This is the Blue Ridge Parkway spring wildflower report for the middle of June, 2008. Spring is a month of transition from spring blooms to a more summer look among the park wildflower population. Catawba Rhododendron is still showing in places along with Mountain Laurel, but both are waning except at higher elevations.
If you’re visiting the north end of the parkway at Humpback Rocks, look for many varieties of wildflowers being reported, including Poppies, Butter and Eggs, Deptford Pink, Yarrow, Lavender, and Oxide Daisy. Moving south toward the James River, visitors will find some Pinkster or Pink Azalea, Black-eyed Susan, Columbine, and some remaining Mountain Laurel.
Climbing the mountain over Apple Orchard, catch the views of Wild Hydrangea, Mountain Laurel, day lilies, and Goldenrod. Further south, near the North Carolina Virginia state line, around the Blue Ridge Music Center, you’ll find Yarrow, Chicory, Queen Anne’s Lace, Sourwood, Mountain Laurel, and some remaining Fire Pink. Further south, in the Doughton park area, many of the same species are being reported, along with some Golden Ragwort, Spiderwort, and upland Aster.
From Linville Falls through the Gillespie Gap and Crabtree Meadows area, Rosebay Rhododendron is now showing. These are the larger white blossom varieties seen this time of year. Mountain Laurel is also in bloom along with Catawba Rhododendron and smaller ground varieties such as Fire Pink, Rural Loosestrife, Indian Cucumber, Star Chickweed, and Jewel Weed.
Enjoy your visit, and as we always remind visitors, enjoy the view but watch the road.
Weekly updates at 828-298-0398 will keep you informed of what’s being reported throughout the Parkway.
Have a safe parkway visit! Enjoy the view, but watch the road.