Here in the middle of July don’t think that wildflower blooms go away when spring is passed us. Here in the Blue Ridge for many visitors the mid-summer blooms are just as special.

Rosebay Rhododendron is still blooming in some areas this weekend, like Mabry Mill in Virginia, along with Ladies Thumb and Day Lily, Daisy Fleabane, Ox Eyed Daisy, Yarrow and the bright orange, Butterfly Weed also around Mabry Mill.

Jewel Weed may be seen on creek banks and in some soggy areas as well. Black Eyed Susan and Coreopsis have shown up around Mabry Mill as new arrivals this week. Look for Rosebay Rhododendron still blooming if you’re around the Blue Ridge Music Center this weekend.

In North Carolina, around the Cone Estate and the Price Park area many of the same species are being reported. These include St. John’s Wort, Jewel Weed, Speedwell, Tall Bellflower, Spiderwort, Fire Pink, Black Eyed Susan, still some Rosebay Rhododendron, Milkweed and the orange Turk’s Cap Lily.

If you’re hiking on the Tanawha Trail you’ll find Wintergreen and Indian Pipe, Oswego Tea, Jewel Weed and some more Rosebay Rhododendron. For folks who choose to enjoy the Linville Falls area this weekend they may see some Rosebays along with nice displays of Bee Balm in the picnic area.

At Crabtree Meadows, a little further south, you’ll find Yarrow and Queen’s Anne Lace, Phlox, Black Eyed Susan and Ox Eyed Daisy. Fire Pink and Red Clover are also prominent right now. St. John’s Wort is showy between Craggy Gardens and Asheville as you drive along there with some Phlox and Fire Pink showing as well.

It’s a busy time on the Parkway in July so watch out for those built in distractions like great views and wildlife, the extra traffic and bicyclists.

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.