A publication of the VIRGINIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY Conserving wild flowers and wild places Proposed bill threatens Division of Natural Heritage By the time this Bulletin reaches news as far as we are concerned! department's goal because of the you, it will probably be old news The proposal will also eliminate lack of funds. It has made several that Virginia's Secretary of Natural from the state budget $600,000 for unsuccessful efforts to obtain ad¬ Resources, The Honorable Becky the operation of the Division of ditional state funding. So what Norton Dunlop, has (or will have) Natural Heritage, leaving it to the happens when a $600,000 division submitted a bill to the General As¬ Department of Game and Inland is added to the department with¬ sembly that will, if passed, effec¬ Fisheries to provide the necessary out the funding? It seems obvi¬ tively dissolve the Virginia Depart- funding from its own sources (fees ous that the inevitable result will jj) ment of Conservation and Recre¬ or licenses). This part of the plan is be the demise of the Division of ation (DCR). ill-conceived, because it has been Natural Heritage. As we understand it, this will be only two years since Game and In¬ Furthermore, we understand accomplished by transferring some land Fisheries sought desperately that Game and Inland Fisheries parts of DCR, primarily Soil and to get general funds from the state plans to try minimizing the cost of Water Conservation, to the Depart¬ budget without success. absorbing Natural Heritage by re¬ ment of Agriculture and Consumer It has, for a number of years, locating individual members of Services. The Division of Natural appeared to the writer, as well as that staff to various regional op¬ Heritage and DCR’s 10,000-acre others, that Game and Inland Fish¬ erating centers across the state. Natural Area Preserves system will eries has been hampered by the lack Such an operating plan will de- be relocated to the Department of of funds. That department has been (See DCR, page 7) Game and Inland Fisheries. (There operating a non-game program and is also talk of state parks being an environmental education pro¬ Inside this issue privatized). This is devastating gram at a level much below the -The Division of Natural Heritage - °When is it a native? Created through the 1989 Natural Areas Preserve Act to: Page 3 —Inventory the rarest plants, animals and natural com¬ munities in the state °Seeking rare plants —Maintain a permanent data base and atlas of these oc¬ Page 4 currences —Protect and restore these occurrences and communi- °Canoeing past |) ties as essential elements of Virginia's natural heritage, thereby sustaining the health of our ecological systems wildflowers and preserving their intrinsic values. Page 6 J = Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society From the President A New Year's reminder of who we are...

I hope each of you has had a joyous holiday season. As we move into the new year; let us rededicate ourselves to the original program goals of the Virginia Native Plant Society and remind ourselves of who we are and why we are here. The Virginia Native Plant Society is an organization of amateurs and professionals who share an interest in Virginia's wild plants and habitats and a concern for their protection. Throughout the Commonwealth, the Society and its chapters seek to further the appreciation and conservation of this heritage. The VNPS supports a variety of programs which include:

-working for measures to protect endangered species and to preserve habitats and plant communities of special interest

-learning and teaching about wildflowers and their needs

-encouraging the appropriate use of nursery-propagated native wildflowers, shrubs and trees in public landscapes and private gardens

The work of the Society is carried out by volunteers, supported mainly by membership dues and contribu¬ tions. To further its goals, the VNPS cooperates in statewide and chapter programs with government agen¬ cies, developers and other groups with interests in common. Our mission is primarily one of education. It is very important for each member to be informed and aware ( of any proposed legislation at either the state or national level that will affect native habitat and flora. It is the responsibility of each of us to express our ideas and concerns to the appropriate legislators or governmental bodies. I would like to thank all of you who contributed to our year-end appeal. If you have not yet responded, please do so soon. We have a member who will make a substantial matching donation once your donations reach a certain level. Please help us meet this challenge. Finally, circle the weekend of September 20-22 on your calendar. The Shenandoah Chapter has already been busy planning our annual meeting which will be held in Staunton at the picturesque Ingleside Hotel. Your president, Frank Coffey

VNPS wildflower shirts VNPS WINTER WORKSHOP to be available soon When: Saturday, March 9; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Virginia Wildflower of the Year 1996 T-shirts will soon be available. Where: University of Richmond, Room CB-01 This year's shirt will feature the Topic: Native Plant Propagation with a review of large flowered trillium, Trillium previous workshop material and a presentation of grandiflorum, and should be avail¬ able for the same price as last new information year’s shirt. Contact: Effie Fox at 540-347-4090 (h) Chapters will soon receive 540-347-2788 (w) complete information and order forms. Each chapter will order ^ shirts directly from High Peak Watch for a special VNPS mailing with further which is the supplier. details and registration information. Page 2 ===z==z======i^=zzi=z=zi^=zi======^^ January 1996 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society When is a plant a native? ) Wintergreen's Spring Interest in the horticultural refine the definition of native to Wildflower Symposium use of native plants has grown only include plants that were offers variety of topics considerably in recent years. Evi¬ found to naturally occur in a par¬ dence for this includes numerous ticular region or climatic zone. For the 13th year in a row, Win- articles in gardening publications Perhaps less reasoned is the idea tergreen is hosting a Spring Wild¬ about natives and their uses, of linking the definition to a par¬ flower Symposium, presented by seminars organized by botanic ticular political region like a state. The Wintergreen Nature Foundation. gardens that feature principles of A Virginia native is a plant This weekend event, to be held May garden design using natives, and that was once part of the pre¬ 10-12 near Charlottesville in the the increasing availability of na¬ settlement flora. However, virtu¬ heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, tive plants or their seeds in cata¬ ally all Virginia native plants are is a treat for any wildflower enthu¬ logs and specialty nurseries. components of the floras of wider siast, whether a beginner or a botani¬ The question of "When is a geographic regions such as south¬ cal scholar. plant considered native?" is a eastern or northeastern North Instructors from such sources as question that has arisen on more America. And then, prior to the the Smithsonian Institution, U.S. than one occasion in discussions Civil War, a "Virginia" native in¬ National Arboretum, University of among the staff at the State Arbo¬ cluded plants from West Virginia! Virginia, and the Virginia Native retum of Virginia at Blandy Ex¬ In acquiring a Virginia native Plant Society offer a wide range of perimental Farm. At the grandest plant or a garden, one might find topics and events. By choosing from scale, a plant might be considered that the plant was grown from a variety of workshops, hikes, slide a North American native if it was seeds selected from sources origi¬ shows and projects, participants can present in the native flora when nating outside of Virginia. Will enjoy—and learn to identify-many of Europeans colonized the New the use of plants originating in the Blue Ridge wildflowers in the World. Red maple, Acer rubrum, is other parts of the natural range of field. Visitors can also become famil¬ an example. that species cause detrimental ef¬ iar with the ecology and propagation Plants that were introduced, fects in native populations? At needs, and even learn the edible and deliberately or accidently, coinci¬ present, it is unclear what the ef¬ medicinal values of these plants. dent with and following Euro¬ fects of hybridization of Virginia Some examples of topics in past pean settlement that are now plants with non-Virginia plants of years have been "Early Spring on the found to freely reproduce in dis¬ the same species might be for the Rockfaces," "A Meal from Nature," turbed and natural environments local populations in terms of har¬ "Native Plants: Medicinal and His¬ in North America are considered diness and pest resistance. These torical Perspectives," "Wildflower exotic or alien species. Japanese issues are being investigated in Propagation for Gardeners," "Sketch¬ honeysuckle, Lonicera japonicum, research being conducted at ing Wildflowers in the Mountain is an example of an exotic species. Blandy. Meadows," "Wildflower Ecology: In most cases, when cultivars, Terms such as "escaped" or "natu¬ The Root of the Matter," and "A i.e. named cultivated varieties of ralized" refer to their ability to Beginner's Look at Mosses of the native plants that are selected for grow and spread without cultiva¬ Blue Ridge." tion. a particular trait, are available The program for 1996 will in¬ When a gardener commits to they are unlikely to have been clude workshops with Kevin Adams the principle of designing a gar¬ derived from a Virginia source and Martha Casstevens, authors of den that includes native plants, is plant. Strictly speaking, the spe¬ the newly released book Wildflowers it sufficient to use any plant that cies is native to Virginia but the of the Southern Appalachians, begin¬ was found in North America cultivar is not native because it is ning and advanced wildflower pho¬ prior to European settlement? It not derived from a Virginia tography with Hal Horwitz and the would be unwise for a Virginia source. propagation of wildflowers with gardener to include many North In resolving where to choose Don Humphrey of Green Spring American species that are native species or cultivars for their gar¬ Park. Several extended hikes will be to the other climate zones, since dens, Virginia gardeners need to led to unique wildflower sites. There these plants have evolved under weigh the interest in having fine will also be shorter, gentle walks conditions that could not be eas¬ and beautiful gardens against ac¬ through the natural woodland wild¬ ily replicated, if at all, in a Vir¬ tive consideration of why they flower gardens. ginia garden. have chosen to include natives in For more information, write: The At a much finer scale than the first place. Wintergreen Nature Foundation, that of the continent, one might Chris Sacchi Botany chair P.O. Box 468, Wintergreen, VA 22958 or call 804-325-8172. January 1996 Page 3 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society Virginia's rarest plants excite Natural Heritage botanists

Editor's note:}. Christopher Ludwig is a staff piedmont, and Hexalectris spicata, small whorled pogonia, Isotria biologist for Virginia's Department of Conser¬ crested coralroot. Quite atypically medeoloides. A number of VNPS mem¬ vation and Recreation's Division of Natural however, amidst the interesting plants bers provided us with exciting news Heritage. Ludwig was the featured speaker at and striking natural community, no ex¬ on the discovery of additional sites for VNPS's annual meeting in September. His tremely state rare plants could be this Federally-listed species. There are talk, "Exciting Botanical Finds in Virginia," found. Or so we thought... now more than 20 known extant Vir¬ is offered here in condensed form. Around midday, the delicate pink ginia populations. One of the primary functions of flowers of fameflower unfolded and (See Habitat, page 5) the Division of Natural Heritage is to brightened the slopes. Festooning over inventory Virginia's rare species and many outcrops, it put on a beautiful significant natural communities. As a display. We assumed this to be our staff botanist within the division, I am well-known fameflower, Talinum responsible for the inventory of our teretifolium. Before leaving, we col¬ flora and it is my job to gather infor¬ lected a specimen and departed, mation on its composition and status. happy to have seen such a beautiful I accomplish this by conducting field natural community, but a little disap¬ work, working with our two talented pointed not to have found any rare field botanists, Allen Belden and species. Nancy Van Alstine, and gathering in¬ If we had known more about formation from botanists and wild- fameflowers, we might have been less flower enthusiasts outside of our de¬ disappointed. Two years later, while partment. Many members of the Vir¬ verifying the identification of some of ginia Native Plant Society provide us our program specimens, I came upon with helpful information on the sta¬ the fameflower we had collected. The tus of our flora and some of its rarest number of stamens and the long pistil components. very clearly indicated that it did not Over the last few years, exciting represent Talinum teretifolium. I still do botanical finds in Virginia have oc¬ not know what name to assign to this curred fast and furiously. Some of the taxon. It is more closely related to a most interesting discoveries have southern species called Talinum come, quite literally, out of our own mengesii, but doesn't really match that back yards. Perhaps the biggest dis¬ species either. covery which can be made is to find a In 1993, the staff botanist for the species new to science; a group of re- North Carolina Natural Heritage Pro¬ productiveiy-isolated organisms gram, noted that they also had the which has never been named or rec¬ same perplexing fameflowers in the ognized as a species, like Trifolium North Carolina piedmont. Stamen calcaricum, running glade clover. counts and pistil length were similar Virginia's most recent species new to and the habitat nearly matched the Vir¬ science was named by Leo Collins and ginia site. It now appeared that there Tom Wieboldt in the journal Castanea were two locations for this new taxon. in 1992. It may not be the last new spe¬ After an examination of geologic maps cies to come out of Virginia. and aerial photographs, all magne¬ On September 7,1991, our depart¬ sium-rich outcrops in Franklin County ment visited Bald Knob in Franklin were visited in the summer of 1994 and County. This piedmont hill is a rocky three additional fameflower sites were outcrop of metabasalt which rises found bringing the total global popu¬ above the town of Rocky Mount. The lations for this mysterious, and as yet natural community is beautiful, there unnamed, fameflower to five. are few weedy species and little sign It certainly does not require a new of human disturbance. Interesting spe¬ species to make for a rewarding and cies abound, including. Paronychia significant field day. It can be as simple argyrocoma, silverling, a mountain as finding another site for a rare spe¬ plant which rarely reaches into the cies, especially when the species is the

of Natural Heritage Department of Conservation an Recreation

Page 4 January 1996 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society Habitat surveys often the key to new finds (Continued from page 4) However, I am glad to report that Many new Virginia populations have been discovered for another spe¬ not all of Fernald's species are still missing. In the last few years, a num¬ cies of federal concern, the shale bar¬ ber of his most interesting and attrac¬ ren rockcress, Arabis serotina. This plant grows primarily on Devonian tive species have been relocated. The southern red lily, Lilium catesbii, was shale outcrops of the ridge and valley province. In 1994, our division initi¬ found in a Southampton County powerline right-of-way. Prior to this, ated a systematic inventory of shale the species had not been found in Vir¬ barrens and their rare species on the ginia since Femald found it in 1943. George Washington and Jefferson Na¬ tional Forests. Thus far, 16 new occur¬ During Fernald's visits, fires were probably still fairly frequent and open- rences have been found, increasing the Sclerolepsis canopy boggy wetlands were main¬ known world locations to above 50. uniflora tained. Now, only powerline areas Habitat surveys which key on a Bog buttons which are periodically mowed can rock type often produce exciting re¬ Illustration by support many of Fernald's lost bog sults. A systematic habitat survey for Barbara Stewart species. Because of this, the division barrens and woodlands over Elbrook is working with Virginia Power on a Dolomite in Rockbridge, Botetourt, systematic survey of powerline right- Roanoke and Montgomery Counties of-ways in southeastern Virginia. Our turned up some of our most significant Mutton Hunk Branch. Although the hope is to relocate more of Fernald's natural areas. These habitats yielded area looks like a typical brackish rarities in the open powerline corri¬ over 15 sites for Virginia's only native marsh, we found Eriocaulon dors. For instance, Cliestes divaricata, purple coneflower, Echinacea laevigata, decangulare, the ten-angled pipewort, the spreading pogonia, is a very rare smooth coneflower. more typical of bogs and pocosins. species in the state found in only three One of the great joys of botaniz¬ However, next to the pipewort was power line wetlands. ing is found in the discovery of the marsh rattlesnake-master, Eryngium Now the reader might be think¬ unknown. Sometimes you explore a aquaticum, typical of fresh to brackish ing that this is all very interesting, but site where nothing new is found (the marshes. so what? I can tell you that many con¬ figurative strikeout), but at other times Further investigation revealed that servation organizations. Natural Heri¬ an area is teeming with rare species this wetland is maintained when up¬ tage and the Virginia Native Plant So¬ waiting to be discovered (the home land groundwater seepage springs ciety among them, take the knowledge run). In April 1994,1 visited Dry Creek, forth at the edge of the tidal marsh cre¬ we have gained, our exciting botani¬ in Lee County where aerial photo¬ ating a bog, or fen-like wetland at sea cal discoveries, and incorporate them graphs indicated potentially signifi¬ level. Seven rare plants were recorded into conservation action. cant limestone woodlands and glades. here including a species of rush, Juncus Buffalo Mountain in Floyd When all was said and done, nine rare pelocarpus. As we searched other sea- County is one such example. This plants, four significant natural com¬ level fens, we found many other inter¬ mountain encompasses one of our munity types and a Midwestern spe¬ esting species, including Sclerolepis most outstanding natural areas and cies of mallow new to Virginia were uniflora, bog buttons, and beakrush, rare plant concentrations. The Divi¬ all found. Rhynchospora oligantha. Currently less sion of Natural Heritage is working A portion of our division's work than eight acres of this wetland type very steadily in concert with The Na¬ is also directed toward U.S. Depart¬ are known. ture Conservancy to protect this area ment of Defense facilities which are Some of the home-run days in and we expect the entire mountain to mandated to protect federally listed botanizing involve finding plants become a part of our Natural Areas species on their lands. In 1993, thought to have disappeared from the Preserve system in the not-so-distant Michaux's sumac, Rhus michauzxi, a Commonwealth. Merritt Lyndon future. New, significant botanical federally-endangered species, was Femald was a famous Harvard bota¬ finds on National Forest land often found at Fort Pickett in the southern nist and author of Gray's Manual of lead to conservation action. piedmont. By keying in on a particu¬ Botany, 8th edition. From 1933 to 1945, There is a long list of conservation lar habitat type, our survey recorded Femald focused much of his legend¬ actions driven by the finds of at least 30,000 culms of the shrub over ary botanical talent on deciphering the Virginia's botanical community. Our 10,000 acres, more plants than are relatively little-known flora of south¬ discoveries are directly steering much known in all of the populations in the eastern Virginia. of the conservation of biodiversity in rest of the world put together! During his travels, he stumbled Virginia. There is much left to do and Examining specific habitats can across many species which have not no contribution is too small, so get out produce interesting botanical finds, been seen in Virginia since that time. and enjoy our rich botanical heritage. like those in the sea-level fens. While For example, Calapogon pallidus, the Expect a few rainy days in your investigating the tidal wetlands in pale grass pink, is a beautiful south¬ botanizing adventures, but remember Accomack County, several interesting ern orchid which used to make its most that you just might be the next one to vegetation types were found along northern home near Franklin. hit a home run. January 1996 . .-.— . - - . — Page 5 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society North Landing River Canoeing offers unique way to s i native plants

On a recent canoe outing along cosin" is an Algonquin word that One of the greatest thrills a North Landing River tributary, I means "swamp on a hill." These comes upon finding that rare or was reminded of how fortunate we mounds of peat support a great di¬ endangered plant species. I con¬ are to have such a unique waterway versity of plants and form a dense sider them to be treasures worthy flowing through the city of Virginia understory of shrubs and vines. of great respect and have had the Beach. Paddling these quiet, pris¬ One of my favorite times for pleasure of encountering several tine waters makes the busy city canoeing these waterways is in the of them at different times, always seem far away. Surrounding us spring and summer. Beginning in by chance. The elongated lobelia, were the freshwater tidal marshes, March and continuing through the Lobelia elongata, is one of the rare forested swamps, and pocosins that summer and into the fall, there is plants that grows in the marshes always something blooming. In and produces bright blue flowers the forested swamps, serviceberry, at the end of the summer. Also rare Amelanchier canadensis, opens up and blooming in late summer is the season by displaying patches the obedient plant, Physostegia of white among the trees before the leptophylla. The common name re¬ leaves have developed. These are fers to the flowers which, when quickly followed by the flowering bent, tend to stay in that position shrubs of members of the Heath for a while. Other rare plants in¬ family, Ericaceae, including the clude the spreading pogonia, highbush blueberry, Vaccinium Cleistes divaricata; Elliot's aster, As¬ corymbosum, and fetterbush, ter elliottii; and the red milkweed, characterize the North Landing Leucothoe axillaris. But the real treat Asclepias lanceolata. River ecosystem and which also comes in May when the large blue The North Landing River has make it unique. flag. Iris versicolor, several species been designated as a state scenic The fluctuating water levels are of sundrops, Oenothera spy., and waterway and provides excellent the result of wind tides rather than the swamp rose, Rosa palustris, be¬ canoeing opportunities. Several lunar tides and support a large gin to bloom. Every bend in the launch sites can be accessed via number of plant species, many river offers an excellent photo op¬ Blackwater and Pungo Ferry which are found nowhere else in portunity with bluish-purple, yel¬ Roads. The Department of Conser¬ the Commonwealth of Virginia. The low and pink flowers being dis¬ vation and Recreation's Division North Landing River is a part of the played. As the season advances, of Natural Heritage and The Na¬ Intracoastal Waterway and is where the brilliant red flowers of cardi¬ ture Conservancy are working to¬ north meets south. Providing a cor¬ nal flower. Lobelia cardinalis, fur¬ gether to protect this unique eco¬ ridor to the south, it allows south¬ ther enhance the swamp's beauty . system by acquiring land along ern species of plants to reach their The freshwater marshes reach this waterway and constructing an northernmost limits along these their peak flowering period during access road that is scheduled to waterways. Sawgrass, Cladium the summer months. This is when open this spring. jamaicense, is a southern plant that the pink and white flowers of the If you're headed for Virginia is normally associated with the mallows. Hibiscus moscheutos and Beach this year, don't just stop at Florida Everglades, and yet com¬ Kosteletzkya virginica, begin to the beach. Bring some sort of non- munities of it can be found along bloom. Patches of pickerelweed, mechanized watercraft and head the North Landing River. Pontederia cordata, grow along the south for the waterways that flow A number of plants that are edges of the marsh and produce into the North Landing River. It's considered rare in the state are purple flower spikes all summer an experience you don't want to found in the pocosin community, and into the fall. Several species of miss. one of the rarest communities in Sagittaria, often referred to as duck Vickie Shufer is a VNPS member and Virginia. Pocosins are mounds of potatoes, also grow here. The the editor of The Wild Foods Forum. peat that have formed from decay¬ name refers to their use as food by She may be reached at P.O. Box 61413, ing plant material and other debris the ducks who come here during Virginia Beach, VA 23466-1413. 804-421- that have built up over time. "Po- the winter months. 3929.

