Heath FamilyRhodo means "rose" in Latin, dendron means "tree." This particular "rose-tree" has white flowers and pale pink buds. Notice the green dotted nectar guides on the top petals. Rosebay rhododendron flowers are white, and Catawba flowers are pink. I found this one blooming along the Twin Arches Trail in Big South Fork in late May. The toxin found in the leaves of Rhododenron is andromedotoxin, it is poisonous to all domesticated animals. Perennial Where seen:Big South Fork NRRA, Great Smoky Mountains NP, Frozen Head SP, Warriors' Path SP
Pink Family The leaves of this plant are wiry and tiny. The plant grows on dry cliffs and cedar glades. These flowers were photographed on top of a cliff at Laurel - Snow Pocket Wilderness. Perennial Where seen:Laurel-Snow Pocket Wilderness
Yam Family The flowers of this vine are small and barely noticible. The whorled, heart-shaped leaves are the most attractive feature. Look for the interesting, 3-winged fruits in the fall. I call this vine the "Birth Control Pill Vine." It is related to the Mexican Yam, which was the source of the original steriods used in early birth control pills. Perennial Where seen:Big South Fork NRRA, Great Smoky Mountains NP, Frozen Head SP, Oak Ridge Greenways, Norris Dam SP
