana beauty berry 3 Native N/A Sabal palmetto sabal palm 10 Native FAC Syagrus romanzoffiana queen palm 1 EPPC(II) N/A Total Coverage - 14% Groundcover Urena lobata ceasar weed 3 EPPC(I) N/A Fumaria officinalis common fumitory 1 Non-native N/A Paederia foetida skunkvine 2 EPPC(I) N/A Prunus caroliniana cherry laurel 5 Native N/A Urochloa maxima guineagrass 25 EPPC(II) N/A Commelina diffusa common dayflower 2 Non-Native FACW Rivina humilis rougeplant 3 Native N/A Bidens alba spanish needles 3 Native FAC Carya glabra pignut hickory 2 Native N/A Momordica charantia balsam apple 1 EPPC(II) N/A Callicarpa americana beauty berry 3 Native N/A Zamia integrifolia coontie 2 Native N/A Phytolacca americana American pokweed 1 Native N/A Psychotria nervosa wild coffee 1 Native FAC Dichanthelium commutatum variable witchgrass 2 Native FAC Quercus virginiana live oak 2 Native N/A Ambrosia artemisiifolia common ragweed 1 Native N/A Erythrina herbacea coral bean 1 Native N/A Nephrolepis cordifolia tuberous sword fern 30 EPPC(I) FAC Total Coverage - 90%

Wetland Status: OBL - Occurs almost always in wetland FACW - Usually occurs in wetland EPPC(I) - Category 1 Invasive FAC - Equally in wetland and non-wetland EPPC(II) - Category 2 Invasive Transect 4

Transect 4 Transect # 5 Percent Transect Coverage Scientific Name Common Name % Native Status Wetland Status - DEP Canopy Quercus virginiana live oak 25 Native N/A Total Coverage - 25% Subcanopy Serenoa repens saw palmetto 80 Native N/A Lyonia ferruginea rusty lyonia 5 Native N/A Quercus laurifolia laurel oak 3 Native FACW Rhus copallinum winged sumac 2 Native N/A Magnolia Grandiflora southern magnolia 1 Native N/A Total Coverage - 91% Groundcover Vitis rotundifolia muscadine grape vine 5 Native N/A Telmatoblechnum serrulatum swamp fern 2 Native FACW Carya glabra pignut hickory 1 Native N/A Urena lobata ceasar weed 1 EPPC(I) N/A Quercus virginiana live oak 1 Native N/A Psychotria nervosa wild coffee 1 Native FAC Persea borbonia red bay 1 Native N/A Total Coverage - 12%

Wetland Status: OBL - Occurs almost always in wetland FACW - Usually occurs in wetland EPPC(I) - Category 1 Invasive FAC - Equally in wetland and non-wetland EPPC(II) - Category 2 Invasive Transect 5

Transect 5 Transect # 6 Percent Transect Coverage Wetland Status - Scientific Name Common Name % Native Status DEP Canopy Quercus laurifolia laurel oak 15 Native FACW Cinnamomum camphora camphor tree 18 EPPC(I) N/A Carya glabra pignut hickory 15 Native N/A Total Coverage - 48% Subcanopy Psidium cattleianum strawberry guava 3 EPPC(I) FAC Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis elderberry 2 Native FAC Itea virginica Virginia sweetspire 5 Native OBL Cephalanthus occidentalis button bush 3 Native OBL Morella cerifera wax myrtle 4 Native FAC Lantana strigocamara lantana 1 EPPC(I) N/A Callicarpa americana beauty berry 2 Native N/A Persea palustris swamp bay 2 Native OBL Rhus copallinum winged sumac 1 Native N/A Lyonia lucida fetterbush 2 Native FACW Ludwigia peruviana Peruvian primrosewillow 2 EPPC(I) OBL Schinus terebinthifolia Brazillian pepper 1 EPPC(I) FAC Total Coverage - 28% Groundcover Pteridium aquilinum var. pseudocaudatum bracken fern 55 Native N/A Vitis rotundifolia muscadine grape vine 3 Native N/A Smilax bona-nox saw greenbriar 1 Native N/A Gelsemium sempervirens yellow jessamine 2 Native N/A Telmatoblechnum serrulatum swamp fern 11 Native FACW Cinnamomum camphora camphor tree 1 EPPC(I) N/A Paederia foetida skunkvine 2 EPPC(I) N/A Itea virginica Virginia sweetspire 8 Native OBL Lygodium japonicum Japanese climbing fern 2 EPPC(I) N/A Nephrolepis cordifolia tuberous sword fern 3 EPPC(I) FAC Urena lobata ceasar weed 1 EPPC(I) N/A Quercus laurifolia laurel oak 1 Native FACW Rubus pensilvanicus Pennsylvania blackberry 8 Native FAC Osmunda regalis var. spectabilis royal fern 2 Native OBL Total Coverage - 100%