Page 6 January 1996 .. .= Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society • DCR could be dissolved- (Continued from page 1) with members of the game and the Division of Natural Heritage's stroy much of the effectiveness of non-game program and have devel¬ work would suggest combining it Natural Heritage by disrupting the oped considerable admiration for with that department. interaction of its centrally located their work in these fields. But this Two in-depth studies of this 28-member staff of scientists and does not qualify them to plan or proposal have previously been their assistants. direct the work of Natural Heri¬ made. A study made in 1993 by the This part of the plan alone tage, a very different type of work. Virginia Department of Planning demonstrates convincingly either The work of the Natural Heri¬ and Budget stated: "it is critical the naivete of the planners, both in tage program is a massive program Natural Heritage remain in DCR." the Secretary's office and in the De¬ being carried out by all 50 of our It went on to say "therefore, trans¬ partment of Game and Inland Fish¬ states and 13 Latin American coun¬ fer of similar threatened and en¬ eries, or the outright intention of tries. It is essential work if we are dangered species protection pro¬ totally eliminating the Division of to prevent the loss of potentially in¬ grams to DCR is the preferred op¬ Natural Heritage. It is a political valuable resources. This can best be tion." In 1994, Governor George plan—NOT a plan to achieve more illustrated by the fact that 25 per¬ Allen's Blue Ribbon Strike Force fi¬ effective management of our natu¬ cent of modern prescription drugs nal draft report recommended that ral resources. The plan cannot suc¬ contain one or more compounds "The State's programs and activities ceed as a management plan. As has now or once derived from plants. relative to threatened and endan¬ already been so unfortunately Furthermore, fewer than 10 percent gered species of fauna and flora demonstrated in a number of states of the compounds gotten from should be consolidated in one where Natural Heritage was or is plants can be synthesized economi¬ agency...It is suggested that these organized under their respective cally. activities be consolidated into the game departments. To be effective, the work of the Department of Conservation and Game personnel are trained for Division of Natural Heritage re¬ Recreation." Furthermore, that entirely different work and have quires highly skilled botanists, zo¬ same Blue Ribbon Strike Force neither the professional training ologists and ecologists working as (Governor's Commission on Gov¬ nor the experience required for the multidisciplinary teams. This ex¬ ernment Reform) recommended work of the Division of Natural plains why the division was estab¬ that Game and Inland Fisheries Heritage. We say this while still lished in the first place as an entity should continue to be primarily admiring the work that our Depart¬ separate from Game and Inland user-funded and that its functions ment of Game and Inland Fisher¬ Fisheries. Only someone with a should be limited to those consis- ies does. We have worked both poor knowledge of the essence of (See Natural Heritage, page 8)

i-1 The Bulletin (ISSN 1085-9632) See the address label for your membership's expiration date. is published five times a year VNPS Membership/Renewal Form (Jan., March, May, Aug., Nov.) by Name(s) Virginia Native Plant Society Address ft /V** * P.O. Box 844, Annandale, VA City State Zip 22003 (703) 368-9803 _Individual $15 _Family $25 _Student $10 Frank Coffey, President _Patron $50 _Sustaining $100 _Life $400 Nancy Sorrells, Editor Associate (group) $40; delegate Barbara Stewart, Artist To give a gift membership or join additional chapters: Enclose dues, name, address, and j Original material contained in the chapter. (Non-voting memberships in any other than your primary chapter are $5). Bulletin may be reprinted, provided I wish to make an additional contribution to_VNPS_Chapter | credit is given to the author, if named. Readers are invited to send in the amount of_$10_$25_$50_$100_$_ letters, news items, or original ar¬ _Check here if you do not wish your name _Check here if you do not wish J ticles for the editor's consideration. to be exchanged with similar organizations. to be listed in a chapter directory. | Items should be typed. If possible, they can also be sent on a 3.5 " disk Make check payable to VNPS and mail to: to the Editor at Rt. 2, Box 726, Green¬ VNPS Membership Chair, 3924 Cobbler Mtn. Rd., Delaplane, VA 22025 ville, VA 24440. Next issue deadline is Feb. 10. i_i January 1996 Page 7 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society •Natural Heritage- ENPA promotes native (Continued from page 7) of our Commonwealth are seri¬ plant conservation tent with its current mission state¬ ously threatened with the loss of ir¬ The Eastern Native Plant Alliance I ment. As though validating those replaceable natural resources. is an association of organizations two studies, the Virginia Division We recognize that this article is which promote and demonstrate na¬ tive plant conservation in the eastern of Natural Heritage was selected a very "broad brush" description of United States and southeastern as the "Outstanding Natural Heri¬ the problem before us. There are Canada. Its purpose is to provide a many important details omitted tage Program" in the western network for exchanging ideas and de¬ hemisphere in 1994. It continues to simply for the lack of space; but fining issues, and to facilitate coopera¬ be recognized as a model for the hopefully what you have read will tive action. Membership is open to or¬ International Natural Heritage make you want to do something ganizations and individuals commit¬ Network. about the problem. What can you ted to serving as liaisons. The decision to form such an as¬ As you can see, this proposal do? By all means contact your del¬ sociation in 1988 grew out of shared has been twice studied in the last egate and state senator in the Gen¬ concern for the conservation of native eral Assembly. The Assembly is two years, so Secretary Dunlop's plants, intensified by mounting pub¬ bill is not a new idea. It is reap¬ where the question will be decided lic interest in their landscape use. pearing as the result of some so get as many people as possible The ENPA network fosters com¬ strong lobbying by interests close to contact their representatives. munication and interaction among di¬ to the Department of Game and Numbers count. We are not often verse organizations, helping each to Inland Fisheries. The Virginia called on to be activists and partici¬ strengthen and refresh its own ap¬ proach to plant conservation. Through Wildlife Federation has been push¬ pate in something seemingly so far its constituents, ENPA furthers public ing the change and the Farm Bu¬ removed from the benign enjoy¬ education concerning native plants reau has voted to support it, al¬ ment of our native wild flowers; and their conservation. though it is not clear to this writer but this threat behooves us to pro¬ ENPA also seeks to be a catalyst whether the Farm Bureau repre¬ tect the natural resources involved for action by constituents and encour¬ sentatives know at this time all by becoming activists pro tem. We ages increased understanding of indig¬ that the vote entails. The Secretary, hope you will take part in this ef¬ enous species and their ecological re¬ by submitting her bill, is ignoring fort as soon as you receive your lationships; protection of the integrity { and genetic diversity of native plant the recommendations resulting Bulletin. communities; preservation of existing from both of the above studies as Ted Scott natural areas; and responsible, sustain¬ well as the highest level of profes¬ Conservation Chair able uses of native plants. sional respect earned by our Natu¬ For information: Eastern Native ral Heritage division. The citizens Plant Alliance, PO. Box 147, Hillsboro, MD 21641 or call 410-634-2847.

Non-Profit Organization library U.S. Postage PAID Virginia Native Plant Society JAN 3 0 1996 PERMIT NO. 347 Springfield, VA P.O. Box 844 Annandale, VA 22003 „ NEW YORK botanical garden

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Printed on recycled paper A publication of the VIRGINIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY Conserving wild flowers and wild places VNPS co-sponsoring water and wetlands conference The focus is on fringe tree The Virginia Native Plant Society Our beautiful Virginia native is among 16 conservation organiza¬ plants are beginning to stir a bit un¬ tions co-sponsoring Virginia's Clean der the snow which blankets them. Water and Wetlands Conference to be Spring is on the way and we will all held in Richmond on Saturday, March eagerly be searching for our first 30 at Virginia Commonwealth Uni¬ blooms. To help members focus versity's Academic Building. upon our 1997 Virginia Wildflower Participants in the day-long con¬ of the Year, VNPS has established the ference will learn more about the Virginia Wildflower of the Year Clean Water Act and the Virginia re¬ Photo Contest. sources it protects and enhances. In¬ The subject is the VNPS 1997 formational sessions include legisla¬ Wildflower of the Year, fringe tree tion, effective communication with (Chionanthus virginicus). There are media and law makers, and net¬ three categories in which photos Fringe tree, Chionanthus virginicus working with other Virginia conser¬ taken this year may be submitted: 1. Illustration by Nicky Staunton vationists. Location to be specified on the sub¬ The contest begins with this an¬ By any measure, the Clean Wa¬ mitted photograph as either in the nouncement and all entries must be ter Act is one of the most successful wild (natural habitat) or in the gar¬ postmarked by July 31, 1996. federal programs ever, yet in Rich¬ den (horticultural habitat); 2. Entire The contest is for VNPS members mond and Washington, D.C. the plant; and 3. Floral portrait. The and will be judged by carefully se¬ principles of the act are under attack. scope of this year's contest is nar¬ lected photographers who are ori¬ This workshop will make the row, but may be widen in both sub¬ ented toward botanical photography. link between the law and the re¬ ject and categories next year if re¬ There will be prizes and recognition sources, and will give participants sponse to this year's competition (See Conference, page 10) warrants change. (See Contest, page 2) Tips for photographing fringe tree and other natives as well A member of the Olive family, meaning flower). and Fred Swope, Manual of the Trees fringe tree is a tall shrub or short Fringe tree blooms in April and of North America by Charles tree which grows in rich, moist soil May near the North Carolina border Sprague Sargent, Flora of West Vir¬ along steams or dry woods or rock and May through June in the north¬ ginia by P.D. Strasbaugh and Earl outcrops. It has been found in all ern and mountainous areas of Vir¬ Core, and Manual of the Vascular but 12 counties of Virginia from the ginia. Fruit ripens July through Sep¬ Flora of the Carolinas by Albert shore to the mountains. Sometimes tember. It is a native often used for Radford, Harry Ahles and C. called "Old Man's beard," another landscaping. Ritchie Bell. common name, snowflower, is the Additional information on the There are a few points for be¬ derivation from the botanical name fringe tree can be found in Trees and ginners who wish to photograph (chion meaning snow and anthos Shrubs of Virginia by Oscar Gupton (See Tips, page 2) Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society From the President Wildflower of the Year We have had enough winter to last for quite some time. After enduring quilt to be offered Blizzard '96, several other snows and severe cold, it is time to say farewell to our stark winter landscape and welcome a profusion of spring ephemerals. at Annual Meeting Let's hope that the large amount of moisture recently received will contrib¬ Plans for the 1996 Virginia Na¬ ute to record floral beauty this spring. tive Plant Society Annual Meeting While the season and weather have not favored wildflowering, the work are well under way. Under the care of the Society has moved on. Our Conservation Chair, Ted Scott, has been of the Shenandoah Chapter, the very busy participating in conferences and spreading the message about the planning committee is chaired by Betty Rosson, who promises all sorts dangers of invasive alien plants. of pleasant surprises for attendees. Thanks to Education Chair Effie Fox, and Horticulture Chair Nancy One exciting new item on the Arrington, our Winter Workshop should be a big success. A special thanks agenda is a raffle of a quilted wall to Tim Williams and Ted Scott for agreeing to make special presentations hanging featuring past, present and and to Dr. John Hayden and the University of Richmond for facilities and future VNPS wildflowers of the arrangements. year. This raffle will replace the live VNPS will cosponsor a Virginia Clean Water and Wetlands Conference auction featured at meetings in pre¬ with the National Wildlife Federation on March 30. This conference will be vious years. The quilted wall hang¬ held at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond. VNPS will be an ing measures 38 inches square. affiliate for the Native Plants in the Landscape conference being held at Handcrafted by a highly respected Shenandoah Valley quilter, Lorene Millersville University in Millersville, Pennsylvania June 13-15. The goal Edmunds, the quilt consists of nine of this year's conference is to enhance the knowledge, cultivation and use of squares, each containing a featured native plants with intent to provide insight into how the use of natives will VNPS Wildflower of the Year. The nurture our environment. The conference will focus mainly on the Mid-At¬ center square will contain our 1997 lantic and Northeast regions of the United States. selection, fringe tree, Chionanthus 1 hope all members of the Society will participate in the many chapter virginicus. sponsored wildflower walks and events scheduled during the '96 season. Make Tickets for the quilt raffle will be a special effort to see our Virginia Wildflower of the Year, Trillium made available to all chapters. The grandiflorum, in all of its splendor! expected price is $5 for a block of Your President, Frank Coffey six. It is hoped that all the chapters will get behind this new fundraiser and support it. A photograph of the •Tips other excellent sources of general pho¬ hanging will be made available to tographic information available. each chapter as soon as it has been (Continued from page 1) When photographing native native plants. Always study your sub¬ completed. plants, keep a few conservation guide¬ ject to select the plant's best perspec¬ Landscape conference lines in mind as well. Never destroy tive. Choose the best time of day for the plant or any part of it in the pro¬ "Native Plants in the Landscape" the most effective lighting on the sub¬ is the theme for a June 13-15 confer¬ cess of photography. Do not destroy ject. Noon sunlight is harsh and not ence in Millersville, Pa. The Virginia or harm neighboring vegetation in an as effective as morning or evening Native Plant Society is a conference effort to create your best photo¬ light. Compose your photo to exclude affiliate. Sessions focus on the Mid-At¬ graph—pruning or rearranging the visual clutter. Use a tripod and try to lantic and Northeast regions in order plant or neighboring plants in the wild capture the "spirit" of the plant to re¬ to enhance the knowledge, cultivation is not acceptable. Be a plant sensitive flect fragility or toughness. and use of native plants in our shutterbug and have fun, but watch Those who want to learn more environment.The conference is aimed where you put your feet! about flower photography might toward amateur and professional gar¬ check out books by John Shaw and •Contest - deners as well as educators, and land¬ Craig and Nadine Blacklock. Virginia (Continued from page 1) scape designers. Wildlife Magazine, published by the for competitors. Photography con¬ Conference registration is $140/ Virginia Department of Game and In¬ test committee members are Pat double occupancy or $150/single and includes food and lodging at land Fisheries, publishes a column by Baldwin, Reba Greer and Nicky Staunton. Millersville University. For informa¬ author-photographer Lynda A complete copy of the rules can tion, contact: Continuing Education, Richardson. Another magazine with be obtained by writing: VNPS Photo P.O. Box 1002, Millersville University, excellent instructional articles is Out¬ Contest, P.O. Box 844, Annandale, VA Millersville, PA 17551-0302 or call 717- door Photography. There are also many 22033 or by calling 703-368-9803. 872-3030 or fax 717-871-2022. Page 2 March 1996 .-= Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society . Spring offers opportunity for wild food feast

