Gentian Family I was delighted to find this plant blooming at Haw Ridge! The flower petals do open at the top. Annual Where seen: Haw Ridge Greenway, Great Smoky Mountains NP
Mint Family I found these pretty little mint-family flowers blooming at Big Ridge State Park in early September. The leaves have a strong minty odor when crushed. Like other mints, Dittany has opposite leaves. The stems are very thin and woody. Perennial Where seen: Big Ridge SP, Great Smoky Mountains NP
Aster Family This is the plant that gives the beautiful insect-pollinated Goldenrod a "bad" name because they bloom at the same time. Ragweed probably got its name because people once had to use a "rag" to take care of the allergy symptoms this plant causes! The male flowers produce millions of microscopic, spiky, spherical spores which are spread by the wind. The small, light green female flowers are barely visible in this picture. Great Ragweed can grow over 6 feet in height. I call it "Mother Nature's Revenge," it likes to grow in places disturbed by man! Annual Where seen: Oak Ridge Greenways, Great Smoky Mountains NP, widespread