Wetland Status: OBL - Occurs almost always in wetland FACW - Usually occurs in wetland EPPC(I) - Category 1 Invasive FAC - Equally in wetland and non-wetland EPPC(II) - Category 2 Invasive Transect 6

Transect 6 Transect # 7 Percent Transect Coverage Scientific Name Common Name % Native Status Wetland Status - DEP Canopy Acer rubrum red maple 25 Native FACW Taxodium distichum bald cypress 65 Native OBL Nyssa biflora swamp tupelo 5 Native OBL Total Coverage - 95% Subcanopy Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis elderberry 10 Native FAC Cestrum nocturnum night jessamine 2 Non-native N/A Acer rubrum red maple 5 Native FACW Cornus foemina swamp dogwood 3 Native FACW Ilex cassine dahoon holly 3 Native OBL Taxodium distichum bald cypress 5 Native OBL Ludwigia peruviana Peruvian primrosewillow 2 EPPC(I) OBL Total Coverage - 30% Groundcover Bidens alba spanish needles 3 Native FAC Thelypteris kunthii southern shield fern 5 Native FACW Geranium carolinianum Carolina cranesbill 3 Native N/A Urena lobata ceasar weed 1 EPPC(I) N/A Crassocephalum crepidioides redflower ragleaf 1 EPPC(II) N/A Erechtites hieraciifolius American burnweed 1 Native FAC Cyperus brevifolius shortleaf spike sedge 1 Non-native FACW Emilia sonchifolia lilac tasselflower 3 Non-native N/A Colocasia esculent taro 2 EPPC(I) OBL Ludwigia peruviana Peruvian primrosewillow 1 EPPC(I) OBL Hydrocotyle umbellata dollarweed 3 Native FACW Oxalis debilis pink woodsorrel 3 Non-native N/A Rumex verticillatus swamp rumex 2 Native FACW Begonia cucullata wax begonia 3 EPPC(II) N/A Apios americana groundnut 3 Native N/A Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper 3 Native N/A Rivina humilis rougeplant 3 Native N/A Salvia misella river sage 5 Native N/A Paederia foetida skunkvine 1 EPPC(I) N/A Pouzolzia zeylanica pouzolzia 2 Non-native N/A Cestrum nocturnum night jessamine 4 Non-native N/A Commelina diffusa common dayflower 2 Non-Native FACW Youngia japonica oriental false hawksbeard 2 Non-Native N/A Persea borbonia red bay 3 Native N/A Clinopodium brownei St. Johns mint 3 Native OBL Symphyotrichum elliottii Elliot's aster 3 Native OBL Drymaria cordata drymary 1 Non-native FAC Juniperus virginiana eastern red cedar 1 Native N/A Eupatorium capillifolium dog fennel 3 Native FAC Parietaria floridana Florida pellitory 3 Native FAC Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis elderberry 3 Native FAC Mikania scadens hempvine 2 Native N/A Gamochaeta purpurea purple cudweed 1 Native N/A Melia azedarach China berry 2 EPPC(II) N/A Psychotria nervosa wild coffee 1 Native FAC Boehmeria cylindrica false nettle 2 Native OBL Macrothelypteris torresiana Mariana maiden fern 10 Non-native N/A Total Coverage - 95%

Wetland Status: OBL - Occurs almost always in wetland FACW - Usually occurs in wetland EPPC(I) - Category 1 Invasive FAC - Equally in wetland and non-wetland EPPC(II) - Category 2 Invasive Transect 7