Every spring when the lawn starts flavor to dishes. Most members of the thickener in soups or sauces. turning green and the leaf buds start mustard family (Brassicaceae) have ei¬ Redbuds (Cercis canadensis) are swelling, I head for the outdoors with ther yellow or white flowers and are among my favorite spring flowering my tote bag in hand and thoughts of spicy, sometimes peppery, in taste. trees. The fuchsia-colored flowers are food plants in my mind. I don't have Flowers of some trees and shrubs not only beautiful to look at but they to go far. Foraging opportunities are are also edible. Sassafras (Sassafras taste good too. They can add a color¬ abundant, and the images of gourmet albidum) is one of the earliest flower¬ ful garnish to lots of dishes. The young dishes spring to my mind. The plants ing shrubs and has yellow edible pods that develop afterward are also I am looking for are mostly native. flowers that appear before the leaves. edible and can be stir-fried like snow Some have escaped from cultivation The taste is completely different from peas. and have become naturalized. Many the root beer flavor of the roots and Many people grow roses because of the plants growing wild around us can be added to cooked vegetables or of fragrant flowers. There are several are edible, and when prepared prop¬ rice dishes. As the young leaves de¬ native species in Virginia, all of which erly, can turn an ordinary meal into a velop they can be picked and used as are edible. The flower petals can be re¬ gourmet feast. moved and Many of made into the spring drinks, jelly or wildflowers even candied. that we look so A plant forward to see¬ that is disliked ing at the end by many be¬ of the winter cause of its can be used to sharp thorns make a color¬ Sassafras flowers and aggressive (Sassafras albidum) ful, edible dish. growth is the I like to collect greenbrier as many differ¬ (Smilax spp.). ent colors as I but in the can find and spring, when then arrange the young tips them on top of are just coming a cake or pie. Illustrations out, I'm glad to The flowers of by have greenbri- all violets ers around. Elder flowers Vickie Shufer (Viola spp.) are (Sambucus canadensis) The young edible, but the tips, including tastiest one is stem and ten¬ the field pansy drils, can be (V. kitaibeliana), broken off and especially eaten raw or when the top added to sal¬ leaves are in¬ ads. As the cluded. The plant matures, taste is similar the leaves and to wintergreen, stems become adding flavor tough and less and color. sweet. Contrast¬ Thistles ing with the (Cirsium spp) violets are the also have a bad bright yellow reputation be¬ flowers of the cause of their wood sorrel long, sharp (Oxalis spp.). thorns. But They add a tart Yellow Thistle Narrow-leaved Cattail (Cirsium horridulum) (Typha angustifolia) (See Food, pg. 9) March 1996 = - Page 3 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society For Wildflower Gardeners Natives add cheer to winter gardens Diminutive evergreen natives, three-inch oval leathery evergreen quered Spider, I ordered three hardly noticed in May and June, leaves. Bright red berries add plants from a Georgia nursery. The are a welcome sight in the garden color through winter. All three of name describes shiny leaves simi¬ during January and February. I these species flower during the lar to those of the species but more spotted three familiar species on a summer. likely to be evergreen. In just three recent walk (between snow Not normally considered ev¬ years my plants have spread by storms!) through my woodland ergreen and grown primarily for long runners into an impressive garden. its spring flowers in shades of patch. Spotted wintergreen (Chima- white, pink and lavender, creep¬ In addition to these native phila maculata) grows naturally in ing phlox (Phlox stolonifera) has groundcovers in the shade garden, my woods and I treasure it wher¬ ground-hugging foliage that stays I like to look for evergreen rosettes ever it appears. It's about six attractive through most winters. It of natives in other parts of the gar¬ inches tall with narrow, deeply grows naturally only in Virginia's den. Clumps of bright green leaves toothed two- to three-inch long western mountainous counties with purple undersides of golden leaves that have a light gray-green while the three evergreen species ragwort (Senecio aureus) brighten pattern along the mid-rib. are native throughout the state. the border all winter. Cardinal Though it looks fragile, par- Although it's native to moist flower (Lobelia cardinalis) and tridgeberry (Mitchella repens) is a woods only in the Carolinas, white beardtongue (Penstemon tough little creeper that makes a oconee bells (Shortia galacifolia) is digitalis), both growing in damp ar¬ good groundcover in shady gar¬ a wonderful groundcover for eas, have good foliage through the dens. Tiny, leathery half-inch cooler areas in Virginia. Shiny, winter. A mulch of finely chopped leaves actually shine in the weak rounded, evergreen leaves, only leaves can be tucked around these winter sun. Red berries persisting about an inch-and-a-half across, perennials, but they may be smoth¬ through winter add to this cheer¬ turn shades of red and bronze in ered if covered by a thick layer of ful picture. the fall. Plants spread very slowly leaves. Named for the fragrance of its into good sized clumps over the These and other natives that leaves and berries, wintergreen years. Beautiful, fringed, pinkish- are attractive through the winter (Gaultheria procumbens) is also a white flowers appear in very early can be planted near frequently delightful groundcover for the spring. used paths or walks where they shade garden. Unlike partridge- Another plant that is growing will be seen often. Or plant them berry, which spreads by above¬ well in my northern Virginia gar¬ throughout the garden so you will ground runners, this species den is a selection of green and be lured outside for long walks to spreads by underground stems, gold (Chrysogonum virginianum). discover bits of winter cheer. Per¬ sending up clusters of two- to Intrigued by the named 'Eco Lac¬ haps the best plan is to group them r 1 into a "winter garden" that can be FREE REGISTRATION FOR TWO ($150 VALUE) enjoyed from the warm side of a (Coupon for drawing) window. The Spring Wildflower Symposium Nancy Arrington sponsored by Horticulture Chair The Wintergreen Nature Foundation Wintergreen symposium May 10-12, 1996 The Spring Wildflower Sympo¬ sium presented by The Wintergreen Name Nature Foundation continues its tra¬ Address dition of providing something for ev¬ ery wildflower enthusiast from begin¬ Phone Number ner to botany scholar. The instructors are the finest experts available in their Mail coupon with a $5 donation to: Virginia Native Plant Society fields and provide participants with P.O. Box 844, Dept. W a wealth of information on native Annandale, VA 22003 flora. The winner will receive registration for two to The Spring Wildflower Sym¬ This year's symposium will be posium. All entries must be postmarked by April 15 and a $5 donation must held May 10-12. For more informa¬ be included for each entry. Enter as many times as you like. The winner will tion, call Rosalind Rowe at 804-325- Lbe contacted by phone. This coupon may be photocopied. 8172 or Eva Lowe at 804-325-8169. Page 4 . =====^= March 1996 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society Virginia Wildflower Celebration 1996 The nine chapters of the Virginia Native Plant Society celebrate the rich diversity of the native flora of the Commonwealth each year in April and May For the next two months, 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 telephone numbers provided to obtain further informa¬ tion. Propagated plants will be available at chapter plant sales. The 1996 Virginia Wildflower of the Year, large-flowered trillium, will enhance the celebration this year with its striking spring displays. Trillium grandiflorum leaves an indelible impression on all who are fortunate to encounter this plant in its native environment. It most commonly grows in wooded sites with rich moist soils in relatively undisturbed woods and coves. = Calendar of Events = March 18, Monday. 7:30 p.m. Acadia. Frank Coffey (Blue Ridge) April 20, Saturday. 10 a.m. Buf¬ Designing Wildlife Habitats by 804-332-5757. falo Creek field trip, Evington. Gina Yurkonis. Bethel Lutheran April 6, Saturday. 1 p.m. Dry VNPS Registry site. Frank Coffey Church in Manassas. Helen Walter Run Branch field trip in Catawba. (Blue Ridge) 804-332-5757. (Prince Wiliam) 703-754-8806. Bring footwear for wet areas. Supper April 21, Sunday. 10 a.m.-12:30 March 23, Saturday. 10 a.m. Wood¬ at local restaurant after trip. Frank p.m. Great Falls wildflower walk. pecker Ridge Nature Center work day Coffey (Blue Ridge) 804-332-5757. Marion Lobstein (Prince William) and field trip. Troutville. Frank Coffey April 13, Saturday. 10 a.m. Bota¬ 703-536-7150. (Blue Ridge) 804-332-5757. nizing Green Hill Park in Salem. Frank April 21, Sunday. 2:30-4:30 p.m. March 24, Sunday. 3 p.m. Coffey (Blue Ridge) 804-332-5757. Balls Bluff wildflower walk. Marion Flights of Fancy with Joyce Russell. April 14, Sunday. 10 a.m. Pied¬ Lobstein (Prince William) 703-536- Slide presentation on butterfly gar¬ mont Chapter field trip to Margie 7150. dens. Lee Moomaw (South Hamp¬ ) White's in Sperryville, April 21, Sunday. 1 p.m. Bull ton Roads) 804-422-6470. April 14, Sunday, 2 p.m. Run/Fairfax Regional Park Bluebell March 25, Monday. 7 p.m. Randolph-Macon Woman's College Walk. (Potowmack and Prince Will¬ Invasive Plant lecture by Ted Scott. Botanic Garden Open House and iam Chapters assisting) Nicky Center in the Square, Roanoke. Frank walk along Alpine Trail in Rivermont Staunton 703-368-9803. Coffey (Blue Ridge) 804-332-5757 Park, Lynchburg. Frank Coffey (Blue April 26-28, Friday, Saturday & March 30, Saturday. 11 a.m.-4 Ridge) 804-332-5757. Sunday. The 27th Annual Wild¬ p.m. South Hampton Roads Chap¬ April 18, Monday. 7:30 p.m. flower Pilgrimage by the Science ter plant sale. Francis Land House, "Folklore and Wildflowers." Lec¬ Museum of Western Virginia. Co¬ Virginia Beach. Lee Moomaw (South ture at the Ida Lee Recreation Center, sponsored by Blue Ridge Wildflower Hampton Roads) 804-422-6470. just north of old town Leesburg. Ida Society. Frank Coffey (Blue Ridge) March 30, Saturday. 10 a.m. Lee at (703) 777-1368 or Lloyd Henry 804-332-5757. Spring ephemerals field trip to (Piedmont) at (703) 777-2535. (Continued on page 6) Piedmont Chapter offering info on trillium viewing at Thompson Refuge As part of the 1996 Wildflower one of the largest in the eastern U.S. able to lead walks during this time. If Celebration, the Piedmont Chapter is The peak viewing time occurs at the you plan to visit this Registry area, offering in-depth information about end of April and the first 10 days of (which was the first VNPS registry the Department of Game and Inland May. Piedmont members are avail¬ site) in the spring to witness the amaz¬ Fisheries' G. Richard ing display of tril¬ Thompson Wildlife lium, send a self-ad- Management Area dressed, stamped (55 near Linden. Included cents postage) busi¬ in the invitation is in¬ ness-size envelope to: formation on how to Jocelyn Sladen, 6712 > visit and view the Blantyre Road, VNPS 1996 Wild¬ Warrenton, VA flower of the Year. This 22186. For more in¬ population of large- formation, call Carrie flowered trillium is Blair at 540-364-1232. March 1996 Page 5 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society Calendar of Events West Virginia weekend offers wildflower bonanza (Continued from page 5) May 11-12, Saturday & Sunday. For the 34th year, the Webster April 27-28, Saturday & Sunday. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. & Noon-3 p.m. John Springs Garden Club will sponsor a 10 a.m.-5 p.m. & 1-5 p.m. Garden Clayton Chapter plant sale. Virginia Spring Wildflower Weekend in tour featuring the gardens of Nancy Living Museum, Newport News. Webster Springs, West Virginia. Arrington, Nancy Vehrs/Warren May 18, Saturday. Weyanoke A spring weekend (May 3-5) in Ryder & Tiana Camfiord. Helen Sanctuary fern walk. Lee Moomaw Webster Springs will enrich your Walter (Prince William) 703-754- (South Hampton Roads) 804-422-6470. 8806. May 18-19, Saturday&Sunday. 9 wildflower enjoyment and provide a taste of the simple life. The "bed¬ April 27-28, Saturday & Sunday. a.m.-3 p.m.& Noon-3 p.m. John ding" is in dorm-style cabins (with Overnight field trip to view Trillium Clayton Chapter plant sale. Virginia showers) at a small 4-H camp. The grandiflorum at Thompson Wildlife Living Museum, Newport News. Management Area. Lee Moomaw May 19, Sunday. 10 a.m.-12:30 "board" offers plentiful and deli¬ (South Hampton Roads) 804-422- p.m. Great Falls Park w'ildflower cious food. Painted trillium are located in 6470. walk. Marion Lobstein (Prince Will¬ camp. Near the lake, some special May 4, Saturday. Shale Barrens iam) 703-536-7150. field trip. Frank Coffey (Blue Ridge) May 20, Monday. 7:30 p.m. Wild- ferns and Goodyera repens can be lo¬ 804-332-5757. flowers of Piscataway Park, lecture cated. The Saturday dayhikes are May 11, Sunday. 9 a.m.-Noon. by Brent Steury. Bethel Lutheran geared to a variety of stamina levels Prince William plant sale at Bethel Church in Manassas. Helen Walter and take you past wild larkspur, dwarf ginseng, yellowroot and a Lutheran Church, Manassas. Helen (Prince William) 703-754-8806. Walter (Prince William) 703-754-8806. June 8, Saturday. 8 a.m. for break¬ rich assortment of other native May 11, Saturday. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. fast; 10 a.m. for field trip. Rhododen¬ plants. If extended hiking is a prob¬ 12th Annual Plant Sale. Virginia West¬ dron Day on the Blue Ridge Parkway. lem, car botanizing is a possible al¬ ern Community College Arboretum on ternative, with short walks at choice Frank Coffey (Blue Ridge) 804-332-5757. the campus of Virginia Western. Frank sites. Coffey (Blue Ridge) 804-332-5757. The $55 cost per person includes Leesburg garden show housing and food. The weekend be¬ Wildflower ID classes On April 27 and 28, four city blocks gins with a program by VNPS wild¬ Space may still be available in the of Historic Downtown Leesburg will be flower expert Jay Shaner (Shen¬ spring wildflower identification class transformed into a botanical garden at andoah Chapter) on Friday night. taught by Marion Lobstein in the the Sixth annual Leesburg Flower & There is a gathering around the Garden Show. home of a VNPS member near campfire Saturday evening to share Vendors will display a variety of Marshall, Virginia. The classes run the day's adventures and to listen to gardening equipment, supplies, plants April 12,19,26 and May 3 and include music from the Blue Grass Express. and flowers in addition to landscaped lectures and field trips. Tuition is $75 To receive information on the week¬ gardens. Gardening workshops and for VNPS members. The textbook end, write: Webster County Nature entertainment for all ages are also sched¬ used is Flora of West Virginia and cop¬ Tour, P.O. Box 43, Webster Springs, uled throughout the weekend. ies are available from Lobstein at a WV 26288 or call Stella Riffle at 304- The show is sponsored by 847-2735. reduced price of $35.50. For further in¬ Leesburg's Department of Parks and formation or reservations, call Connie Recreation. For more information, call Pamunkey canoe trip or John Fry at (540) 364-3046 703-777-1262. Enjoy the beauty of spring Directions to North Landing River canoeing from the vantage of a canoe. Come For those readers whose sense of Landing Drawbridge. Look for the join us on our annual spring so¬ adventure was sparked by Vickie sign that says Fentress Airfield journ along a remote section of the Shufer’s article "Canoeing offers Road/Blackwater Road and turn left scenic Pamunkey River where unique way to see native plants," in onto Fentress Airfield Road. It is the dogwoods, redbuds, spring beau¬ the January issue of the VNPS Bul¬ first road past the drawbridge. Go ties, mayapples and more are letin, here is a more detailed set of one block and turn left onto likely to be seen. directions to launch sites: From the Blackwater Road. About 3 miles The trip is planned for April 20 Virginia Beach Resort area, go south south on Blackwater Road is Pocaty at a cost of $25 per person. Canoes, on Pacific Avenue over Rudee Inlet River with limited parking. About 5 paddles, life jackets and some ba¬ and continue on General Booth Bou¬ miles farther south is Blackwater sic canoe instruction will be pro¬ levard to the Municipal Center. Bear River. There is a general store where vided. Deadline to sign up for the left onto N. Landing Road at the people can park and launch canoes. trip is April 12. Contact Garrie Municipal Center and continue This is probably the best launching Rouse at 804-769-1449 for trip de¬ south about 6 miles and past the N. site. tails or to make reservations. Page 6 ~ . =: March 1996 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society Winter wildflower guide offers different look at plants A Guide to Wildflowers in Winter by sary help with terminology. the remnant structures you'll be Carol Levine. 1995. Yale University I found the illustrations to be of looking at. Press, New Haven, CT. Paperback. rather uneven quality. Many are On balance, A Guide to Wildflow¬ $20.00. crisp and clear, on a par with any ers in Winter is a useful and inter¬ A Guide to Wildflowers in Winter field guide illustrations I've seen. esting book, acting as a wake-up offers a means of identifying the Others lack detail and have too call to get out in the winter and see winter remnants of herbaceous much stippling and shading, further what exquisite remains our famil¬ plants in the northeastern United masking fine structural detail. Most iar plants have left behind. Birders States. It has complete descriptive disconcerting was finding captions may find it useful for identifying entries on 391 species along with switched for New York ironweed food plants. Makers of dried ar¬ brief mention of an additional 191 and common sow-thistle on page rangements will find this a source species. The guide features a key to 219. That's a pretty gross error for a of material for their creations. I see winter plants based on their remnant book in this price range. this book as a useful reference and stems, seeds or seed-bearing struc¬ This book goes beyond consider¬ as an introduction to the study of tures and basal rosettes. The key is ation of "wildflowers" and covers seeds and seed-bearing structures. not extremely technical, but new us¬ ferns and fern allies, sedges, rushes I won't call it a "must have," but I ers will have to spend some practice and grasses. The grasses are covered enjoyed getting to know this book time on known plants to learn its ins by a separate key, accompanied by and would consider it a useful and outs. Good introductory mate¬ illustrations of structural terms. I complement to my library. rial on the classification of seeds and was further pleasantly surprised to Mark Gatewood fruits and a concise, illustrated glos¬ find consideration of several types Publications Chair of goldenrod galls with discussion of the insects responsible for making them. I field-tested A Guide to Wildflow¬ ers in Winter through a week of day hikes in early January to see how the book handled life outdoors. The covers have a slick, apparently wa¬ terproof finish which fended off mud and moisture. They are a bit thin for protracted field use; mine are now bent and dog-eared from being pulled in and out of my pack. Someday the publishers of field guides will give us'books with rounded corners, like on trail and hiking guides, to slip easily in and out of packs and pockets. The author doesn't mention this, but I think a good 10X lens is a necessary com¬ panion to this book, not only to as¬ sist in keying specimens but to en¬ hance your appreciation of some of

"A Reunion of Trees" gives insight into history of colonization After just finishing A Reunion of To quote from the foreword: landscapes brought about by the Trees by Stephen Spongberg, horti¬ "The purpose of this book is to help migrations of trees and shrubs cultural taxonomist at Harvard's all of us, expert and amateur alike, through geologic change, explora¬ Arnold Arboretum, I felt I should to comprehend our present situation tion, and cultivation. Second, the call it to the attention of other Vir¬ by telling the history of world ex¬ book tells of some of the shifts in our J ginia Native Plant Society members. ploration for woody plants. The his¬ ideas about woody plants and their The book is delightfully written, tory given here is of two sorts: envi¬ meanings for human existence." easy reading, and liberally embel¬ ronmental and intellectual. First, the In the early days of Western lished with old woodcuts, draw¬ book tells of the transformations of Hemisphere colonization, botanists ings, photographs and paintings. the North American and Eurasian (See Book, page 10) March 1996 Page 7 - Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society - Cryptogams: Tips for having fun with fern genes

Following an interesting pro¬ tips of fronds on the Christmas ferns hayscented fern (Dennstaedtia gram by Dr. Tom Nye on ferns at the and rock-cap ferns (both Polystichum punctilobula) often seen in open fields. December meeting of the spp.). On royal ferns a fruiting body If you want to grow ferns just to Shenandoah Chapter, I briefly out¬ appears as a dark brown structure at study the stages in their life cycle or lined a fern propagating technique the tip of a frond. With maidenhair to transplant them to a suitable site which I had used several times with ferns only the outer margins of pin¬ at a later date, the best substrate I success. I was asked where I had nules carry the sori. (The singular of have tried is commercial cat litter. I learned the method, but at the mo¬ sori is sorus). Any patch (stand) of do not think the brand name matters. ment I could not remember. ferns is a site for sori. The texture is such that a great deal I later recalled that my under¬ Some species of ferns will hy¬ of irregular surfaces are exposed in graduate botany teacher. Professor bridize when the spores are grown many angles—this appears to be C. Moore at Fairmont State College, in contact with each other. An ex¬ important. Regardless why, it works. suggested it to me for growing ample is the walking fern One nice thing about an artificial mosses when I was doing a special (Camptosorus) x ebony spleenwort substrate such as cat litter is that you problem in 1952 on the Family (Asplenium). The hybrid is Asplenium can start ferns indoors before spores Hypnaceae. I since have used the X Ebenoides. (The capital "X" signi¬ can be grown outside. I use a baking technique for propagating other fies the cross is between two genera, pan lined with a piece of felt or with spore-bearing cryptogams. (Etymol¬ and the ending "oides" notes that the paper towels that hold a supply of ogy: Gk. Krypto, to hide; Gk. gameo, hybrid is ebony-like). The common water for a fairly long time. Moisture to marry, thus, having hidden repro¬ name is dragon tail spleenwort. The is an important requirement to ger¬ duction organs.) Cryptogams in¬ ferns, 4-9 inches high, from this minating spores. Do not add com¬ clude the Bryophyta (liverworts and cross, have highly variable fronds. mercial fertilizers such as 10-10-10. mosses) and the Pteridophyta (horse¬ Often they are like spleenwort at the These would bum spores before they tails, club mosses and ferns). All base and have long dragon-tail tips could germinate. cryptogams form spores, while of the walking ferns. The hybrid is Step 4 - With a supply of spores higher plants, the Spermatophyta, well adapted to limestone sites. I had and a ready substrate at hand, the bear seeds. some in my Japanese-style garden next thing is the vehicle that will The reproductive spores of cryp¬ until hairy-tailed rats (some folks evenly disperse the spores, such as togams are microscopic in size. Since call them gray squirrels) dug them a liquid. I call this liquid the spore- they are "hidden from sight," they up while burying nuts. This is the carrier-media. For this I use low fat present problems not encountered most interesting hybrid I know. buttermilk to suspend the spores by those accustomed to growing You can even gather spores from and hold them to the substrate. In a only seed plants. How can one herbarium specimens that are many food blender or food processor, put evenly disperse minute, invisible years old. I once grew the moss a pint or so of buttermilk and the dry spores over the surface of a substrate Dicranium spp. from spores of plants fern leaflets (pinnules) that have on which they want them to grow? collected and pressed more than 50 sori. Pulse until well-blended. You ONE METHOD years earlier. It is my opinion that the may want to experiment with the Step 1. Have a reason, need or viability of spores is much greater measure of fern leaflets per pint of desire to grow a specific species of than that of seeds; however, I have buttermilk. As I recall, I used two cryptogam. not read of any scientific comparison spleenwort and three or four walk¬ Step 2. Have a source of mature of the two. ing fem fronds to a pint of butter¬ spores of the species you wish to Regardless of your spore source, milk for my dragon tail spleenwort propagate. You may want to collect they MUST be collected DRY and mix. The spores are essentially ho¬ spores from the field. If so, learn KEPT DRY until time to plant them. mogenized in the buttermilk. At where on the plant they are to be Step 3. Select the substrate or site least they remain suspended for a found. On ferns such as grape, where you hope to grow your cryp¬ few hours. The spore/milk mixture adder's tongue, rattlesnake and togams, in this case, ferns. If you can be frozen and then thawed to be moonwort, a fertile stalk bearing have a stone garden or stone wall, used at a later time. the sporophyll contains the spore you may want to grow ferns there A spore/milk dispenser is the cases. Most ferns have both sterile without transplanting them. A suit¬ next adventure. I have tried two and fertile fronds in the same plant. able soil can be blended from equal methods here. One for applying the The spores occur in sporangia (spore parts of peat, sand and loam. If the spore/milk mixture to the cat litter cases) carried sori (Gk., "heaps") on fern requires mostly shade, you must substrate, the other for an applica¬ the underneath regions of fronds provide it. Few ferns will grow well tion to soil in the crevices and joints (fern leaves). Sori appear only at the in full sun. One exception is the (See Ferns, page 10)

