This is the Blue Ridge Parkway wildflower report for May 14, 2009. May has arrived and this is traditionally the best month for viewing wildflowers along the Blue Ridge.

Trillium and Pink Azalea, along with a few Catawba Rhododendron are showing north of Roanoke up on the ridge tops. Fraser Magnolia, Pink and Flame Azalea and Fire Pink were reported near the Blue Ridge Music Center in Virginia.

Trillium may still be blooming nicely from Linville Falls to Crabtree Meadows. From the Boone and Blowing Rock area travelling south look for a few left over Dogwoods, some Fraser Magnolia and Sarvis as these are the most prominent blooming trees. Witch Hobble and Azalea, Speedwell and various types of violets are also out and Carolina Rhododendron is especially nice around Bear Den Overlook at milepost 323.

Bluets and Trout Lilies, Wake Robin and Trillium are still visible around the Moses Cone and Price Park areas and Mountain Laurel is pretty showy around Linville Falls.

Regular updates for color reports will be posted to our web site home page. You can also use the National Park Service information line at 828-298-0398 to keep informed of what’s being reported on the Parkway.

Have a safe Parkway visit! Enjoy the view, but watch the road.