07/16/2026
It was time to beat the heat so we headed to the mountains of southwest Virginia.
Summer is the perfect time to get out and explore nature.
Here are some of the native plants of the Jefferson National Forest region plus a few visitors in our campground and some scenic views.
Wine raspberry- offers delectable red berries for wildlife and humans alike. People use these ripe berries for sauce, jelly, or even a robust wine. Its usefulness extends to its tannin-rich leaves, commonly used to soften leather for quality upholstery and car interiors.
Summer grape- Has been influential in the development of notable hybrid grapes. By crossbreeding summer grape with different species, horticulturists have achieved new wine tastes and more market-friendly varieties.
Notably, the celebrated Norton grape, the oldest in American winemaking, is a result of such hybridization with summer grape.
Pagoda Dogwood- has not only been utilized for its aesthetic appeal in landscaping but also plays a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems. It provides a valuable habitat for various bird species, which rely on its structure for nesting and its berries for food, especially during winter months.
Woodland Coreopsis- Historically, Indigenous North American tribes and early herbalists utilized different parts of the coreopsis plant for various health applications.
Hay Scented Fern- plays a vital role in restoring disturbed habitats. Due to its ability to grow rapidly and cover large areas, it is often used to stabilize soil in areas where the land has been cleared or otherwise disturbed. It helps to prevent erosion by establishing a dense root network quickly.
Common Milkweed- In addition to being in the family of the sole food source for Monarch butterflies, the tough fibers of common milkweed have a rich history of being utilized in crafting ropes and fabrics.
Innovatively, its fluff is tested for use as an anti-allergy stuffing for cushions and buoyancy aids, with the ability to support 30 times its own weight in water. Remarkably, in World War II, North American kids gathered common milkweed fluff to replace kapok in military life vests.
Shrubby St John’s Wort- a highly beneficial native shrub that supports diverse wildlife, acting as a "bee magnet" for native bees, bumblebees, and honeybees with its summer pollen. It is a critical larval host for the Grey Hairstreak butterfly and various moths, offers nesting habitat, resists deer/rabbits, and supports birds with its seed heads.
We hope you’re enjoying summer and can find time to explore all that our public lands have to offer.
Next we head west to Cumberland Gap National Park.
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