Page 8 March 1996 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society •Food (Continued from page 3) Fern fiddleheads make tasty spring treat they too find favor among foragers. Fern fiddleheads were a regular springtime item for my family. We liked The flower stalk, just before the flower to search for morel mushrooms in April and gathered fiddleheads during opens, can be cut, peeled and eaten. It our morel forays. has a taste similar to celery and is used I have heard some people complain about how bitter their fiddleheads the same way. tasted, and remark they would never try them again. The fact is, all species Cattails (Typha latifolia and T. angustifolia) grow in wet areas and can of fem fiddleheads are quite bitter EXCEPT those of ostrich ferns, cinnamon be gathered all year at some stage. In ferns and braken (brake) ferns. These are the only delightfully edible spe¬ the spring the young shoots can be cut cies. All other ferns have such a high tannic acid content that even their and the outer leaves stripped down fiddleheads are very bitter and gastronomically disagreeable. The ostrich to the inner steam which has a cucum- ferns are the fiddleheads commercially canned and available at the market. ber-like taste. These can be eaten raw They are gathered in the New England states. The ostrich fern is rather un¬ in salads or added to stir-fried veg¬ common in our area of the mountains. etables. Later when the flowerbuds I would like to share my favorite recipe for fem fiddleheads. develop, they too can be steamed and eaten and have a taste similar to com, FERN FIDDLEHEADS WITH MORELS AND NUTS hence "kitten-on-the-cob." The pollen (Serves 4) can be collected in a bowl and added 1 pound fern fiddleheads (of edible species) to flour for baking. 1/3 to 1/2 pound morel mushrooms Not all plants are edible. Some are 2 tablespoons butter poisonous, even deadly, when con¬ 2 shallots, finely chopped (small sweet onions may be substituted) sumed in large quantities. Positive 1 bunch fresh chervil, chopped identification of the plant and cer¬ 1/2 cup beef stock tainty of its edibility is always neces¬ salt and pepper to taste sary before tasting wild plants. 1 /2 cup pine nuts or hickory nuts, toasted and chopped Native plants are a part of our Carefully clean the fiddleheads and morels. If using cinnamon fern fiddle- heritage and have played an impor¬ heads, brush away most of the hairs. Split the morels in half. Soak morels and tant role as a food source in the lives ferns in either salt water or vinegar a few minutes. Drain and dry on toweling. of our ancestors. Even though today Heat butter in a heavy skillet over medium-low heat. Saute morels for two we can go to the grocery store and minutes. Add fiddleheads, chervil and shallots and saute for one minute. Add walk down the aisles picking up cans beef stock and seasoning. Cover and simmer for three minutes. Serve warm; of food and pushing a cart, it's just not garnished with nuts. Great with toasted homemade bread. the same as walking down the trail, Submitted by Dr. Elwood Fisher, a member of the Shenandoah Chapter and Professor carrying a bag, and looking for that Emeritus of Biology at James Madison University in Harrisonburg. special treat. When collecting wild plants for food, remember that plants should never be collected Vickie Shufer, a member of South Hamp¬ on public land or without permission from private landowners. In addition, rare plants should ton Roads Chapter, is the editor of The Wild NEVER be collected and even commonly occurring plants should never be overharvested. Foods Forum. The Bulletin See the address label for your membership's expiration date. is published five times a year VNPS Membership/Renewal Form (Jan., March, May, August, Nov.) by Name(s)_ Virginia Native Plant Society P.O. Box 844, Annandale, VA Address_ 22003 City_ State Z|P_ (703) 368-9803 _Individual $15 _Family $25 Student $10 Frank Coffey, President _Patron $50 _Sustaining $100 Life $400 Nancy Sorrells, Editor _Associate (group) $40; delegate_ Barbara Stewart, Artist To give a gift membership or join additional chapters: Enclose dues, name, address, and Original material contained in the Bulle¬ chapter. (Non-voting memberships in any other than your primary chapter are $5). tin may be reprinted, provided credit is given to the author, if named. Readers I wish to make an additional contribution to _ VNPS Chapter are invited to send letters, news items, in the amount of_$10_$25_$50 $100 or original articles for the editor's con¬ _Check here if you do not wish your name _Check here if you do not wish sideration. They should be typed to be exchanged with similar organizations. to be listed in a chapter directory. (double-spaced, please) or sent as a Macintosh text file to the Editor at Rt. 2, Make check payable to VNPS and mail to; Box 726, Greenville, VA 24440. VNPS Membership Chair, 3924 Cobbler Mtn. Rd., Delaplane, VA 22025 The deadline for the next issue is April 10

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March 1996 Page 9 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society 'Ferns •Book- seed flat for further growth. Later, (Continued from page 8) (Continued from page 7) small ferns can be transplanted to from Europe eagerly sought new of stone retainer walls and similar flower pots or a fern garden. plants, primarily herbaceous ones habitats. If you start ferns from spores in with medicinal properties, to send First, the technique for the cat lit¬ a natural landscape situation, the back home to their physic gardens. ter substrate. Presoak the litter in hot site must have the correct exposure The collection of trees and shrubs for water for an hour or until completely to sun and shade, moisture, soil and landscaping quickly followed and saturated so it can supply moisture other requirements needed by the proceeded until the 1850s when to the spore-carrier media. Drain the specific species of fern. Ecological heretofore unknown trees and new presoaked litter well and put it into observations are important here. shrubs from our West Coast were a kitchen strainer that is positioned For a habitat, such as a stone shipped back home to Europe. Dur¬ over a bowl. Pour the spore/milk wall cavity, I have used a basting ing the same period of time there mixture through the litter. It should syringe. More recently I have used was also an immigration of plants to be well coated with one application. recycled plastic containers, such as our country from Europe and Asia. Let the litter dry while preparing the empty syrup bottles, for the job and This history book, of unexpected substrate holder. Fit either a damp find that these work best. They are paper towel or a moist piece of felt breadth, is artistically presented, easily filled with the spore/milk into the bottom of a baking sheet or and has a sneaky appeal. Open it, mixture and can be directed inside pan. read a page, and if you have any in¬ spots that are hard to get to. A little terest in plants, you will want to Next, spread the inoculated cat squirt in the correct place will do the litter uniformly over the tray liner. read more. job if conditions are proper for Loosely cover with glass or clear Ted Scott, Conservation Chair growth of spores. plastic to reduce moisture loss. Leave FERN AWAY, BY GULLY! •Conference some space for evaporation so molds Dr. Elwood Fisher, a member of the (Continued from page 1) will not form. Most spores will grow Shenandoah Chapter, is Professor the necessary tools to advocate ef¬ at temperatures from 55 to 75 degrees Emeritus of Biology at James Madison fectively. F. Place the container where it re¬ University in Harrisonburg. ceives 6 to 8 hours of indirect light The $10 registration fee to the daily. In two weeks to a month, heart- New zip codes day-long conference covers the cost shaped gametophytes, called proth- The zip codes of many of our of a box lunch. Registration infor¬ alli, appear. Then these small green members are changing July 1. Please, mation (name, address, phone num¬ discs send up tiny erect fern-like when you renew your membership, ber, fax number and e-mail address plants called sporophytes. When this let us know what your new zip code if you have one) and checks pay¬ stage begins to root, lift the plants is, or send a change of address form able to NWF can be mailed to: Brent so that VNPS mail will arrive safely with a table fork into small pots or a Plater, Wildlife Federation, 1400 16th at your home. St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20036.

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w Printed on recycled paper A publication of the VIRGINIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY Conserving wild flowers and wild places Cautious optimism exists for Division of Natural Heritage What happened to the Division that several of our chapters took the of Natural Heritage after our story task very seriously (though a few in the January Bulletin? did not) so the effort did get our This is an attempt to bring you message to those delegates and up to date. After the story appeared, senators. The result of our efforts members of the Virginia Native Plant and the efforts of others, primarily Society initiated a letter-writing The Nature Conservancy which un¬ campaign to key members of the dertook an intensive effort, was the General Assembly. This was accom¬ bill’s defeat in committee by both the plished by contacting the presidents House and Senate. of all VNPS chapters and asking That defeat accomplished half them to have 10 to 12 members each the job. We then asked each chapter write a letter to a list of house del¬ to have the same number of people egates and senators. The letters were make phone calls to another group to point out reasons why the pro¬ of key delegates and senators urg¬ posal to transfer the Division of ing them to restore the funding nec¬ Natural Heritage (DNH) from the essary for the DNH to operate for Department of Conservation and the next two years. That, too, was ac¬ Recreation (DCR) to the Department complished in both the House and of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) the Senate by comfortable margins was a destructive idea. and forwarded to the Governor for We don't know how many letters his signature. Unfortunately, there were written, but the potential was was a question about whether the for each of the delegates and sena¬ Governor might veto the funding tors to receive 90 to 100. We do know (See DNH, page 8) Inside this issue •Annual Meeting registration form, insert

•Spring and summer wildflower events, page 3

•Highlights from the Winter Workshop, page 4 - Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society From the President The response to our Year End Ap¬ project replaces the auction as the tion and passed out a lot of material peal has been tremendous! Our current fund-raiser at the Annual Meeting about the Society and invasive alien total is just over $5,200. Thanks so and so must be a success. plants. A special thanks to Nicky and much for your generous support and a The VNPS Invasive Alien Plant dis- Loren Staunton and Bob Eubank for as- special thanks to an anonymous donor playgot a lot of attention at the Virginia sisting with our display. for a $1,000 contribution. Our The Clean Water and goal was to develop and pur¬ Wetlands Conference empha¬ chase a large display unit that sized the importance of each will get attention and help us of us taking a strong stand for communicate more effectively our environment. Please our Virginia Native Plant So¬ communicate with your con¬ ciety message. We are moving gressman or senator the im¬ ahead with these plans and portance of a strong Endan¬ should have our unit by early gered Species Act and envi¬ summer. It will be set up at the ronmentally friendly legisla¬ Annual Meeting for all to see. tion. We cannot accept less! I had the pleasure of visit¬ The records of most of ing the Shenandoah Chapter re¬ our congressional leaders cently and discovered that plans are very poor concerning for the Annual Meeting are pro¬ these issues. Communicate gressing nicely. The hand- your displeasure about in¬ quilted wall hanging is truly dividual legislation that beautiful and a real work of art. may be environmentally It contains squares with our past, The quilted wall hanging being raffled off at the An¬ threatening. Remember, the present and future Virginia nual Meeting hosted by the Shenandoah Chapter. air we breathe, the water we Wildflowers of the Year in beau- drink and the wild habitats tiful applique and embroidery. Tickets are Clean Water and Wetlands Conference we all enjoy depend on legislators get¬ now available through the Shenandoah held at Virginia Commonwealth Uni¬ ting the message that these things are Chapter. Everyone needs to purchase and versity in March. We were a co-spon¬ important. Your president, help sell the tickets! Remember, this sor with the National Wildlife Federa- Frank Coffey Botany chair leaves Virginia for arboretum in Flagstaff, Arizona It was with a touch of sadness, for the wildflower of the year brochures ate in plant ecology. but also with some great expecta¬ and supplied several articles to the The harsh natural setting of the tions for his future work with plants VNPS Bulletin. region and limited plant diversity cre¬ that Botany Chair Chris Sacchi has The move to Flagstaff will be a ate a natural reliance on the horticul¬ turned in his resignation to the Vir¬ reunion between Chris and the na¬ tural use of native plants, Chris ex¬ ginia Native Plant Society. He will tive flora of that region. After earn¬ plained, adding that at 7,200 feet the ar¬ be leaving VNPS and his current po¬ ing his bachelor's degree in biology boretum is the highest elevation of any sition at the state arboreteum to be at Fairfield University in Connecti¬ botanical garden in the United States. director of the Arboretum at Flag¬ cut and his master's in zoology at "There is a vast pine forest sur¬ staff, Arizona. Rutgers, he traveled to Northern rounding the arboretum. The orga- Chris has been the curator of the Arizona at Flagstaff to earn a doctor¬ (See Botany, page 4) Virginia State Arboreteum at Blandy for the past eight years. During that same Opening remains for Bruce Peninsula trip time he has also been a member of One of the persons registered Anyone interested should contact VNPS through the Piedmont Chapter. for the Virginia Native Plant Soci¬ Ted Scott at 12493 Spicewood Road, He has aided the society on a variety of ety trip to the Bruce Peninsula in Orange, VA 22960 or call 540-672- local and state levels by giving lectures, Canada has unfortunately been 2814 as soon as possible. leading wildflower walks and conduct¬ forced to cancel. This creates a va¬ For more information about the ing classes at the winter workshop. He cancy for someone else to fill. The Bruce excursion and the exciting is currently serving as the state Botany trip will leave Virginia June 14 and wildflowers to be discovered, see Chair. In that capacity he wrote the text return June 23. The cost is $450. the November 1995 Bulletin. Page 2 —.. — May 1996 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society Calendar of Events May 11, Saturday, 8:30 a.m., all May 26, Sunday, 1:30 p.m. Hike day. Shale Barrens walk.Bring a along Tillman Road. Jake Kagey lunch. Jake Kagey (Shenandoah) (Shenandoah) 540-828-3297. 540-828-3297. June 8, Saturday, 9 a.m.-noon. May 11, Saturday, 9 a.m.-noon. Sandy Bottom Park in Hampton. Pat Prince William Wildflower Society Baldwin (John Clayton) 804-838-2064). plant sale. Parking lot of Bethel June 8, Saturday. Dragon Run Lutheran Church in Manassas. Marie Canoe trip. Mary Berg (John Davis (Prince William) 703-361-1626. Clayton) 804-693-3568. May 11-12, Saturday & Sunday. June 22, Saturday. 8:30 a.m. Blue May 18 & 19, Saturday & Sunday. Ridge Parkway walk. Bring lunch. Jake Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Sundays Kagey (Shenandoah) 540-828-3297. noon to 3 p.m. John Clayton Chapter June 23, Sunday, 4 p.m. South plant sale held jointly with the Vir¬ Hampton Roads family picnic, Penstemon ginia Living Museum. Jane Showacre Lynnhaven House Lawn. Becky 'Husker Red' (John Clayton) 804-435-3912. White (South Hampton Roads) 804- Illustration May 18, Saturday, Potowmack 489-7067. Nicky Chapter Spring Plant Sale, Green July 25, Thursday, 7 p.m. Staunton Spring Gardens Park in Fairfax Potowmack Chapter meeting. Talk County. For more information, call on "Grasses" by Cris Fleming. American native plant Green Spring at 703-642-5173 or Alonso Abugattas (Potowmack) 703- Gerry Pratt at 703-323-1094. 528-8529. chosen as top perennial May 19, Sunday, 2 p.m. Fern July 27, Saturday, 8:30 a.m. walk, mini-program. Weyanoke Massanutten Mountain flora. Bring The Perennial Plant Association Sanctuary. Becky White (South lunch. Jake Kagey (Shenandoah) 540- has chosen an American native, Pen¬ Hampton Roads) 804-489-7067. 828-3297. stemon 'Husker Red/ as its perennial May 19, Sunday, 10 a.m.-12:30 July 29-August 2, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. of the year for 1996. 'Husker Red' is a p.m. Great Falls Park wildflower Course on Ecology of the Chesapeake selection of Penstemon digitalis com¬ hike. Marion Lobstein (Prince Will¬ Bay. NVCC-Manassas Campus. Call monly know as smooth white or fox¬ iam) 703-536-7150. 703-257-6605 for more information. glove beardtongue. The species is found in meadows, prairies and along woodland edges throughout the east¬ Video of fall wildflowers rated a winner ern and central United States. The best of flower books all have their limitations. The color reproduc¬ Like the species, this cultivar is tion, the close-up of the flower excluding the leaves and the gestalt of the about 30 inches tall with white tubu¬ plant are some of the limitations of books. The video media overcomes these lar flowers covering about one third faults. of the stem. Flowers have a hint of Fall Wild Flowers of the Eastern Forest video is a wonderful portrayal of 80 pink not usually found in the species, flowers that bloom in autumn. It includes all of Virginia except the Coastal and foliage is a dark burgundy or Plain. A handy chart is attached to the cover and permits the viewer to fol¬ bronze-red rather than the usual low the tape. This chart includes information on the height and habitat, green. growth habits and rating of ease to cultivate. The original plant was discovered The tape was filmed by Anne H. Lindsey and the script written by Dr. in a Nebraska garden and introduced Clyde Richie Bell, University of North Carolina botany professor and Direc¬ in 1983 by horticulturist Dr. Dale tor of the North Carolina Botanical Garden. Dr. Bell’s other publications Lindgren who named it for its lovely include Manual of the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas (1964) and Wild Flowers of foliage and the University of Ne¬ North Carolina (1968). braska where he works. This tape is the third in a series which includes the spring (100 species), Each year the Perennial Plant As¬ and summer (80 species) wild flowers of the Eastern forest. Original music sociation features a perennial that is for the video was composed by Scott Pearson. Richie Bell, Anne Lindsey and attractive, easy to grow and widely Scott Pearson have a winner on their hands. available. Natives chosen in the past The fall tape is available from Laurel Hill Press, Box 16516, Chapel Hill, include Phlox stolonifera, Heuchera 'Pal¬ N.C. 27516. The phone number is 919-942-9533. The price is $26.95 or $59.95 ace Purple,' and Coreopsis verticillata for all three in the series. 'Moonbeam.' E. Carter Nettles, Jr. VNPS member May 1996 Page 3 - Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society ======Ideas germinate at VNPS Winter Workshop The Virginia Native Plant densis, Iris). Corms of Jack-in-the-pul- either bright outdoor light or indoor Society's 1996 Winter Workshop on pit (Arisaema triphyllum) can be di¬ grow lights. Hardwood stem cuttings * plant propagation was held at the vided with a sharp knife, bulbs of are taken just before the plant loses its University of Richmond. One hun¬ other plants can be scored, and lilies leaves in the fall and are heeled into dred members from all areas of the can be propagated by removing moist sand through the winter. state attended. Topics included seed scales surrounding the bulb. The easi¬ FERN PROPAGATION propagation; vegetative propagation est method of vegetative propagation FROM SPORES of roots, rhizomes, corms and bulbs; is division of the roots and can be Tim William's fern propagation woody plant propagation by layering used for most native perennials. method involves sprinkling spores and cuttings; and propagation of ferns Plants with a deep taproot, such as onto moistened peat tabs and placing from spores. butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa) them in a covered plastic container. A brief summary of the presenta¬ that are difficult or impossible to di¬ Humidity should be very high and the tions follows. vide can be propagated by root cut¬ tabs need to be constantly moist. This SEED PROPAGATION tings. Scott recommended coating cut arrangement should be kept under Jefferson Chapter member and surfaces of underground parts with a low light at room temperature for six past Education Chair Tim Williams fungicide to prevent rot before replant¬ months, until germination takes place. introduced a video in which Dr. ing. He also advised the use of rubber Another three months must lapse dur¬ Norman C. Deno, a retired chemistry gloves and a dust mask when handling ing which time the tiny single cell professor, explained how he has un¬ fungicides, growth hormones, perlite, plants (prothallus) become about a half locked the secrets of germination for vermiculite and peat moss. inch in diameter. They should be cov¬ around 4,000 species over the past sev¬ Scott explained that the simplest ered with a thin film of water at this eral years. Dr. Deno says there is no method of vegetatively propagating time. When the second leaf appears, excuse for endangered species—just woody plants is by layering. In this the plants should be placed in potting identify the one or more strategies process, a low growing branch is cut soil and kept very moist. When five each species employs to insure that its halfway through, dusted with growth or six leaves are present, the plants can seed germinates at the time when hormone, propped open with a tooth¬ be placed in the garden. natural conditions are right for opti¬ pick, covered with soil and held in It is difficult to do justice to Tim ^ mal germinations. In most cases, you place with a rock. Williams' and Ted Scott's impressive will merely be mimicking nature. Included in this session was a dis¬ presentations in this limited space. The nine methods of breaking cussion of propagation of woody Participants gained a vast amount of seed dormancy range from the very plants using softwood and semi¬ useful information. For the unfortu¬ simple idea of dry or moist storage to hardwood stem cuttings. One key to nate who were unable to attend, cop¬ the more complicated monthly and success is selecting vigorous new ies of information sheets are available. even daily temperature cycles and the growth at the proper stage of matu¬ Send a SASE to: VNPS Propagation use of gibberellic acid. rity for the method chosen, Scott Workshop, P.O. Box 844, Annandale, TUBERS, TUBEROUS ROOTS noted. Cuttings must be kept moist, VA 22003. A bibliography listing RHIZOMES, CORMS, BULBS either under a misting system or in¬ books recommended by the two pre¬ VNPS Conservation Chair Ted side a plastic box or bag, until they senters is also available. Scott, also a member of the Jefferson root. Most cuttings need a tempera¬ Nancy Arrington Chapter and an avid plant propaga¬ ture of 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit and Horticulture Chair tor, explained that growing plants from seed produces a variety of seed¬ •Botany lings and occasionally you will get (Continued front page 2) trip to the G. Richard Thompson that special plant which can be given nization has a strong committment to Wildlife Management Center to see a cultivar name and promoted in the the use of native plants in a horticul¬ the trillium display there was horticulture trade (See related 'Husker tural setting," he said. among his final excursions. Red' article on page 2 of the Bulletin). "I am looking forward to the new "Chris has been quite an asset to However, if you want an exact clone challenge. They have been very success¬ the Society," said VNPS president Frank or duplicate of a particular plant, you ful in doing research in rare Arizona Coffey. "We will certainly miss him. But must use vegetative propagation. plants and I want to be a part of that he has promised to keep in touch With slides and plants, Scott discussed team," he added. through the Internet. He has also propagation of many native species by Chris left for Flagstaff in mid-May agreed to write the 1997 Virginia ^ dividing their underground parts: tu¬ and his wife plans to make the move Native Plant Society Wildflower of ■ bers (Helianthus tuberosa), tuberous within a few weeks. His remaining the Year brochure and will conduct roots (Mertensia virginica), and rhi¬ time in the region, however, was spent the survey to decide the 1998 zomes (Trillium, Sanguinaria cana- "enjoying my last Virginia spring." A choice." Page 4 May 1996 — Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society ======From Near and Far Progress made in educating about problems of invasive plants

