Author: Lisa Trapp
Appearing as though it should be more at home in the mountains, Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana), also sometimes referred to as “Swamp Magnolia”, is actually historically native to the Capital Region, and can be found extending all the way East toward the coast. Often overshadowed by the larger and more showy introduced species of Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) the Sweetbay is definitely one you don’t want to miss.
... Read more »
Author: Lisa Trapp
Perhaps one of the most iconic and identifiable of all the native bees, bumble bees (Bombus spp.) are not only easy to recognize and universally beloved, they are also incredibly valuable pollinators. Approximately 263 different bumble bee species can be found world wide with roughly 28 different species found in the eastern half of North America. Their larger body mass can make them easy to spot,
... Read more »
Author: Anna G. Aquino
I cringe when I think of the many times I have promoted the value of a plant, star magnolia comes to mind, stating that “its leaves in August are pristine, not a bite taken out of them. I suggest we plant it!” It is easier to forgive myself when I read Doug Tallamy, the famous entomologist who many credit with igniting native plants awareness and author of Bringing Nature Home.
... Read more »
Winter fades into spring, the sunshine hits a little warmer, pollinators begin to appear bouncing among the earliest blooms and the mid-story of Virginia’s forests glow with flashes of yellow as Northern Spicebush (Lindera benzoin), affectionately known as “Forsythia of the woods” bursts into bloom. This Capital Region native, is an exciting spring bloomer, but it also has tremendous value for gardeners, wildlife, history, and even foragers of today.
... Read more »