Transect 7 Transect # 8 Percent Transect Coverage Scientific Name Common Name % Native Status Wetland Status - DEP Canopy Celtis laevigata sugarberry 3 Native FACW Quercus virginiana live oak 40 Native N/A Carya glabra pignut hickory 3 Native N/A Total Coverage - 46% Subcanopy Total Coverage - 0% Groundcover Dichondra carolinensis Carolina ponysfoot 2 Native FAC Bidens alba spanish needles 3 Native FAC Salvia misella river sage 5 Native N/A Cyperus croceus Baldwins flatsedge 10 Native FAC Desmodium incanum kaimi clover 3 Non-native N/A Emilia sonchifolia lilac tasselflower 5 Non-native N/A Emilia fosbergii Florida tasselflower 4 Non-native N/A Geranium carolinianum Carolina cranesbill 6 Native N/A Cynodon dactylon Bermuda grass 15 Non-native N/A Gamochaeta purpurea purple cudweed 4 Native N/A Richardia brasiliensis mexican clover 2 Non-native N/A Phyllanthus tenellus Mascarene Island leaf flower 1 Non-native N/A Oxalis corniculata common yellow woodsorrel 2 Native N/A Euphorbia hirta asthma plant 1 Native N/A Urochloa maxima guineagrass 10 EPPC(II) N/A Digitaria serotina blanket crabgrass 12 Native FAC Ruellia blechum shrimp plant 1 EPPC(II) N/A Portulaca pilosa pink purslane 1 Native N/A Parietaria floridana Florida pellitory 2 Native FAC Commelina diffusa common dayflower 5 Non-Native FACW Sida rhombifolia Cuban jute 1 Native N/A Solanum americanum American nightshade 1 Native N/A Fumaria officinalis common fumitory 1 Non-native N/A Cissus verticillata possum grape 1 Native N/A Total Coverage - 98%

Wetland Status: OBL - Occurs almost always in wetland FACW - Usually occurs in wetland EPPC(I) - Category 1 Invasive FAC - Equally in wetland and non-wetland EPPC(II) - Category 2 Invasive Transect 8

Transect 8 Transect # 9 Percent Transect Coverage Scientific Name Common Name % Native Status Wetland Status - DEP Canopy Quercus laurifolia laurel oak 20 Native FACW Magnolia grandiflora southern magnolia 30 Native N/A Juniperus virginiana southern red cedar 5 Native N/A Quercus virginiana live oak 30 Native N/A Total Coverage - 85% Subcanopy Serenoa repens saw palmetto 3 Native N/A Psychotria nervosa wild coffee 35 Native FAC Magnolia grandiflora southern magnolia 10 Native N/A Illicium parviflorum yellow anise 3 Native FACW Sabal palmetto sabal palm 5 Native FAC Juniperus virginiana southern red cedar 3 Native N/A Total Coverage - 59% Groundcover Cyperus croceus Baldwins flatsedge 1 Native FAC Spermacoce remota woodland false buttonweed 1 Native N/A Rivina humilis rougeplant 1 Native N/A Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper 2 Native N/A Parietaria floridana Florida pellitory 3 Native FAC Asclepias curassavica tropical milkweed 1 Non-native N/A Richardia brasiliensis mexican clover 1 Non-native N/A Oplismenus setarius basket grass 1 Native N/A Dichondra carolinensis Carolina ponysfoot 2 Native FAC Phyllanthus tenellus Mascarene Island leaf flower 1 Non-native N/A Zamia integrifolia coontie 1 Native N/A Serenoa repens saw palmetto 3 Native N/A Psychotria nervosa wild coffee 3 Native FAC Momordica charantia balsam apple 1 EPPC(II) N/A Cissus verticillata possum grape 1 Native N/A Urena lobata ceasarweed 1 EPPC(I) N/A Salvia misella river sage 1 Native N/A Bidens alba spanish needles 2 Native FAC Cyperus tetragonus fourangle flatsedge 1 Native FAC Cinnamomum camphora camphor tree 1 EPPC(I) N/A Fumaria officinalis common fumitory 1 Non-native N/A Commelina diffusa common dayflower 1 Non-Native FACW Total Coverage - 31%

Wetland Status: OBL - Occurs almost always in wetland FACW - Usually occurs in wetland EPPC(I) - Category 1 Invasive FAC - Equally in wetland and non-wetland EPPC(II) - Category 2 Invasive Transect 9