For years the Virginia Native most of those in Northern Virginia) normal host plants are various spe¬ Plant Society has extolled the virtues are trying to control invasives as part cies of toothwort, but it prefers to lay of our native flora while warning of of their resource management de¬ its eggs on garlic mustard. Unfortu¬ the dangers posed by invasive (of¬ spite shrinking budgets. nately, this invasive plant is toxic to ten exotic) plants. That effort to in¬ •Waterfowl hunters and duck the caterpillars who are then poi¬ form the public is finally paying off clubs are realizing the threats of soned and die. as many different groups and orga¬ purple loosestrife and phragmites to These are just a few of the many nizations are also taking up the wetland habitat and are actively try¬ examples of how people are realiz¬ cause. The following should serve as ing eliminate them. ing the very real threat posed by examples: •Boaters support efforts to con¬ invasive plants. As more people be¬ •Congress had its Office of Tech¬ trol hydrilla and other aquatic veg¬ come aware, we can all pool our re¬ nology Assessment conduct a study etation that block waterways and sources to help restore and protect in 1991 entitled "Harmful Non-in- ruin motors. our native flora and all the animal digenous Species in the United •Many nurseries are starting to life that depends on it. That is why States." This study though it does give in to public pressure and de¬ our efforts, through groups like not set forth many ways to control mand by selling more native plants VNPS, are so important. We have a invasive plants and animals, recog¬ and refusing to sell invasives. long way to go, but we are making nizes the threat. Let's hope today's •Butterfly enthusiasts, such as headway. Congress heeds these findings. Virginia expert Harry Pavulaan, are Alonso Abugattas •Beekeepers are realizing that confirming observations about gar¬ (Alonso Abugattas is a naturalist at Long they lose millions of dollars yearly lic mustard. Seems that a certain na¬ Branch Nature Center in Arlington County. in unusable honey produced when tive butterfly called the West Vir¬ He is also the program chair of the Ailanthus is in bloom. ginia white is slowly breeding itself Potowmack Chapter.) ) • Many park systems (including into extinction. How is that? Well, its Wildflowers and wineries mix well on spring excursion near Potomac Life is ever-changed by wild October 1985 flood along the Potomac. Along the muddy banks of the flower friends! Wildflowers are to The Hubert's grandchild noted that Potomac, we found a healthy family seek, photograph, draw, and inven¬ their peak overlooking the waters of Dutchmen's breeches looking tory. They even lead us to meetings draining away was like being Noah on down upon a single clump of blue¬ with wonderful fellow wildflower en¬ Mount Ararat. After Noah's animals bells. The bluebells must have been thusiasts. Add a wine connection: were freed from the ark, Noah turned the sole survivor of the winter floods Tarara Winery owned by Whitey and to vineyards and wine making. The as¬ that occurred when the Potomac over¬ Margaret Hubert and you have a per¬ sociation was perfect, but the Huberts flowed its banks. Only the cold, damp fect combination. decided to soften Ararat with a reverse weather shortened the adventure. Several weeks before Easter, spelling and there was the name— The weather was not a problem, winemaster Rick Donnelly called with Tarara. however, because we proceeded to an invitation to lead a wildflower hike There was no hesitation in accept¬ Tarara's wine tasting. Delicious pinot at a winery in Lucketts, Virginia. There ing the invitation to Tarara's wild¬ noir and cabernet brought a warm end was to be a spring celebration with flower walk because Marion to the gray, damp, cold wildflower kite flying, egg hunts, and hikes on Lobstein's spring wildflower classes hike. We learned that Rick Donnelly spring wildflower trails. Tarara! had included field trips to nearby Balls is not only the winemaker at Tarara, "Tarara-boom-de-ay?" No. Tarara Bluff and Red Rock, both near but is very interested in the natural Winery—a beautiful gray stone win¬ Leesburg. These two areas are spring resources of the winery. Whitey and ery and home on a bluff overlooking ephemerals. Our brief walk through Margaret Hubert, the owners of the Potomac River. Under the build¬ the forest from Tarara's bluff to the Tarara, graciously invited us back for ing is a cave blasted from the hillside floodplain cornfield and the shore of another hike. It will be a pleasure to which is the work area. The natural the Potomac revealed coltsfoot, anticipate such a visit. How fortunate architecture and the nearby woods bittercress, field speedwell, toothwort, the Tarara wildflowers are to have ) and rocks blended perfectly. bloodroot, corydalis, sessile trillium, such appreciative hosts In fact, it is the landscape of the an extensive family of trout-lilies, Nicky Staunton area which inspired the winery's spring beauties, and spicebush. VNPS 2nd Vice-President name. Tarara was chosen after the

May 1996 Page 5 ----- Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society ===^==

VIRGINIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY PHOTO CONTEST VIRGINIA WILDFLOWER OF THE YEAR 1997 FRINGE-TREE RULES

1. Open to VNPS members only. (Members of VNPS Photo Committee ineligible to compete.)

2. Two categories of contestants: Professional (Main livelihood) or amateur.

3. Each photographer may submit one photo per class of photograph: A. Fringe-tree in the wild B. Fringe-tree in cultivated setting C. Entire tree D. Floral portrait (close-up)

4. Entries must be 8x10 inch prints (no slides) with stiff backing, no matting, no frames.

5. A fee of $1 per entry is to accompany each photograph to defray costs of contest.

6. Contestant name, address and phone number should be placed on back of the submitted photos. Indicate whether professional or amateur. Also, indicate class for the photograph as detailed in item 3 above.

7. Color or black and white prints may be submitteed, but will be judged together.

8. Deadline for entries: August 1,1996 postmark.

9. Mail entries to: VNPS Photo Contest 8815 Fort Drive Manassas, VA 22110

AWARDS: Each of the four categories will receive a first, second and third place award. An honorable mention may be awarded. There will be one grand prize winner. Prizes will be awarded to the winners.

VNPS reserves the right to use winning photographs in an exhibition and possible use in production of the 1997 Virginia Wildflower of the Year brochure. Winners will be expected to furnish the slide or negative for the winning prints.

NAME _ ADDRESS

PHONE _ CLASSES ENTERED (circle) ABC D Fee enclosed: _ Return coupon with photos to: VNPS Photo Contest 1996, 8815 Fort Drive, Manassas, VA 22110

Page 6 = May 1996 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society Chapter News. Potowmack Chapter does its part to help education According to a publication of the plants. The $500, awarded as two continues to be developed, our wild Arlingtonians for a Clean Environ¬ scholarships to two Arlington lands are disappearing. The pockets ment, the Potowmack Chapter County schools which won the of wildlands that remain become knows how to put its money where chapter's scholarship competition, open to invasion by exotic species its values are. The chapter has made will be used to establish native and the natural diversity is reduced." two significant contributions to plant gardens and corresponding "Native plants can teach us a lot schoolyard education this year. curriculums. about the importance of diversity," First the chapter has awarded Secondly, chapter members are says Luria. "A habitat diverse in na¬ $500 in scholarship grants to sup¬ footing the bill to hire a botanist for tive plant species will be a rich and port teachers' efforts in educating two teacher training workshops. viable habitat for animals as well," children about Virginia’s native "It seems that our children are Duchon adds. "Our region's native being taught a lot about tropical flora is part of our natural heritage. Edible plant warning plants, but not even the teachers If we don't preserve that, we end up Two astute readers of the themselves know much about Vir¬ looking like everywhere else." March Bulletin, which offered sto¬ ginia native plants," says Nancy Teachers are welcome to contact ries on eating wild plants, have Luria, Education Chair for the chap¬ Nancy Luria at 703-642-5173 with sent warnings on the subject. ter. Chapter Conservation Chair, ideas as to how the Potowmack Chap¬ Lytton Musselman, who is in Abbie Duchon, says: "As our region ter might help their teaching efforts. the Old Dominion University De¬ partment of Biology, noted that: Potowmack sponsors intern, wins award "While it is true that the fiddle- Thanks to a $2,000 donation from the Potowmack Chapter, a summer heads of the ostrich fern are edible, intern will be able to gain valuable experience working with Virginia's na¬ almost all other ferns including the tive plants. The intern will be responsible for working on the Virginia Na¬ cinnamon and braken ferns...are tive Plant Trail at Green Spring Gardens Park in Fairfax County. Green Spring not only inedible but actually has been serving the citizens of Northern Virginia for 26 years. toxic." He added: "No native ferns This donation is in addition to contributions made by the chapter to in Virginia should be ingested." other local parks like Riverbend and Long Branch Nature Centers. Elaine Singer, who has lectured Because of the Potowmack Chapter's active involvement in such work, widely on the use of herbs, warned the Fairfax County Park Authority awarded the Potowmack Chapter a plaque that not all violets are edible, add¬ for the second year in a row for its continuing support of parks and its con¬ ing that there is a toxic yellow violet. servation efforts.

The Bulletin See the address label for your membership's expiration date. is published five times a year VNPS Membership/Renewal Form (Jan., March, May, August, Nov.) by Name(s)_ Virginia Native Plant Society Address_ P.O. Box 844, Annandale, VA 22003 City_ State ZiP_ (703) 368-9803 _Individual $15 _Family $25 Student $10 _Patron $50 _Sustaining $100 Life $400 Frank Coffey, President Nancy Sorrells, Editor _Associate (group) $40; delegate_ Barbara Stewart, Artist To give a gift membership or join additional chapters: Enclose dues, name, address, and Original material contained in the Bulle¬ chapter. (Non-voting memberships in any other than your primary chapter are $5). tin may be reprinted, provided credit is I wish to make an additional contribution to _ VNPS Chapter given to the author, if named. Readers are invited to send letters, news items, in the amount of_$10_$25_$50 $100 or original articles for the editor’s con¬ _Check here if you do not wish your name _Check here if you do not wish sideration. They should be typed to be exchanged with similar organizations. to be listed in a chapter directory. (double-spaced, please) or sent as a Macintosh text file to the Editor at Rt. 2, ■) Make check payable to VNPS and mail to: Box 726, Greenville, VA 24440. VNPS Membership Chair, P.O. Box 844, Annandale, VA 22003 The deadline for the next issue is July 1 Membership dues are tax deductible in the amount they exceed $5. Contributions are tax deductible in accordance with IRS regulations.

May 1996 Page 7 - Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society • DNH- (Continued from page 1) space adjoining DGIF. DNH works becomes involved in this kind of ef¬ bill. At the 11th hour before the Gen¬ almost entirely as a team and splitting fort. Hopefully, the need will not arise eral Assembly adjourned. Governor up that team approach by spreading again soon. George Allen prevailed upon a Repub¬ the personnel around the state would Most VNPS members think of our lican senator to reintroduce the bill to be very shortsighted and destroy the VNPS activities as those wonderful transfer DNH to DGIF. Fortunately, remarkable results already accom¬ hours spent enjoying our native flora the senator was unable to garner plished by the Division. Remember, and discovering ones new to us. Yet, enough support for the bill and did this is the division selected in 1994 as as stated in the VNPS motto "Conserv¬ not reintroduce it. the most effective natural heritage ing Wild Flowers and Wild Places," The deadline for the Governor to program in the Western Hemisphere! conservation is part of our commit¬ sign or veto the funding bill was April Moving the Division to space ad¬ ment. There is no more important part 17—and he signed. Ordinarily, one joining DGIF would be an obvious de¬ of Virginia state government for con¬ would expect this to be the end of the fiance of the General Assembly's servation than the Division of Natural story with a happy ending for DNH. wishes. Two studies were initiated by Heritage in the Department of Conser¬ That, however, is not the case. The the 1996 General Assembly. One is a vation and Recreation. Governor and his Secretary of Natu¬ study by the Joint Legislative Audit and Ted Scott ral Resources, Becky Norton Dunlop, Review Commission (JLARC) concern¬ Conservation Chair are still tinkering with the Department ing the pros and cons of streamlining Scott wins stewardship award of Conservation and Recreation. and reorganizing the Natural Resources For the first time in history, the Secretariat. The second is "A Study for In honor of his tireless conserva¬ General Assembly took the unusual the Future of Virginia's Environment" tion work, Virginia Native Plant Soci¬ step of passing legislation to prevent by a committee consisting of selected ety Conservation Chair Ted Scott has the transfer of DNH to DGIF through members of the General Assembly and been presented "The Stewardship administrative procedures initiated by six citizen members. It is hoped that Award" by The Nature Conservancy. Governor Allen and Secretary Dunlop. these two studies will finally stabilize Presented during the group's an¬ But, Allen and Dunlop have recently the organization of DNH and DCR in a nual meeting at Montpelier in April, moved a section of the Division of way that is favorable to their effective Scott was given the state-wide State Parks to another part of DCR and operation. award in recognition of his "excep¬ are continuing to further ignore the di¬ As one can well imagine the threats tional ethic of land stewardship" and rective of the General Assembly. in the last few months to their organi¬ "service to conservation in Virginia." Rumors continue regarding the zation and even their very existence has Scott has been relentless in his possibility of DNH being split up and been devastating to the staff moral of efforts to combat the devastating ef¬ portions of it dispersed around the these agencies. As stated in the Janu¬ fects of invasive exotic plants on the state or being moved physically to ary Bulletin article, VNPS infrequently native plant population.

Non-Profit Organization t IBRARY U.S. Postage PAID MAY 2 0 1996 PERMIT NO. 347 Virginia Native Plant Society Springfield, VA P.O. Box 844 Annandale, VA 22003 NEW YORK -JOTANICAL GARDEN

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w Printed on recycled paper L'/SI August 1996 .15, No. 4 S

A publication of the VIRGINIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY Conserving wild flowers and wild places Zuni offers rare look at historic native tree habitat

Wisps of smoke drifted over the ture of the sap enough to kill under¬ eastern Virginia was exhaustive. It blackened remains of shrubs, ground portions. The longleaf trees commenced in 1933 and covered 14 branches and logs. On a few surviv¬ themselves are scorched up most of seasons, spanning the years of his ing blueberry shrubs hung clusters the bole and some have brown life from around the age of 60 to 73. of charred berries, frozen in time by needles in the crown. He published more than 1,200 pages flames. On May 11,1985, a 319-acre tract of botanical literature on Virginia, mostly centered on the area south of the James River, from the coast in¬ land to Brunswick County. His ex¬ ploration led him to the heart of the Zuni Pine Barrens. On a warm July evening in 1936, three botanists and an entomologist became lost on the last day of a col¬ lecting trip in that area. Fernald wrote of that day: "The obvious way home for Yesterday, before the fire, the of land was donated to Old Domin¬ most normal individuals was via dense understory of huckleberries ion University by Union Camp Cor¬ Courtland, 10 miles away, thence by made the ground surface look flat poration through The Nature Con¬ the very familiar Jerusalem Plant and uniform. The burn exposed all servancy. Included on this property Road; but, having set our faces this the variation of the ground's surface are unique plant communities and last day in another direction, we with the starkness of a black-and- some of the rarest species in the state could not tolerate further anticlimax white combat photo. A sweet tur¬ of Virginia. Most important are and defeat. Consequently we chose pentine-like odor permeated the air, those communities with longleaf to drive after dark by a dirt road a fragrance that can only come from pine (Finns palustris), the tree that northward to Zuni, a back road that longleaf pine. built Tidewater Virginia. Because of (See Pine barrens, page 4) The fire had been hot, just as we its high resin content, the longleaf had hoped for with this first grow¬ was the only species of pine regu¬ ing season burn in several years at larly used for naval stores. What is Inside this issue the Blackwater Ecologic Preserve also unique is the documented ex¬ (BEP), historically known as the ploration of the area by botanists Zuni Pine Barrens. Only a growing from Harvard University led by Slate of candidates...Insert season burn controls shrubs on the Merritt Lyndon Fernald. Few natu¬ Cultivating berries...Page 5 forest floor where they form such a ral areas were studied 60 years ago dense stand that many of the rare, with the intensity of the Harvard Annual meeting ...Page 6 sun-loving plants are out competed. study. VNPS field trip...Page 8 A summer fire raises the tempera- Fernald's exploration of south¬ . Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society

VNPS Fiscal Year 1995 From the President Summary Income Statement There are many exciting VNPS happenings across the state. Our new Year-to-Date VNPS educational display unit is currently in production and will be on For the period ending Oct. 31, 1995 display at the Annual Meeting. The accomplishment of this goal has been Income made possible by the generous contributions of many chapters and individuals. EARNED INCOME Many thanks to each of you, your support this year has been truly outstanding. Other earned income $13,441 I hope everyone is enjoying the ever-changing native plant landscape. TOTAL EARNED INCOME $13.441 The roadsides out in the country where I live constantly reveal many old BUSINESS INCOME friends and an occasional surprise! The lack of honey bees, however, both¬ Sales $5,097 ers me. I understand that a mite and severe cold have seriously depleted Fees $7,822 our wild bee population. I hope this does not offer serious pollination prob¬ Other income/business $ 891 lems for our native plants. TOTAL BUSINESS INCOME $13.810 As our Annual Meeting rapidly approaches, I hope everyone is mak¬ UNCLASSIFIED INCOME ing plans to attend. This meeting, hosted by the Shenandoah Chapter, Unclassified income $3,067 should be very exciting. If you have not purchased raffle tickets for the TOTAL UNCLASSIFIED INCOME $3.067 wall hanging, you will certainly want to do so immediately. There will be TOTAL INCOME $30.318 tickets for sale at the meeting right up to the time of the drawing. The EXPENSES VNPS board members had the opportunity to view the actual wall hang¬ JOB RELATED EXPENSES ing at the June board meeting. Believe me, this piece is a work of art that Other job related expenses $1,598 no photograph can accurately depict. TOTAL JOB RELATED EXPENSES $1.598 VNPS Wildflower of the Year T-shirts will also be on sale at the meet¬ OTHER EXPENSES ing. As the year of the trillium nears its end, I'm sure you will want to Education expenses $13,891 purchase one. I'm looking forward to seeing you at Ingleside Resort in TOTAL OTHER EXPENSES $13.891 Staunton in September. BUSINESS EXPENSES Your President, Frank Coffey Office Exp./Business $12,095 TOTAL BUSINESS EXPENSES $12.095 TOTAL EXPENSES $27.584 NET INCOME $2.736

SUMMARY BALANCE SHEET ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS Checking accounts $13,244 Savings accounts $12,000 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS $25.244 MARKETABLE INVESTMENTS Common Stocks $253 TOTAL MARKETABLE INVEST. $253 TOTAL ASSETS $25,497

