Blue Ridge Wildflower Society

10/01/2026

09/27/2026

White snakeroot (Ageratina altissima) is an easy care plant that will grow in conditions from sunny to deep shade in most moisture levels. It is native to just about every county in Virginia. Depending on its available sunlight and water, it can bloom in early summer to fall.

It is infamous for killing Abe Lincoln’s mother from “milk sickness”. The milk was from cows who had been feasting on snakeroot. Therefore, it is not a welcome pasture plant for livestock.

Of course, we all know you should never eat any plants, berries or mushrooms without expert identification. Just enjoy them for their wildlife/pollinator value and beauty.

photo credit: R. Palmer, BRWS member

09/21/2026

Update- What a terrific talk tonight. Thanks to all who attended!

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The Blue Ridge Wildflower Society invites you to join us on Monday, September 28 for a presentation of “Mycology of the Appalachians” by Neil Vaidyam. He is a Member of the Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards, Trail Specialist for Pisgah National Forest, and Instructor for the Wilderness Skills Institute held each year in Pisgah Forest in North Carolina.

All are welcome. You do not have to be a member to attend.

Date September 28, 2026
Program: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Roanoke Council of Garden Clubs, 3640 Colonial Avenue, Roanoke, Virginia 24018

09/16/2026

BRWS member, Lissa, shared this with us.

"Here is my crop from that small envelope of seeds (wild bergamot) Jennifer (BRWS President) gave all participants on the Native Tree walk on Lynchburg on Earth Day/Garden Day 2026!!

I finally got the watering down—I water in a container UNDERNEATH. Key technique which I learned by observing. Sandra gave me a clump of columbine in a plastic dish of water, the kind you place under a potted plant. I thought aha!! I need a container of water under my flats."

09/15/2026

We are seeing these all over right now. This is how to tell the difference.

09/13/2026

Super! 🐝

09/08/2026

This beautiful photo was taken on our field trip this past weekend for a walk at Buffalo Farm in Craig County to view the wildflowers and native plants. Our BRWS members enjoy lots of great walks and activities throughout the year.

Photo credit: E.H., BRWS member

09/06/2026

Annual Meeting Field Trip Descriptions and more details are now posted on our website. Registration coming very soon! https://vnps.org/events/2026-annual-meeting-and-program/

09/05/2026

Here is our Fall 2026 Newsletter hot off the press.