Transect 9 Transect #10 Percent Transect Coverage Scientific Name Common Name % Native Status Wetland Status - DEP Canopy Quercus virginiana live oak 20 Native N/A Carya glabra pignut hickory 40 Native N/A Cinnamomum camphora camphor tree 15 EPPC(I) N/A Sabal palmetto sabal palm 10 Native FAC Total Coverage - 85% Subcanopy Total Coverage - 0% Groundcover Cyperus tetragonus fourangle flatsedge 4 Native FAC Sporobolus indicus smut grass 3 Non-native N/A Oplismenus setarius basket grass 20 Native N/A Lepidium virginicum Virginia pepperweed 1 Native N/A Dichondra carolinensis Carolina ponysfoot 30 Native FAC Gamochaeta purpurea purple cudweed 3 Native N/A Richardia brasiliensis mexican clover 3 Non-native N/A Digitaria serotina blanket crabgrass 12 Native FAC Sida rhombifolia Cuban jute 1 Native N/A Dolichandra unguis-cati cats claw vine 2 EPPC(I) N/A Bidens alba spanish needles 2 Native FAC Urena lobata ceasarweed 1 EPPC(I) N/A Desmodium incanum kaimi clover 1 Non-native N/A Total Coverage - 83%

Wetland Status: OBL - Occurs almost always in wetland FACW - Usually occurs in wetland EPPC(I) - Category 1 Invasive FAC - Equally in wetland and non-wetland EPPC(II) - Category 2 Invasive Transect 10

Transect 10 Transect #11 Percent Transect Coverage Scientific Name Common Name % Native Status Wetland Status - DEP Canopy Tabebuia aurea Caribbean trumpet tree 2 Non-native N/A Quercus virginiana live oak 25 Native N/A Total Coverage - 27% Subcanopy Total Coverage - 0% Groundcover Digitaria serotina blanket crabgrass 7 Native FAC Cynodon dactylon Bermuda grass 15 Non-native N/A Cyperus croceus Baldwins flatsedge 5 Native FAC Sisyrinchium rosulatum annual blue-eyed grass 6 Non-native N/A Phyla nodiflora frog fruit 15 Native FAC Erigeron quercifolius oak leaf fleabane 4 Native FAC Desmodium incanum kaimi clover 3 Non-native N/A Hydrocotyle umbellata dollarweed 3 Native FACW Salvia misella river sage 2 Native N/A Salvia lyrata lyre leaf sage 2 Native N/A Geranium carolinianum Carolina cranesbill 5 Native N/A Emilia sonchifolia lilac tasselflower 1 Non-native N/A Bidens alba spanish needles 8 Native FAC Carya glabra pignut hickory 1 Native N/A Sabal palmetto sabal palm 2 Native FAC Spermacoce remota woodland false buttonweed 2 Native N/A Youngia japonica oriental false hawksbeard 4 Non-Native N/A Paspalum setaceum thin paspalum 8 Native FAC Dichondra carolinensis Carolina ponysfoot 3 Native FAC Total Coverage - 96%

Wetland Status: OBL - Occurs almost always in wetland FACW - Usually occurs in wetland EPPC(I) - Category 1 Invasive FAC - Equally in wetland and non-wetland EPPC(II) - Category 2 Invasive Transect 11

Transect 11 Transect #12 Percent Transect Coverage Scientific Name Common Name % Native Status Wetland Status - DEP Canopy Quercus virginiana live oak 95 Native N/A Sabal palmetto sabal palm 1 Native FAC Total Coverage - 96% Subcanopy Sabal palmetto sabal palm 1 Native FAC Total Coverage - 1% Groundcover Cyperus croceus Baldwins flatsedge 5 Native FAC Dichondra carolinensis Carolina ponysfoot 5 Native FAC Richardia brasiliensis mexican clover 3 Non-native N/A Urochloa maxima guineagrass 2 EPPC(II) N/A Urtica chamaedryoides dwarf stinging nettle 2 Native N/A Salvia misella river sage 10 Native N/A Dolichandra unguis-cati cats claw vine 20 EPPC(I) N/A Hydrocotyle umbellata dollarweed 3 Native FACW Phyllanthus tenellus Mascarene Island leaf flower 2 Non-native N/A Geranium carolinianum Carolina cranesbill 1 Native N/A Gamochaeta purpurea purple cudweed 1 Native N/A Sida rhombifolia Cuban jute 1 Native N/A Oxalis debilis pink woodsorrel 3 Non-native N/A Oplismenus setarius basket grass 1 Native N/A Total Coverage - 59%