LIABILITIES CURRENT LIABILITIES Accounts payable $131 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITES $131 A summer scene highlighting some of our native friends. Illustration by LONG-TERM LIABILITIES VNPS artist Barbara Stewart. Other long-term liabilities $3,740 To The Board of Directors of the Virginia generally accepted auditing standards. In my TOTAL LONG-TERM LIABILITIES $3.740 Native Plant Society: 1 have audited the ac¬ opinion, the financial statements referred to UNCLASSIFIED LIABILITIES companying fund balance of the Virginia Na¬ at right present fairly, in all material respects, tive Plant Society as of October 31, 1995, and the financial position of the Virginia Native Unclassified liabilities $4,470 the related statement of income for the year Plant Society as of October 31, 1995, and the TOTAL UNCLASSIFIED LIABILITIES $4.470 then ended. These financial statements are results of its operations for the year then TOTAL LIABILITIES $8.341 the responsibility of the organization's man¬ ended in conformity with generally accepted EQUITY agement. My responsibility is to express an accounting principles. opinion on these financial statements based June 17, 1996 TOTAL NET WORTH $17.155 on my audit. Robert K. Hersh, C.P.A. TOTAL LIABILITIES&NET WORTH $25.496 I conducted my audit in accordance with 3213 N. John Marshall Drive Arlington, Virginia 22207 Page 2 August 1996 • Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society

Chapter News. Pocahontas plant surveys John Clayton finds diversity at Sandy Bottom The Pocahontas Chapter has The John Clayton Chapter of the Families with the largest num¬ been conducting a number of plant Virginia Native Plant Society has re¬ ber of species in the study are surveys. At the May meeting, the cently completed a 16-month study Asteraceae with 51 species, Poaceae group conducted a plant survey at of the vascular flora of the area des¬ with 37, Fabaceae with 28, and Henrico County's Three Lakes Park. ignated as Sandy Bottom Nature Cyperaceae with 22. The park is located in northern Park within the city of Hampton. The Voucher specimens of the flora Henrico County. During the summer, study revealed that the area was one will be placed in the herbarium of chapter members have been meeting of great plant diversity, but also one the College of William and Mary in and conducting surveys of other of great disturbance. Williamsburg. Other voucher speci¬ parks within their membership area. The survey showed 413 different mens exist but are in need of fur¬ Orchids rescued from site taxa within 101 plant families and 266 ther evaluation before a positive The Potowmack Chapter held an different genera. Three hundred and identification can be determined. early June walk at Suitland Bog in nine plants (74.8 percent) in the study Sources for plant identification Maryland. Trip leader, Lisa Bier- were native and 104 plants (25.2 per¬ and plant taxonomy were Vascu¬ Garrett, who is the bog's caretaker, cent) were introduced. Eighty-five lar Flora of the Carolinas and Atlas showed the group several carnivo¬ plants (20.6 percent) were records for of the Virginia Flora. rous plants such as pitcher plant, Hampton. Potowmack plant sale some sundews, and such rarities as Piedmont officer pens column The Potowmack Chapter of the rose pogonias. Virginia Native Plant Society has Several members of the group The Botany Chair of the Pied¬ scheduled a fall plant sale for Septem¬ then traveled to nearby Andrews Air mont Chapter, John Trott, has a new ber 14. The group maintains propaga¬ Force Base to rescue some native or¬ column in the Fauquier Times-Demo- tion beds at Green Spring Gardens Park chids and other plants from a con¬ crat. His column is titled "The Vir¬ in order to make these sales successful. struction site on the base. Thirteen ginia Naturalist." Trott is also a fre¬ Potowmack's spring extravaganza saw pink lady-slippers were moved from quent contributor to The Leaflet, the over 1,400 plants sold, a record-break¬ the threatened site to a protected area newsletter of the Piedmont Chapter. ing success. For more information on in Suitland Bog. Several trailing ar¬ the propagation beds and the plant butus and a few more common plants Nezv signs at Thompson sales, contact Gerry Pratt at 703-323-1094. were also rescued. Visitors who came to view the tril- Progress for native flora seen at Roosevelt Island lium at Thompson Wildlife Manage¬ In April the Potowmack Chap¬ the group had pulled out the ment Area this year were guided by ter joined with the United States Na¬ invasive English ivy, included more six new signs identifying the site as a tional Park Service to conduct a diversity of native flora. There was VNPS registry site and urging protec¬ plant survey on Roosevelt Island, more diversity in the pulled areas tion of the wildflowers. located in the middle of the Potomac than in the areas where ivy had sim¬ The Virginia Department of Game River. As expected, the areas where ply been cut. and Inland Fisheries provided the metal signs and directional arrows, which were posted at strategic points on the path, by Carrie Blair, Piedmont Chap¬ PLANT PUZZLE ter president, and John Fry, chapter trea¬ surer. Mary Roessel, Connie Fry and Can you identify this wildflower? Unless you think you recog¬ John Fry had earlier walked the trail and nize the description of the plant, then use the keys found in a wild¬ selected the sign locations. flower guide such as Newcomb's Wildflower Guide. Once you think you Chapter holds summer picnic know what it is, then look for the answer on page 8. However, this one should be easy! (Puzzle by Neal Fletcher) Potowmack Chapter held a potluck picnic in June at Green Spring Gardens Spring blooming herb with only three whorled leaves. Park. The meal was followed by a tour The large single, showy flower is funnel-shaped at the of the propagation beds given by Propa¬ base then flaring outward from the middle. The flower gation Chair Gerry Pratt. The beds pro¬ is white, turning pink as it ages. The three petals are 1 to vide the vast majority of the plants of¬ 1 1/2 inches long. The plant is found growing in rich fered for sale. A tour of the chapter's native plant trail was also conducted by woods to a height ranging from 6 to 18 inches. Good luck! the intern being sponsored by the chapter. August 1996 .. ..- - Page 3 _i- . — Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society - ... Pine barrens have important place in history

(Continued from page 1) state record plants from this specific "lightwood," was carried out on a | was destined on our next two trips location, seven of them in one day. small scale from this time until to be our most used artery through In all, Fernald recorded dozens of around 1850. Customs records still the country. Near Walters we sud¬ rare species from what is now BEP on file in the British Public Records denly realized that we were passing and the surrounding area. These rare Office from ports around the Chesa¬ through as beautiful and unspoiled plants are part of a guild associated peake Bay (Norfolk, Hampton, pineland as we had anywhere met. with longleaf pine. As longleaf Yorktown) list barrels of naval stores It was dark, but, getting out to in¬ stands are destroyed, so were the as one of the most common exports vestigate, we promptly walked into habitats of these organisms. from the colony from the late 1600s a carpet of the tropical Crotalaria According to experts, the disap¬ until the Revolution. In a report to rotundifolia [=C. angulata], here at its pearance of longleaf pine from Vir¬ the Lords of Trade, William Gooch, northern limit. Obviously the region ginia can be summarized as the con¬ Governor of Virginia from 1727-1749, must be explored on the next trip." sequence of the cumulative effects listed an annual export of 10,000 bar¬ Fernald and friends returned on following activities over 350 years of rels of pitch and tar. Despite its im¬ August 22 and he noted: "The thin European civilization. These detri¬ portance in Colonial Virginia, little woods of Pinus taeda and Quercus mental activities included: 1. The in¬ effort has been made to preserve laevis Walt. (Q. catesbaei Michx.) were troduction of feral hogs which con¬ longleaf habitat. carpeted with white sand, with a sumed pine mast and the grass stage In addition to the longleaf com¬ dense thicket of the usual shrubs of seedlings, eliminating pine repro¬ munities, the preserve has an amaz¬ sandy woods, but wherever there duction; 2. Small-scale removal of ing diversity of other plant commu¬ was an opening exciting herbs were mature trees for lumber; 3. Destruc¬ nities in its 319-acre confines, includ¬ growing. Carphephorus bellidifolius tion of mature trees for turpentine. ing pocosins, river bluff, cypress abounded and on the more open This continued from the colonial era swamp, old field, and riverine. sands Euphorbia ipecacuanhae until the 1840s when longleaf pine I am writing this at the Joseph W. occurred....I was happy to collect stands were exhausted; 4. Removal Jones Ecological Research Center in these plants, which seemed interest¬ of most of the remaining trees for southwest Georgia in one of the fin¬ ing to me; but, while I was thus lumber in the mid-19th century; 5. est remaining longleaf pine stands. ( waisting time. Long shouted 'Here's Elimination of habitat as a conse¬ Our research here involves Pyxie' and Griscom replied 'Here's quence of modern fire suppression, chaffseed, Schwalbea americana, a fed¬ another Liatris-like thing; and, before and 6. Removal of stands established erally endangered species associated I could reach either of them, there in the late 19th and early 20th cen¬ with longleaf and, like its cohort, came the report: ‘Seymeria cassioides tury. The last stand was removed dependent on frequent burning. again.' And so it went. We had from the city of Suffolk around 1979. (Chaffseed was last seen in Virginia stumbled into what we had sought Perhaps because it was over¬ by Fernald in the 1930s and is as¬ for four years, a real unspoiled pine shadowed by tobacco production, sumed extirpated in the state). The barren in Virginia. Pyxidanthera perhaps because the industry ran its trees here are majestic, widespread barbulata literally carpeted the course here before extensive record mature trees creating a park-like ground in many areas, at the first keeping, the extent of naval stores landscape. Several species occur station discovered between southern production (tar, pitch, turpentine, both at BEP and here, including New Jersey and North Carolina; and rosin) in Virginia is not gener¬ stinging nettle (Cnidoscolus Carphephorus tomentosus (Michx.) T. ally appreciated. Enough glimpses stimulosus), bracken and sassafras. In & G. was a second species of a ge¬ of the past can be gleaned, though addition, many genera have repre¬ nus, which, two days before, had widely scattered through the histori¬ sentatives in both places—fire de¬ been 'new to Virginia,' C. tomentosus cal literature, to understand the uti¬ pendent pawpaws (the Virginia spe¬ not represented in the Gray Her¬ lization and eventual near extirpa¬ cies is Asimina parviflora), hollies, and barium from north of Bladen County tion of the species from the state. confusingly large numbers of com¬ in southwestern North Carolina; John Smith's settlement in Vir¬ posites and legumes. So, as I look Seymeria cassioides already found ginia was largely intended as a com¬ through the seemingly endless acres with Schwalbea americana in mercial venture, and experimental of longleaf, I have a vision of what Greensville County, was here very "...tryalls of Pitch, Tarre...." etc. were we can expect to see at BEP in 50 abundant; its recorded northern lim¬ made the first season, with the first years. What is both satisfying and its otherwise in eastern and south¬ export of several dozen barrels challenging is knowing that this tract . eastern North Carolina." shipped to England in 1608. Produc¬ is preserved, but that we have the re- ^ So ended a sterling day of col¬ tion of these essential commodities, sponsibility of maintenance and, lecting in the Zuni Pine Barrens. The primarily by burning tar kilns of col¬ even more difficult, restoration of botanists were rewarded with nine lected, dead longleaf pine (See Blackzvater, page 6) Page 4 August 1996 Virginia Native Plant Society Slate of Candidates

The following slate of candidates is proposed by the 1996 VNPS Nominating Committee to replace officers, standing committee chairs, directors-at-large, and members-at-large of the Nominating Committee whose terms expire on October 31,1996, and to fill existing vacancies in other classes. Class of 1997 BOTANY CHAIR - Stan Shetler, Potowmack Chapter. PUBLIC RELATIONS CHAIR - Alonso Abugattas, Stan, who holds a doctorate degree, is Curator of Potowmack Chapter. A naturalist for Long Branch Park Botany, Emeritus at the U.S. Museum of Natural His¬ in Arlington County, Alonso also works as a natural¬ tory. He is also director on the board of the Audubon ist at Fairfax County’s River Bend. He is currently his Naturalist Society. chapter's vice-president and program chair.

Class of 1999 REGISTRY CHAIR - Boleyn Dale, John Clayton Chap¬ SECOND VICE-PRESIDENT - John Fry, Piedmont ter. Boleyn is the registry chair for her chapter and a Chapter. John has served as chapter treasurer and has volunteer steward for DCR-Natural Heritage Program been a chapter representative to the VNPS board. An at Bethel Beach, a natural area preserve. economist with a Ph.D. from University of Texas, he taught at the University of Houston and retired from DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE - James Bruce, Pocahontas the Center for Naval Analysis. Chapter. James has completed a term as a VNPS Di- rector-at-Large. He is a Virginia Nursery Association EDUCATION CHAIR - Effie Fox, Piedmont Chapter. member and owner of Hanover Farm nursery in Effie has just completed one year as VNPS education Rockville, Virginia. His nursery specializes in ground chair and served six years on Piedmont's Board as Edu¬ covers. cation Chair. She is the Environmental Education Coor¬ dinator at the Fauquier Outdoor Lab, the county's envi¬ DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE - Faith Campbell, ronmental and natural history resource center. Potowmack Chapter. Faith, who has a doctorate de¬ gree, is executive secretary of the Exotic Pest Plant CONSERVATION CHAIR - Nicky Staunton, Prince Council. She has an 18-year-career in plant conserva¬ William Wildflower Society. Nicky is completing a term tion issues at national and international levels. She pre¬ as VNPS Second Vice-President and served two terms viously served as VNPS Conservation Chair. as VNPS President. She is a charter member of the so¬ ciety. 1997 Nominating Committee (One Year Term) - Reba Greer (Director-At-Large/Nominating Committee MEMBERSHIP CHAIR - Phoebe White, Piedmont Chair 1996); Bob Eubank (VNPS 1st Vice-President/ Chapter. Phoebe has been an active member of VNPS Nominating committee 1996); Ted Scott (Conservation since its inception and has served as membership chair Chair); Ann Regn (Nominating Committee member since 1982. She is currently the recording secretary for and past chair); Sylvia Sterling (Clayton Chapter Mem¬ the Piedmont Chapter. bership Chair).

FUND RAISING CHAIR - Currently open. I-1 -, PROXY, 1996 VNPS ANNUAL MEETING j PROXY, 1996 VNPS ANNUAL MEETING

I hereby authorize the Corresponding Secretary I hereby authorize the Corresponding Secretary to cast my vote for the slate of candidates pro¬ to cast my vote for the slate of candidates pro¬ posed by the Nominating Committee posed by the Nominating Committee

Signe d_ Signed_ Address_ Address_

Return by September 13 to: Return by September 13 to: Corresponding Secretary, VNPS Corresponding Secretary, VNPS P.O. Box 844 P.O. Box 844 Annandale, VA 22003 Annandale, VA 22003 L J Easy mailer: Fold this page in half affix postage and drop in the mail. Your vote helps us reach our quorum for the Annual Meeting. £OOZZ VA 'siepueuuy ffS *og Od Xppog 4uej j aApejsj biuiSjia Xjepjoag Suipuodsajjo^

3J3l| (llUBlS 0S£ xijjv Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society Huckleberries, blueberries show great diversity at BEP The heath family (Ericaceae) is one of the most di¬ species ingested by cows produced bad tasting milk. verse at the Zuni Pine Barrens, now known as the The choicest edible blueberry is V. corymbosum, high- Blackwater Ecologic Preserve. This may be because the bush blueberry, one of the important species in breed¬ Ericaceae has an especially well developed system of ing commercial blueberries. Beautiful blue berries mychorrhizae, a fungal-plant relationship that allows the hang in luscious clusters—YUM! plant to obtain minerals in a sand soil where minerals Elliott's blueberry, V. elliotti (considered by some are often unobtainable. Of the almost dozen genera botanists to be conspecific with highbush blueberry) (Zenobia has not been seen for 60 years), blueberries (ge¬ is at its northern limit at the preserve. Its dark, al¬ nus Vaccinium) and huckleberries (genus Gaylussacia) most black berries are produced in small numbers, have the greatest diversity but have a pleasant taste. Is there a difference between blueberries and huck¬ Sparkleberry, V. arboreum, also has blackish ber¬ leberries? Only if you look carefully The underside of ries. Vaccinium vacillans and V. tenellum are small the huckleberry leaf is covered with honey colored, glis¬ shrubs with edible but negligible fruits. Not all "blue¬ tening dots. These produce a distinct fragrance on a hot berries" are blue. Deerberry, V. stamineum, has green day, a suitable ethereal tribute to Gay Lussac, the French berries when ripe. Nor are all Vaccinium species physicist who is honored in the genus name. shrubs. Some are vines like the creeping blueberry, V. Late April or early May is the best time to see these crassifolium. Like its relative the cranberry, it is a low, in flower. Some, like the deerberry, produce attractive ground-hugging vine found in only one site at the masses of flowers. Others are more discreet. All have at¬ preserve-in a longleaf pine stand. Creeping blueberry tractive urn or bell-shaped white or pinkish flowers. was only discovered at the preserve a few years ago Some of the blueberries are adapted to insect sonication in a burned area. This is remarkable as it is one of the in which the animal rapidly beats its wings to produce few indigenous species not recorded by Fernald in his vibrations to shake pollen. detailed floristic studies of the 1930s. The fruit of this Around the Fourth of July, when the weather is hot berry is sweet, juicy, but insipid. and sultry, blueberries, huckleberries, and chiggers are The not-so-barren Zuni Pine Barrens has one of abundant. Fruits of huckleberries are technically not ber¬ the largest assortments of blueberries and huckleber¬ ries but pyrenes in which the outer covering of the seed ries in the Middle Atlantic states. In fact, breeders of is actually derived from the fruit. They are usually black. commercial berries have visited the preserve to col¬ I find them more flavorful than blueberries. lect genetic stock. This is just one more reason to main¬ Most abundant is black huckleberry, Gaylussacia tain and restore areas like the preserve. baccata. The dwarf huckleberry, G. dumosa, has tasty fruits Lytton J. Musselman but produces in small numbers. Dangleberry, G. frondosa, has fruits similar to black huckleberry. But it is the blueberries and their relatives that are most diverse and abundant at the preserve! Vaccinium is probably derived from the Latin word for cow (as are the words vaccine and vaccination) because European

Vaccinium stamineum, below, Gaylussacia baccata, right, Vaccinium corymbosum, far right. Illustrations by Nicky Staunton.

