This is the Blue Ridge Parkway wildflower report for July 24. Wildflower blooms don’t go away when spring is past us here in the Blue Ridge. For many visitors the mid-summer blooms are just as special.

In Virginia, the staff around Rocky Knob and Mabry Mill are reporting some Rosebay Rhododendron, Day Lilies, Daisy Fleabane, Ox Eyed Daisy, Yarrow, Milkweed and the bright orange Butterfly Weed. These are the blooms that cover the meadows and the fields here in the high plateaus south of Roanoke. Coreopsis and Black Eyed Susan are also prominent and Turks Cap Lily is a new bloom that’s been spotted this week.

Further south across the state line into Doughton Park the Rosebay is still attractive but past it peak. Some folks there are reporting that this is the most profuse blooming of Rosebay that they’ve seen in years. Also look for Black Eyed Susan and Coreopsis, Queen Anne’s Lace, Black Cohosh and Hawkeye. At Linville Falls picnic area and along trails and along the river look for Yarrow, Queen Anne’s Lace, Phlox and Black Eyed Susan.

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