Wetland Status: OBL - Occurs almost always in wetland FACW - Usually occurs in wetland EPPC(I) - Category 1 Invasive FAC - Equally in wetland and non-wetland EPPC(II) - Category 2 Invasive Transect 12

Transect 12 Appendix C Figures and Mapping Data Spring 2021 Legend

Genius Preserve

Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P, NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, (c) OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community Genius Preserve Orange County, FL

Figure 1 0.5 Location Map Miles ± Legend

Genius Preserve

± 390 Feet Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community Genius Preserve Orange County, FL Figure 2 2019 Aerial Photograph Legend

Genius Preserve

Genius Preserve Orange County, FL

Figure 3 390 USGS Topographic Map Feet ± Legend

GeniusPreserve Symbol, Name 7: Candler-Urban land complex, 0 to 5 percent slopespercent5to Candler-Urbancomplex,0 land 7: 8: Candler-Urban land complex, 5 to 12 percent slopespercent12toCandler-Urban complex,5 land 8: 29: Florahome–Urban slopepercent29: 5to complex,0land 55: Zolfo-Urban land complexland Zolfo-Urban 55: 29 99: Water 99:

99

99 8 7 99 99

99

99 99 99 55

99

99

Source: Esri, Maxar,GeoEye, Esri, Earthstar Source: CNES/AirbusGeographics, USDA,DS, USGS,AeroGRID,andIGN,theGIS UserCommunity Genius Preserve Orange County, FL

Figure 4 390 SSURGO Soils Map Feet ± Legend Genius Preserve Symbol: Name 1112: Mixed Hardwoods 1400: Mixed Hardwood-Coniferous 1832: Rural Structures 2241: Cypress/Hardwood Swamps 18212: Residential, Low Density 183321 183321: Citrus 1400

18212 2241

1832 1112 183321 2241

2241

Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community Genius Preserve Orange County, FL

Figure 5 390 Habitat & Land-Use Map Feet ± Legend

Genius Preserve transects

9 7 8

12

6

2 10 11

3

4

5

1

Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community Genius Preserve Orange County, FL

Figure 6 390 Transect Map Feet ± Works Cited

Elzinga, Caryl L., and Daniel W. Salzer. Measuring & monitoring plant populations. US Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, 1998. Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council Invasive Plant Lists, www.fleppc.org/list/list.htm. Florida Land Use, Cover and Forms Classification Systems for the Cooperative Land Cover Map. Florida Natural Areas Inventory, Dec. 2012. “Florida's Federally Listed Plant Species.” Florida's Federally Listed Plant Species / Florida Statewide Endangered and Threatened Plant Conservation Program / Forest Health / Our Forests / Forest & Wildfire / Home - Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Our-Forests/Forest-Health/Florida- Statewide-Endangered-and-Threatened-Plant-Conservation-Program/Florida-s-Federally- Listed-Plant-Species. Gilbert, Katherina M, et al. The Florida Wetlands Delineation Manual . The Florida Department of Environmental Protection, floridadep.gov/sites/default/files/delineationmanual.pdf. Huffman, Jean. “Vascular Flora of Myakka River State Park, Sarasota and Manatee Counties, Florida.” Castanea (1998): n. pag. Print. Hydric Soils of Florida Handbook: Fourth Edition . Florida Association of Environmental Soil Scientists in Cooperation With University of Florida - Soil and Water Science Department USDA - Natural Resources Conservation Service, Mar. 2007. Leighty, Ralph George. Soil Survey, Lake County, Florida. No. 5. US Department Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, 1960. Orzell, Steve L., and Edwin L. Bridges. n.d., Initial Botanical/Ecological Inventory of the Mopani Property (Project Orianne). Tiner, Ralph W. Wetland indicators: A guide to wetland formation, identification, delineation, classification, and mapping. Crc Press, 2016. Weakley, Alan S. Flora of The Southeastern United States – Florida. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Herbarium (NCU), North Carolina Botanical Garden, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2020.