August 1996 Page 5 .- Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society ■ — For Wildflower Gardeners Blueberries, huckleberries complement natural landscape In his book. Growing & Propagat¬ but was reintroduced through the ef¬ ganic-rich, acid (pH 4.5-5.5) soil that is ing Showy Native Woody Plants, Richard forts of the Arnold Arboretum. Dirr moist yet well-drained and full sun to E. Bir says box huckleberry (Gaylussacia also mentions the stand of box huckle¬ partial shade. At least two varieties brachycera) is the best species for orna¬ berry in central Pennsylvania that cov¬ should be planted for best fruiting if mental purposes. This mountain spe¬ ers 300 acres and is a mile long! It has you are growing the berries for human cies is the rarest of the four huckleber¬ been reported that this is single plant consumption. Gardeners should check ries occurring in Virginia. Six western that is over 12,000 years old, though these with the local extension service office counties, according to the Atlas of the claims may not be completely accurate. for the cultivars best suited to the lo¬ Virginia Flora, are part of its natural Unlike the relatively obscure box cality. Whether you plant the species range of Pennsylvania to Kentucky and huckleberry, numerous selections and or one or more cultivars won't matter Tennessee. varieties of the native highbush blue¬ so much if you are planting for birds Box huckleberry is an excellent berry (Vaccinium corymbosum) are avail¬ and other wildlife. Approximately 36 evergreen ground cover for tall rhodo¬ able for commercial growers and home species of birds, including jays, chicka¬ dendrons and mountain laurels. It gardeners. In addition to providing dees, catbirds, thrushes, robins, blue¬ grows 6 to 18 inches tall and spreads fruit for the table and for wildlife, high¬ birds, orioles, cardinals, towhees, spar¬ into large mats. Growing conditions bush blueberry can also be used as an rows and phoebes feed on blueberries. are the same as those of its taller rela¬ ornamental shrub for landscapes. Also available from nurseries are tives: acid, organic-rich, well-drained Growing 6 to 12 feet tall with an equal several cultivars of creeping blueberry soil and partial shade. Small white or spread, it is very attractive through the (V. crass ifolium). The best known is pinkish bell-shaped flowers appear in entire growing season. Abundant small 'Wells Delight,' an excellent evergreen May through early June followed by white bell-shaped flowers appear in ground cover that is heat and drought bluish berries that ripen in July and May just as the leaves are unfolding. tolerant. This and 'Bloodstone,' a culti- August. Glossy dark green leaves are Dark green foliage through the sum¬ var with larger leaves, were developed reddish in full sun and turn a deep mer is a good background for the fruit at the North Carolina State University Ar¬ bronze to reddish purple in winter. that ripens in July. Fall coloring is excel¬ boretum. Deerberry (V. stamineum), an Michael Dirr, author of Woody lent with foliage changing to combina¬ understory species common throughout Landscape Plants, says this rare native tions of yellow, bronze, orange and red. Virginia, is also available. was lost to American gardens for years Highbush blueberries need an or- Huckleberries and blueberries are fairly easily propagated by softwood •Blackwater and semi-hardwood cuttings taken (Continued from page 4) Directions to BEP from Nor¬ during the summer or fall. Nancy Arrington, Horticulture Chair one of the choicest natural areas in the folk are as follows: Take US 460 west Middle Atlantic states. across the Dismal Swamp; after cross¬ Annual Meeting reminder Like many natural areas, the ing the Nansemond River take the sec¬ Blackwater Ecologic Preserve is under¬ ond exit right (north) this is still 460. Remember, the annual meeting is scheduled for September 20-22 at the staffed (10 people) and underfunded Go north 8.9 miles to US 258 (there's a Ingleside Resort in Staunton, Room res¬ (zero dollars). Without the cooperation Dairy Queen at this corner); go 0.6 ervations must be received at Ingleside by miles south to State Route 60. Stay on and hard work of The Nature Conser¬ AugttSt.at vancy, Natural Heritage, and the De¬ winding 603 for 6.3 miles to the junc¬ Registration forms were included in partment of Forestry, no restoration tion of SR 614. The preserve is 0.6 miles the May issue of the Bulletin. Please fill work would be possible. No formal on the left; look for the "ODU blue" them out and send them soon. If you lost education or research programs are in steel posts. If you choose to go to the the form, duplicate the form from another member or get one by writing: Elizabeth place although many individuals and preserve from the village of Zuni, turn Kyger, President, Shenandoah Chapter, Rt. west on SR 644 for 0.1 miles (under groups visit throughout the year and 3, Bridgewater, VA 22812. several scientists are conducting re¬ the railway) to SR 614. Turn left Contrary to the registration form search there. The best times to view the (south); the preserve is 4.2 miles on the schedule, there is no silent auction. As the unusual flora are in the middle of April right (2.0 miles from the Zuni Presby¬ ONLY fund-raiseivaquilted wall hanging and the middle of September. The pre¬ terian training center). will be raffled. This is a beautiful piece of serve is open all the time. C>nly rules: needlework, containing applique designs no hunting, no camping,, and, ironically, Lytton J. Musselman, the author of the of each of the VNPS wild flowers, Please get a block of tickets from your chapter no fires! No collecting, of course. The two articles in this issue on the Zuni Pine Barrens, is professor of biological president and support this project. phone number for the preserve is 804- There is one change in the field trip sciences at Old Dominion University 683-3610 or 3595. Check for access dur¬ schedule.The Saturday field trip listed as No. ing the fall hunting season. and manager of Blackwater Ecologic 3 (Shale Barrens) will be Jed by Jay Shanes Preserve. who is very familiar with the barrens. Page 6 August 1996 —■ ~~~ Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society From Near and Far Native vascular plant species are counted West Virginia native plant society reorganized According to a study produced The West Virginia Native Plant nists, The Nature Conservancy and by staff members of the North Caro¬ Society has reorganized and is up the Virginia Division of Natural lina Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill, and running. The group's February Heritage to monitor a number of North Carolina, Virginia ranks 14th 1996 issue of Native Notes informs us rare vascular and non-vascular among a list of North American that a group of professional bota¬ plants. The May issue features a states and provinces for numbers of nists is working on a revision of profile of Meehania cordata, a di¬ native vascular plant species. Core and Strasbaugh's Flora of minutive member of the mint fam¬ Virginia has 2,320 species, while West Virginia. ily easily mistaken for a skullcap. California leads the list with 5,090. There is also a report on the ac¬ To find out what our neighbors At the other end of the spectrum, tivities of the West Virginia Natural are up to, write to WVNPS, Corre¬ Franklin in the Northwest Territory Heritage Program in cooperation sponding Secretary, P. O. Box 2755, has just 340 species. with college and university bota¬ Elkins, WV 26241 If you were wondering how some of Virginia's neighbors com¬ Maps of state's natural areas available pared, West Virginia has 1,730, Dela¬ Free, updated maps of the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fish¬ ware has 1,580, Maryland 2,040, Ten¬ eries wildlife management areas are available or will soon be available from nessee 2,110, and North Carolina has the Richmond headquarters as well as district and regional offices. 2,450 native vascular plant species. The first 10 maps of the 30 management areas include Amelia, Reduced mowing Ms advantages Chickahominy (Charles City), Phelps (Fauquier), Rapidan (Madison), The city of Minneapolis has re¬ Powhatan, Hardware River (Fluvanna), Clinch Mountain (Smyth/Russell/ duced its budget and increased its Tazewell/Washington), Goshen-Little North Mountain (Rockbridge/Au¬ natural areas at the same time. gusta), Briery Creek (Prince Edward), and Horsepen Lake (Buckingham). Faced with a budget shortfall, Maps of the other 20 areas as well as a complete guide to all of Virginia's the Minneapolis Park Board voted to wildlife management areas will be available this summer. not mow certain patches of land, Another free Virginia map is the scenic outdoor facilities map of the mostly along lakes and creeks, on state. Produced by the Virginia Department of Transportation, this map is hillsides and in little-used corners of designed to alert travelers to "Virginia's bounty of beauty, history, culture, parks. recreation and wildlife areas," according to a VDOT spokesperson. The results are areas which have Among the sites featured are Department of Game and Inland Fisheries wild¬ reverted to native grasses and wild- life management areas, hatcheries, lakes, national wildlife refuges, state natural flowers, and $200,000 in savings. areas and parks, and national forests and parks. Maps are free at state welcome centers, local and regional tourist offices, VDOT offices or by calling 1-800-825-6831. i-1 The Bulletin See the address label for your membership's expiration date. is published five times a year VNPS Membership/Renewal Form (Jan., March, May, August, Nov.) by Name(s) Virginia Native Plant Society Address P.O. Box 844, Annandale, VA City State Zip . 22003 (703) 368-9803 _Individual $15 _Family $25 _Student $10 _Patron $50 _Sustaining $100 _Life $400 Frank Coffey, President Nancy Sorrells, Editor Associate (group) $40; delegate Barbara Stewart, Artist To give a gift membership or join additional chapters: Enclose dues, name, address, and Original material contained in the Bulle¬ chapter. (Non-voting memberships in any other than your primary chapter are $5). tin may be reprinted, provided credit is given to the author, if named. Readers I wish to make an additional contribution to_VNPS_Chapter are invited to send letters, news items, in the amount of_$10_$25_$50_$100 $_ or original articles for the editor's con¬ _Check here if you do not wish your name _Check here if you do not wish sideration. Items should be typed or sent to be exchanged with similar organizations. to be listed in a chapter directory. on 3.5"disk in Wordperfect or Microsoft Word to the Editor, Rt. 2, Box 726, Green¬ Make check payable to VNPS and mail to: ville, VA 24440.

VNPS Membership Chair, P.O. Box 844, Annandale, VA 22003 The deadline for the next issue is Oct. 1 Membership dues are tax deductible in the amount they exceed $5 Contributions are tax deductible in accordance with IRS regulations * i_i August 1996 - Page 7 - ■■ — Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society .. = Celebrate fall with VNPS-sponsored field trip to state arboretum Members of the Virginia Native Plant will help celebrate the annual Arborfest WHAT? VNPS field trip to state ar¬ Society interested in touring The Or land event and tour more of the arboretum ( boretum E. White Arboretum at Blandy Experi¬ which should be showing its fine fall WHEN? Sunday, October 13,10:30 a.m. mental Farm, The State Arboretum of Vir¬ colors. Nobody will want to miss this WHERE? Blandy Experimental Farm, ginia should mark Sunday, October 13 on opportunity not only to visit our state The State Arboretum of Virginia their calendars. Admission is free, but do¬ arboretum at this special time of year, U.S. Rt. 50, east of Winchester nations are accepted and welcome. There but also to meet and greet new and old may be a small parking fee. boretum director, Dr. Ed Connor, will friends from all the chapters that form Everyone should meet at 10:30 a.m. give a special tour of the native plant the Virginia Native Plant Society. at the arboretum which is located on woodlands area that is currently under Such gatherings of members for pic¬ U.S. Rt. 50 in the Shenandoah Valley development. He will also outline fu¬ nics, field trips and annual meetings about nine miles east of Winchester. ture plans for the native plant meadow strengthen the thread that ties our chap¬ Bring a lunch for a picnic. The state ar- and wetland areas. After the picnic we ters together toward a common goal of conserving native plants and habitats. Unique approach to nature offered by book If you wish to join us on this field trip, please call Bob Eubank at 804-239- "Gather Ye Wild Things A Forager's Year Organized first by season and 9756 and leave a message if Bob is not by Susan Tyler Hitchcock, University then by the wild thing, readers are at home, or send him a note at 1162 Press of Virginia, paperback 1995. (First afforded a chance to learn how poke Timberlake Drive, Lynchburg, VA published in 1980 as hardback by Harper roots or kudzu roots are gathered and 24502. Let him know by September 15 & Row). ISBN 0-8139-1643-7. used. The beautifully drawn illustra¬ so the arboretum staff will know how This is a book for those who find tions by G.B. McIntosh complement many to expect.Those wishing to stay using wild things interesting from an the text and are a pleasure. longer than one day or to visit other author who resides in Charlottesville While we seldom—if ever—sug¬ areas in this part of the Valley may find and has taught both at Piedmont Com¬ gest collecting from the wild, the au¬ accommodations in Winchester which munity College and at Wintergreen's thor has written mostly about wild- is less than 10 miles away. Spring Wildflower Symposium. flowers and woody plants which are Bob Eubank Susan Hitchcock has organized her abundant, both native and non-indig- 1st Vice-President ^ information by season of availability. enous. I must say that reading of sug¬ Each wild thing's information includes gested collection of several invasive Plant puzzle answer its history, some lore, instructions for plants was most welcomed. Let's hope Although you were sure to fig¬ use, a note about medicinal use, and that kudzu powder for acid indiges¬ ure this one out, the answer is our even some craft projects. Green plants tion catches on! 1996 Virginia Native Plant Society are mentioned, as well as puffballs, mo¬ Nicky Staunton wildflower of the year, Trillium rels, and praying mantis egg cases. 2nd Vice President grandiflorum.

p o r PA,D Virginia Native Plant Society All b £FERf$9$0. 347 P.O. Box 844 Springfield, VA Annandale, VA 22003 NEW YORK botanical GARDEN / / THE NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDEN LIBRARY-SERIALS & EXCHANGE BRONX, NY 10458

Please note the expiration date on your mailing label and renew accordingly.

w Printed on recycled paper A publication of the VIRGINIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY Conserving wild flowers and wild places Grant insures rapid progress of native plant list

Using funds from a grant get for the project. Matching funds been completed in late October. Af¬ awarded earlier this spring, Virginia have been provided by all nine ter a review meeting with VNPS col¬ Native Plant Society under the di¬ VNPS Chapters, Department of laborators, the list will be revised rection of Conservation Chair Ted Conservation and Recreation-Divi¬ again according to the conclusions Scott, has made rapid progress in sion of Natural Heritage, Virginia reached as a result of the meeting. the development of a brochure list¬ Nurserymen's Association, Lewis In addition to the master list of ing beneficial native plants. Ginter Botanical Garden, and the plants, there will be three brochures In the May Bulletin, it was an¬ Virginia Chapter of the American printed, one for each of the three re¬ nounced that VNPS had applied to Society of Landscape Architects. gions of the state: Coastal, Pied¬ the National Fish and Wildlife Work on the project was com¬ mont, and Blue Ridge (mountain Foundation for a grant. The purpose menced almost immediately by and valley). Each of the three will list was to develop and print brochures Dustin Howarth, an intern in the only the plants native to the region. The creation of these lists and their publication is a project undertaken Organizations working in cooperation with VNPS as a result of recommendations and Virginia Nurserymen's Association requests from nurserymen and land¬ Natural Resources Conservation Service scape architects in the February 1995 meeting with the group of collabo¬ Department of Horticultu re at Virginia Tech rators mentioned above. Virginia Chapter of the American Association of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Landscape Architects a contributor of matching funds, will Lezvis Ginter Botanical Garden conduct a workshop upon the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries completion of the project to present The Nature Conservancy the results, along with explanations, elucidation, and discussion, to all in¬ Department of Conservation and Recreation terested parties. This is tentatively (See Project, page 8) listing native plants of Virginia that Division of Natural Heritage and a could be used in lieu of certain graduate student in horticulture at Inside this issue invasive alien plants for a variety of the University of Maryland. He has uses including horticulture, ben¬ almost completed a master list of efiting wildlife, animal forage, and plants, showing what is native in Mysterious quillworts conservation purposes. each of the state's three major geo¬ ...page 4 Several weeks after the article graphical areas. Each plant is also for the May Bulletin was written, categorized by three levels of re¬ notification was made that VNPS quired moisture and light. Fringe-tree secrets had indeed been awarded a grant of The list is also being refined ac¬ ...page 6 $5,200 as 40 percent of the total bud- cording to plant uses. This will have Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society From the President New VNPS Directors elected Congratulations to the Shenandoah Chapter for a great VNPS an¬ A remarkable 91 proxy votes nual meeting. The attendance was one of the best on record. If you were received for the VNPS Board were unable to attend, you missed a real treat. I've heard many good of Directors election at the 1996 an¬ comments about the fine field trips. It was truly wonderful to enjoy a nual meeting. Your VNPS Board of weekend with great iveather and beautiful mountain vistas in the Directors thanks each of you who returned your proxy. In addition, Shenandoah Valley. there was an unprecedented number Thanks to our members' support, our new display was seen for the of members present to vote with 121 first time. It speaks well for the Society and should continue to do so registrants for the annual meeting in for many years. / would like to extend a warm welcome to all incoming Staunton. Your new Directors are: John Fry, officers and board members and a special thank you to all those who 2nd Vice-President; Dr. Stan Shetler, continue to faithfully serve. The dedicated service and support of our Botany Chair; Nicky Staunton, Con¬ officers and board members make the many accomplishments of the servation Chair; Effie Fox, Education VNPS possible. Chair; Phoebe White, Membership Chair; Alonso Abugattas, Public Re¬ Your President, lations Chair; Boleyn Dale, Registry Frank Coffey Chair; James Bruce, Director-at-Large; Wildflower of the Year 1998 Dr. Faith Campbell, Director-at-Large. The Fund Raising Chair remains P.S. The selection process for the Wildflower of the Year 1998 is com¬ open. The 1997 nominating commit¬ plete and the results were announced at the annual meeting. The se¬ tee members are: Reba Greer, Bob lection for 1998 is Aquilegia canadensis, columbine. Chris Sacchi, Eubank, Ted Scott, Ann Regn, and outgoing Botany Chair, says in announcing this selection, that colum¬ Sylvia Sterling. In addition, Bob Eubank resigned his position as 1st bine is truly one of his favorites being both beautiful and exhibiting Vice-President and the Board ap¬ interesting biological traits. I must confess that it is also one of my pointed Ted Scott to that position for favorites and it should stimulate quite a lot of interest in 1998. a one-year term. Large numbers, good weather, plenty of plants greet annual meeting participants

The annual meeting was a to see Mother Nature's work in an The two evening lectures, both by smashing success because of the up-close and personal way. Bridgewater College biology profes¬ hard work, creativity, and fine par¬ Credit for much of the success sors, provided some thought-provok¬ ticipation of members from the host goes to the field trip leaders, Jenifer ing ideas. On Friday evening, Dr. Shenandoah Chapter according to Bradford, Jay Shaner, Diane L. Michael Hill took listeners on a Lib Kyger, president of the chapter. Holsinger, Michael Hill, Carroll winding journey through his own The hard work and months of plan¬ Lisle, Betty Rosson, Doris True, Anne explorations in the plant world in ning paid off in a record-breaking Nielsen, Vernon Garber, Mark order to pose the question "How 121 registrants, with 37 hailing from Gatewood, Jacob Kagey, Norlyn Native are the Natives." Saturday the Shenandoah Chapter. Bodkin and Nancy Sorrells. Two ar- night's talk, by Dr. Sarah Swank, The field trips, by foot, car and boretums, James Madison Univer¬ took the audience on a naturalist s bicycle, to many points in western sity and Blue Ridge Community Col¬ tour of Chile, unique in its ex¬ Virginia went off splendidly despite lege, a perennial garden center, shale tremes as it unravels, north to the fact that the area was visited by barrens, and several wetlands were south, the entire length of the "another" 100-year flood just two among those places visited during South American continent. weeks before the meeting. Hurri¬ what turned out to be a picture-per¬ Although the dollar amounts are cane Fran dumped up to 14 inches fect weekend. Some groups hunted not yet in, the quilt raffle was a fund¬ of rain on the region in just 12 hours for mushrooms, while others sought raising success. The handquilted and both Augusta and Rockingham out ferns or asters. wildflower wallhanging was won by Counties had the dubious honor of A word of thanks must also go Sandra Taylor of Staunton. A Barbara being declared federal disaster ar¬ to all the behind-the-scene planners Stewart print, donated by eas. Despite that, only one field trip who made the meeting a success, es¬ Shenandoah member Bonnie Hohn, was canceled and another rerouted. pecially Betty Rosson who chaired was also presented as a prize in a Those on other trips had the chance the planning committee. consolation raffle.

Page 2 November 1996 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society Fund-raising efforts transformed into VNPS exhibit

All of VNPS's efforts to raise funds for a display and colorful photograph of Asclepias tuberose with a unit paid off with the arrival of the new exhibit in fritillary butterfly. The VNPS message, "Education, time for our 14th annual meeting in Staunton. The Appreciation, Conservation," appears next to the Board of Directors is anxious for each chapter to be trillium photo. The open area of the display unit able to see and to use this wonderful tool for educa¬ has space for other additions. At the annual meet¬ tion about the Virginia Native Plant Society, our pro¬ ing this area was used to display our photogra¬ grams and Virginia's native plants. phy contest winners. The 1995 fund-raising effort which made the dis¬ The central portion of the display can be re¬ play possible was planned by Squire & Heartfield versed to access a blank leaf green background of Direct, Inc., of Oakton, Virginia. VNPS is especially fabric. This leaves more area for special photos or appreciative of Chip Heartfield, a partner in the firm. printed educational material. His company has generously given their services in The first exposure for the new display after its fund-raising to VNPS for several years. Chip is an unveiling at the annual meeting came at the Heart¬ enthusiastic native plant gardener and a member of land Forest Festival held in Farmville, Virginia. This the Prince William Wildflower Society Chapter of Virginia Department of Forestry event was an oppor¬ VNPS. Great "Hoorahs!" for Chip, Squire & tunity for foresters, timbermen and the general pub¬ Heartfield, and Mary Knowles, the account represen¬ lic to know the VNPS program. The display is being tative. They did such a great job. We are fortunate scheduled now for the end of 1996 and into 1997. If that the same group will be assisting VNPS again this you have questions about the display, call Frank year in our annual fund-raising efforts. Coffey or your board representative. This attractive Sincere appreciation is expressed to each of you display is expected to visually draw people from who had faith in our project and sent a donation. The across a meeting room. We hope you will see the ex¬ result is a competitively effective educational tool to be hibit often in your community. It will mean it is be¬ used in professional settings such as seminars, work¬ ing used, and is out there getting our message across shops and meetings. The display is impressive—8 feet rather than sitting around looking pretty. by 8 feet with bright leaf green fabric background. Thanks again to each of you who were generous The outstandingly beautiful Hal Horwitz photograph contributors with your gifts. Thanks also to Hal of Trillium grandiflorum at the G. Richard Thompson Horwitz, Frank Coffey and Squire & Heartfield. Ben¬ Wildlife Management Area is enlarged to 6 feet by 8 efits of your gifts are being returned many fold as VNPS feet and serves as the center attraction on the dis¬ grows through education, appreciation and conservation. play. On the upper left section is Frank Coffey's sharp Nicky Staunton, Conservation Chair

The State Arboretum of Virginia VNPS members explore Blandy meadows and history

On a warm, sunny autumn day, and future plans. monarchs, meadow fritillaries, hack- 25 members of VNPS gathered at The Evidence of Dr. Orland White's berry, question marks, cabbage, skip¬ Or land E. White Arboretum at earlier work is seen in the many ex¬ pers and sulphurs. Blandy Experimental Farm, The State otic cultivar species of trees and Many in the group were in¬ Arboretum of Virginia for a guided shrubs. The trip also revealed spired to speculate on how VNPS tour led by Director Dr. Ed Connor. some interesting granite-dolo- might find a way to be involved in Members from southeast and mitic outcroppings and huge our state arboretum; an idea that southwest Virginia joined northern hackberry trees. Much of the upland will be explored by the VNPS Virginia members in this northwest¬ meadows was matted with an under¬ Board of Directors. ern corner of Virginia near Winches¬ growth of Galium verum, and a small Before leaving, many members ter. The tour began with a stroll cluster of blooms greeted us. were able to visit with past VNPS through areas dedicated to becoming Dr. Connor told us that students president Mary Pockman, who has a native plant meadow and a native are collecting research data from led Friends of the State Arboretum. plant wetland. Then the pace picked plants in the meadows, thus ac¬ We picnicked under the nearby trees, | up with a hike across the meadows counting for some interesting col¬ visited the gift shop and, of course, and past a large pond. Dr. Connor de¬ lection devices that we saw. As a bo¬ checked out the bulb sale. tailed the history of the land, in¬ nus, there were many active butter¬ Nicky Staunton cluding current arboretum work flies working the fields including Conservation Chair

November 1996 .— Page 3 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society . Quillworts are a curiousity among native flora

strate. Leaves arise spirally from the CAM is characteristic of desert corm. The base of the leaf is swollen plants! Other quillworts grow as and tapers gradually to a tip, resem- submergents in lakes and rivers. bling a quill, hence the name How can you recognize these quiliwort. In cross section, four air furtive plants? Develop a "search chambers are evident. Each leaf has image" for them. I had been botaniz¬ the potential to produce a spo¬ ing in southeast Virginia for two de¬ rangium and is thus a sporophyll. cades before I became aware of Sporangia are either male, mi¬ them! They are the only wetland crosporangia, or female, megaspo¬ plants that have grass-like or rush¬ rangia. Above the sporangium is an like leaves that are whorled with intriguing structure called a ligule. leaves slightly twisted unlike rushes As the name implies, the ligule is a (species of Juncus) or spike-rushes tongue like appendage. Its function (species of Eleocharis), two genera remains a mystery, but biochemical with species often confused with research on European species has quillworts. Isoetes leaves have a shown that a plethora of compounds slight channel on the upper surface. is produced including amino acids, These features (whorled, twisted carbohydrates, and proteins. leaves with a channel) along with a The megaspores of Isoetes are the corm mean quillworts. largest in the Plant Kingdom, rang¬ Our work during the past six 1 cm ing from .5 mm to .8 mm in diam¬ years has centered on understanding Engelmann’s quiliwort eter. Positive determination requires the distribution of Virginia (Isoetes engelmannii) an examination of the ornamenta¬ quillworts, their ecology, hybridiza¬ tion, cytology, and systematics. The Furtive rather than curious may tion of the megaspore surface using following quillworts occur in Vir¬ be a better word to describe species a 20X lens. Microspores are only ginia (adapted from: "Quillworts of of the fern ally Isoetes, overlooked about a tenth as large and thus of Virginia," American Fern Journal and under appreciated members of little value in field determination. 84(2): 48-68, Musselman, L.J. and Virginia's aquatic flora. How furtive Sexual reproduction occurs after D.A. Knepper, 1994). are they? 1 was with a quiliwort spe¬ the megaspore is released from the cialist in one of the wonderful tidal sporangium and germinates to pro¬ (See Mysterious quillivorts, page 5) marshes of the Mattaponi River, duce the female reproductive struc¬ when he exclaimed, "How can you ture, the archegonium. The mi¬ tell Isoetes from any of these other crospore germinates to produce four plants?" This and my own experi¬ flagellated sperm--boy meets girl ence led me to the conclusion that and a little sporeling is produced. It quillworts are arguably the least is possible to find masses of studied and most cryptic members sporelings in the field, the season of our flora! depending on the species of Unlike their arborescent pro¬ quiliwort. But beyond this, we know genitors in coal age swamps, extant little of the courtship of these curi¬ species of quillworts are usually di¬ ous plants. minutive plants with the largest less All Isoetes are aquatic and can be than 18 inches tall. The plant has a divided into two large groups de¬ swollen base, variously known as a pending on their habitat preference. corm or rootstock. Bilobed in most Amphibious species spend part of Virginia species, this structure has their life in the water but later dry no clear parallels in any other fern out. In fact, some quillworts grow on or fern ally. Roots are produced in rock outcrops that become desic¬ the notch between the lobes. The cated in the summer. Growing in tips of the roots are bifurcate, each these places may explain why most resembling a tiny translucent tuning quillworts that have been studied fork. Continuous cell division in the have a peculiar kind of photosyn¬ corm occurs in such a manner as to thetic pathway called CAM (for bury the corm deeper in the sub¬ crassulacean acid metabolism).

Page 4 ■■ ■ ■ November 1996 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society Woodbridge Refuge represents an urban escape

The third year of plant inventory Eupatorium species. The rattlesnake- sulph urs and a butterscotch col¬ by Elaine Haug and Nicky Staunton, masters have gone to seed, promis¬ ored wooly bear caterpillar caught two members of the Prince William ing more plants next year. The the sunlight. Wildflower Society, is slowing down honeyvine fruit pods were still With an intention to return to at the Woodbridge Refuge now that bright green in October, with the visit the Ilex verticillata in several October is here. They have identified appearance of short, fat bananas. weeks when the leaves have fallen, more than 600 herbaceous and Groundsel-trees, with their silky another visit ended at this urban white blooms, were beginning to re¬ refuge of 600 acres and 16 vegeta¬ lease seeds to the wind. tive communities. The transfer of Looking down at the plants property exterior to the compound was nearly impossible on this fall buildings will occur in the near fu¬ day with a juvenile American bald ture and educational use of the facil¬ eagle as well as redtail hawks, a ity will grow. The Woodbridge Foun¬ female northern harrier, rough¬ dation, led by Jim Waggener, is ne¬ legged hawks and a kestrel whose gotiating with several universities woody plants. Even in October, hunting and soaring activities cap¬ to occupy the existing United States Catalpa ovntn was just identified on tured our attention. Migrating cor¬ Army buildings. the refuge shore of the Occoquan morants were resting on a nearby Be sure to put the Woodbridge Bay. Autumn blooming grasses island. Migrating warblers were Refuge on your visiting list when have replaced the Tripsacum plentiful and rusty wing black¬ you come to Washington, D C. in dactyloides. Patchwork colors from birds swarmed over the heads of 1997. It is located immediately off sweetgum, sassafras, sour gum, great blue herons fishing nearby. of U.S. Rt. 1 at Woodbridge, a few oaks, pawpaws, dogwoods and Butterflies (the summer butterfly miles from Washington with the virburnums form a backdrop for count yielded 35 species) and cat¬ rail system stations a few blocks golden grasses and an occasional erpillars showed activity: mon- away. For more information, call bloom of Bidens, Ageratum and archs, question marks and Nicky Staunton at 703-368-9803. •Mysterious quillworts quillwort) - Common on granite out¬ (Continued from page 4) crops in the Southeast, it is found at Isoetes acadiensis (Acadian only one site in Virginia. quillwort) - We recently documented Isoetes saccharata - Another species this species in freshwater tidal of freshwater tidal marshes, it has no marshes of the Mattaponi and accepted common name. It may be Pamunkey Rivers. Previously, it was related to I. hyemalis if not cospecific. known only from New England and A small, but dedicated group the Maritime Provinces of Canada. which calls itself "worters" has been Isoetes caroliniana (Carolina studying quillworts. Eight undergradu¬ quillwort) - Frequent throughout the ates, three graduate students and my¬ Appalachian Mountains in Virginia in self have fun stalking these furtive rivers, impoundments, bogs and pools. plants. We are growing all species of Isoetes engelmannu (Engelmann's Southeastern Isoetes successfully al¬ quillwort) - Named in honor of the though I. "virginica" and I. melanopoda founder of the Missouri Botanical Gar¬ are proving more difficult than the other den and early student of the genus, this found in one stream in the species which we simply put in a plas¬ quillwort is found throughout Virginia. Shenandoah mountains. tic container with sand and keep at Isoetes hyemalis (winter quillwort) Isoetes melanopoda (blackfooted room temperature. While thunder¬ - The common name is a bit mislead¬ quillwort) - Usually restricted to ously underwhelming, they make an in¬ ing as all of our species are potentially non-granitic rock outcrops, this is teresting addition to a garden. During evergreen, depending on availability the only species with weedy tenden¬ extreme cold weather, bring them in¬ of water. In fact, Isoetes is derived from cies. The illusive I. virginica is some¬ side. And, depending on the fishes' ap¬ words indicating an evergreen quality. times recognized as distinct al¬ petites, quillworts do well in fresh wa¬ Isoetes hyemalis is abundant in south¬ though our work indicates that it is ter aquaria. eastern Virginia along small streams. closely related to, if not cospecific Lytton }. Musselman is a professor Isoetes lacustris (lake quillwort) - with, the blackfooted quillwort. of biological sciences at Old Dominion This is a widespread northern species Isoetes piedmontana (Piedmont University. November 1996 = Page 5 : - = Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society For Wildflower Gardeners Unlocking the secret to fringe-tree berries

During our annual meeting, I spread—obviously the large shrub ever. I've never read that you should visited the Blue Ridge Community form! Fringe-tree can also be plant both a male and female fringe- College Arboretum with a group of trained to grow as a single-trunked tree (as is the case with hollies) in fellow VNPS members. The arbore¬ specimen and can get up to 20 to order to get berries. Also, a ione tum, begun in 1987, features mostly 25 feet tall. fringe-tree in my garden regularly native Virginia trees and shrubs The arboretum's fringe-tree was produces a few berries. growing in settings representing absolutely loaded with fruit though Further reading in Dirr's book Virginia's mountain, valley, pied¬ we had to hold back the outside fo¬ helps to explain. He writes that mont and coastal plain regions. The liage to see the clusters of dark blue, fringe-tree flowers can also be po¬ trip was led by Anne Nielson, the half-inch long, egg-shaped drupes. lygamous-dioecious which means arboretum's project director and asso¬ Fringe-tree's white, strap-like flow¬ having male and female flowers on ciate professor of biology at the col¬ ers are borne in May on wood pro¬ separate plants, but these plants can lege. Shenandoah Chapter members duced the previous season, and the also have perfect flowers (having Jacob Kagey and Lib Kyger are on the fruit is then concealed by the current both functional stamens and pistils). arboretum's steering committee. season's growth. Though we had Apparently plants can be all male, An especially handsome fringe- trouble seeing it, the several species all female, or predominately male or tree (Chionanthus virginicus), our of larger birds that relish the fruit female. 1997 wildflower of the year, attracted have no difficulty finding it. To be sure you are getting a fe¬ a lot of attention from our group. It If you want to grow-fringe tree male plant, you'll need to visit a was planted in the valley section of for its fruit as well as for its lovely nursery and check for berries in Au¬ the arboretum though fringe-tree flowers, how can you be sure you are gust or September. Then you'll have grows naturally throughout Virginia getting a female plant, and do you to decide if you want to be safe and and is a wonderful small tree or large need a male for pollination? In also choose a male plant or take a shrub for gardens in all regions of Manual of Woody Landscape Plants, chance and hope your female is only the state. Growing in full sun with Michale Dirr says fringe-trees are predominantly female. plenty of room to spread, it was ap¬ dioecious meaning male and female Nancy Arrington proximately 12 feet tall with an equal flowers are on separate plants. How- Horticulture Chair Bates' floral portrait takes top prize in VNPS contest Although the numbers were prize ribbons for her fringe-tree in the cultivated setting. Sally Mello re¬ small, the results were a big success wild photograph and her grand-prize ceived a participant ribbon for her in the VNFS 1996 Photography Con¬ floral portrait. Libbey Oliver of the fringe-tree in a cultivated setting. test. Carolyn Bates, a member of the John Clayton Chapter won a blue rib¬ The 1997 contest rules will be Blue Ridge Wildflower Society was bon for her fringe-tree in a cultivated listed in the January 1997 Bulletin. The the grand prize winner in this year's setting shot. subject will be "Virginia Native Plants contest which featured the fringe-tree A pair of honorable mention rib¬ Photographed in Virginia.” The prizes (Chionanthus virginicus) as the object bons went to Jan Gates of the South will be ribbons with a special grand of the photographers' attentions. Hampton Roads Chapter for her flo¬ prize and recognition as the Best Bates' photograph was a close-up ral portrait and her fringe-tree in a VNPS Photographer of 1997. floral portrait of the fringe-tree. She Natural landscaping seminar to be offered in December was awarded a pewter Jefferson cup. "It was sharp, well-composed, and The National Wildlife Federation and New Directions in the American Land¬ there were no distracting elements scape will present a seminar titled "Natural Landscaping: Inviting Nature Back to Your Property" on Saturday, December 7. The day-long seminar is for with the dark background," com¬ homeowners who would rather see a wildflower than a clipped hedge. mented contest judge Dr. Robert The symposium will explore ideas that reflect the beauty of the natural world Lyons. Lyons, professor and director in an easily managed, ecologically sound home environment. Topics to be dis¬ of the Virginia Tech Horticulture Gar¬ cussed include: Blending Horticulture, Design and Ecology; Natural and Cre¬ den in Blacksburg, deserves a round ated Water Gardens; Outstanding Native Plants; and a Japanese Approach to of thanks for his willingness to judge this American Landscapes. Noted designers and horticulturalists speaking include year's inaugural contest and to guide Judy Glattstein, Claire Sawyers and Larry Weaner. VNPS in establishing the contest rules. The program will run from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. with lunch included in the Bates also took home two first- $88 fee. For more information or to register, call 1-800-274-3478. Page 6 — - — .. ■ - ■ -...—- November 1996 New York Botanical Garden l "

Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society 3 5185 00345 5761

Chapter News. Pocahontas to design garden Potowmack propagation beds important project The Pocahontas Chapter has been asked to create a woodland na¬ The propagation beds of the Potowmack Chapter not only provide the tive plant garden on a nature trail at chapter with a good portion of its operating budget through spring and fall the J. Sargeant Reynolds Community plant sales, they also allow the chapter to assist in the spread of native plants College in the Richmond area. The through donations. trail has been created for the purpose This year, donations of native plants were made to: of acquainting walkers with the 1. Goodwin House, a not-for-profit retirement community which is es¬ beauty of nature. Chapter members tablishing a native plant trail on its grounds in Falls Church, Virginia. toured the site on the Parham Road 2. Riverbend Park, a part of the Fairfax County Park Authority, for its campus as part of their monthly project to restore a meadow habitat. meeting and then met to begin de¬ 3. Stephen Lloyd, an Eagle Scout candidate, who is landscaping part of signing the area. the grounds of St. Stephens United Methodist Church with native plants. Through sales and donations from the propagation beds, which are Grasses CAN be interesting maintained by the chapter in Green Spring Gardens Park, the Fairfax County Let's face it: a lot of people think Horticultural Center, Potowmack hopes to educate the citizens of the area grasses are kind of boring—hard to to the advantages of using native plants in the landscape. identify and not very interesting to For more information on the propagation beds, contact Gerry Pratt, 703- study. Piedmont Chapter's David Yost tackled that attitude head-on 323-1094. with a workshop on the wonders of John Clayton Chapter announces its "graduate" program Poaceae, the grass family. The John Clayton Chapter has attending chapter meetings, at¬ Approximately 30 eager partici¬ initiated the John Clayton Graduate tending field trips, serving as a pants, armed with microscopes, field Program in order to encourage field trip leader, serving as an of¬ guides and a number of samples, stud¬ members to attend chapter func¬ ficer or board member, being a ied this important (where would the tions and, at the same time, increase chapter representative at an event, human race be without cereal grains?) members' knowledge of native raising plants for plant sales and but overlooked group of plants. plants and their habitats. obtaining new members. Yost reviewed the specialized vo¬ Points will be awarded toward There will also be written exams cabulary of grass taxonomy and dis¬ a "final degree," and can be earned which will become more challeng¬ played native, naturalized and through both participation and writ¬ ing as members progress up the lad¬ invasive species, before the group took ten exams. Examples of events earn- der toward "graduation." The pro¬ to the fields at Archwood Meadow near The Plains for a hands-on look ing participation points include: gram was launched this fall. at the grasses around them. r ~\ The Bulletin See the address label for your membership’s expiration date. is published five times a year VNPS Membership/Renewal Form (Jan., March, May, August, Nov.) by

Name(s) Virginia Native Plant Society Address P.O. Box 844, Annandale, VA City State Zip . 22003 (703) 368-9803 _Individual $15 _Family $25 _Student $10 _Patron $50 _Sustaining $100 _Life $400 Frank Coffey, President Associate (group) $40; delegate Nancy Sorrells, Editor Barbara Stewart, Artist To give a gift membership or join additional chapters: Enclose dues, name, address, and Original material contained in the Bulle¬ chapter. (Non-voting memberships in any other than your primary chapter are $5). tin may be reprinted, provided credit is I wish to make an additional contribution to_VNFS_Chapter given to the author, if named. Readers are invited to send letters, news items, in the amount of_$10_$25_$50_$100_$_ or original articles for the editor's con¬ _Check here if you do not wish your name _Check here if you do not wish sideration. Items should be typed or sent to be exchanged with similar organizations. to be listed in a chapter directory. on 3.5"disk in Wordperfect or Microsoft Word to the Editor, Rt. 2, Box 726, Green¬ Make check payable to VNPS and mail to: ville, VA 24440. VNPS Membership Chair, P.O. Box 844, Annandale, VA 22003 The deadline for the next issue is Dec. 1 Membership dues are tax deductible in the amount they exceed $5 Contributions are tax deductible in accordance with IRS regulations j November 1996 Page 7 Bulletin of the Virginia Native Plant Society

VNPS Wildflowers From Near and Far. of the Year Organization formed to restore estuary habitats 1998 - Columbine A new organization is calling for the richest Midwestern farmland. a national commitment to restore While programs exist to manage (Aquilegia canadensis) one million acres of habitat in estu¬ waterfowl and fish populations and 1997 - Fringe-tree aries around the nation, including the to improve water quality, there is Chesapeake Bay, according to an ar¬ (■Chionanthns virginicus) little money available to support ticle in the October 1996 Bay Journal. habitat restoration efforts. Even the 1996 - White trillium The group. Restore America's Chesapeake Bay Program currently (Trillium grandiflorum) Estuaries, is an alliance of eight re¬ has little money to support habitat gional environmental groups seek¬ restoration efforts. Lost habitats in¬ 1995 - New York ironweed ing to heighten the public’s aware¬ clude salt and freshwater marshes, (Vernonia novaboracensis) ness of the importance of estuaries grass beds, coastal forested wet¬ 1994 - Mountain laurel and to bring more focus on efforts lands, beaches, streamside areas, to improve habitats. tidal flats, shellfish beds and deltas. (.Kalmia latifolia) To that end, the organization in These habitats are vital to many spe¬ 1993 - Wild bergamot September announced plans to seek cies of plants, fish and other wildlife. legislation in the next session of Con¬ (Monarda fis t u losa) gress that sets a specific one-million- •Project acre restoration goal and commits 1992 - Butterfly weed (Continued from page 1) (Asclepias tuberosa) $100 million of funding annually to estuarine habitat creation. planned for late winter or early 1991 - Cardinal flower An estuary is defined as a semi- spring. Throughout this project, (.Lobelia cardinalis) enclosed body of water where fresh¬ VNPS partners in the Division of water empties into and mixes with Natural Heritage, Department of 1990 - Spring beauty saltwater from the ocean. Estuary is Conservation and Recreation have (Claytonia virginica) another name for bay, sound, harbor, played an important role. Without their substantial effort and expertise, 1989 - Virginia bluebell etc., but the key part of the defini¬ tion is the mixing of fresh and salt this project would most certainly (.Mertensia virginica) water. Estuaries are among the most never have been undertaken. productive natural systems on Earth, Ted Scott producing more food per acre than Past Conservation Chair

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