Date of trip: 04/05/2019 Start time: 10:00 am to 01:00 pm Eastern Time Location: Located in Pulaski County on Ocala Road, across from the Hazeldell Church Difficulty of hike: Easy Length of hike: 1.5 miles The hike is easy, but some of the hike will be off-trail.
Join Dr. Krupa at Hazeldell Meadow Nature Preserve and hear all about his latest studies of Kentucky’s rarest carnivorous plant, the dwarf sundew, (Drosera brevifolia). He has been studying this plant and its fascinating habitat for over 13 years! We will also learn about other associated species, such as spiders and other interesting plants. Tara Littlefield (botanist at the office of Kentucky Nature Preserves) will also be there to answer any rarity, natural community or floristic questions, as well as John Burnett (Pulaski County Conservation District Land Manager). Plus, you will learn how you can help in ongoing efforts to protect rare species and communities at Hazeldell through assisting with monitoring, management and restoration projects at Hazeldell Meadow Nature Preserve.
When: April 12, 2019, 1PM to 7PM & April 13, 2019, 8:30AM to 9PM Where: Natural Bridge State Resort Park, Slade, Powell Co., KY
Everything is coming together for another great Wildflower Weekend. Take a look below at the final agenda. This year’s event offers outdoor hikes, a membership social, a book-signing, presentations, a panel forum, and raffle prizes. Professionally guided hikes and indoor presentations by regional experts explore the region’s rich natural history and resources. Click on either page to open the agenda in PDF format to download. Hope you can make it.
Help us spread the love of botanizing throughout Kentucky! Find the most plant species in Kentucky in 2019 and help contribute to our plant atlas and other conservation projects. Using the iNaturalist app and site, we will build a collection of observations of Kentucky native plant species.
iNaturalist helps you identify the plants and animals around you. Get connected with a community of over 750,000 scientists and naturalists who can help you learn more about nature! What’s more, by recording and sharing your observations, you’ll create research quality data for scientists working to better understand and protect nature.
Click on the picture of the project below to visit and see what species have already been observed.
Sedge Identification and Diversity (Carex, Cyperaceae)
Many of the grass-like plants one may encounter in our natural areas in Kentucky are not actually grasses. Although similar, they are members of an entirely different family of plants; the sedge family (Cyperaceae)
Instructor: Rob Naczi*
When: May 21-22, 2019 (Tuesday/Wednesday) Time: 9am-5pm Eastern Time Where: Richmond area, Eastern Kentucky University and nearby natural areas, exact details TBA Cost: $75
THIS WORKSHOP HAS FINISHED
Many of the grass-like plants one may encounter in our natural areas in Kentucky are not actually grasses. Although similar, they are members of an entirely different family of plants. This workshop will focus on the largest genus within the sedge family (Cyperaceae), the genus Carex. With close to 150 species in this genus found in Kentucky, the diversity of sedges (Carex) is astounding and they can tell us a lot about the natural communities upon which they are found. Rob Naczi, curator of the New York Botanical garden and North America’s Carex expert, will teach us about sedge diversity and how to identify this notoriously difficult group.
*About the Instructor
Robert F. C. Naczi, PhD Arthur J. Cronquist Curator of North American Botany, The New York Botanical Garden
Robert Naczi is a plant systematist whose research focuses on the flora of North America, plant conservation, sedges (Cyperaceae), and Western Hemisphere Pitcher Plants (Sarraceniaceae). Naczi uses a multi-pronged approach in his research, utilizing field, herbarium, and laboratory methods. His fieldwork has given him first-hand knowledge of the plant life of much of North America. He and collaborators are writing a comprehensive account of the Northeast’s spontaneous plants, New Manual of Vascular Plants of Northeastern United States and Adjacent Canada. He is lead editor of Sedges: Uses, Diversity, and Systematics of the Cyperaceae (2008). Also, he co-authored Mistaken Identity? Invasive Plants and their Native Look-alikes: An identification guide for the Mid-Atlantic (2008). For 35 years, he has studied the taxonomy, phylogeny, and ecology of Carex. Carex is the largest genus of flowering plants in North America (500 species) and in most temperate regions of the world (2000 species total). Naczi earned the B.S. in Biology from St. Joseph’s University, Philadelphia, and the Ph.D. in Botany from University of Michigan.
When: April 12, 2019, 1PM to 8PM & April 13, 2019, 9AM to 9PM Where: Natural Bridge State Resort Park, Slade, Powell Co., KY Cost: $10 for adults, $3 for ages 12-17, free for ages 12 & under
Join us as we explore Natural Bridge State Park and the Red River Gorge in search of spring wildflowers with some of the best botanists in the state. Event will include wildflower hikes on Friday and Saturday, and a Friday night social with a short membership meeting and the opportunity to meet other KNPS members. Saturday evening will include educational talks, a book-signing, live music by the Forest Fiddleheads, and a panel discussion on recreational uses and impacts of the RRG and how they play a role in conservation. Door prizes and raffles will be included in Saturday evening festivities, including a wood carving by Bob VanHoff, as well as plants donated by KY Division of Forestry and UK Arboretum. Book-signing by Dan and Judy Dourson, authors of the new book Wildflowers and Ferns of Red River Gorge and the Greater Red River Basin.
Discounted KNPS memberships, $10 for paid registrants. Registration on site prior to hikes and programs. Hikes start at Natural Bridge Lodge, programs are in Woodland Activities Center.
THE GENUS AGASTACHE IN KENTUCKY (Clayton – 1830’s ex Gronov. 1762)
Also known as Giant Hyssops or Hummingbird Mints has two native species in Kentucky: Agastache nepetoides (L.)-Kuntze (1891) Catnip/Yellow Giant Hyssop and Agastache scrophulariifolia (Willd.)- Kuntze (1891) Purple Giant Hyssop.
The genus Agastache is in the Lamiaceae (mint) family, subfamily nepetoideae, and the tribe mentheae. This genus was formally established in 1762 by a Dutch botanist Jan Frederik Gronovius (1690-1762) in his second edition of Flora Virginica (Linnaeus actively assisted Gronovius with this work). Flora Virginica was actually based on the notes and specimens sent to Gronovius by an English botanist John Clayton (1695-1773) while he was living in Virginia. Clayton had given the genus name to these perennial flowering herbs in the 1730’s. The second edition was published in 1762 by Grovonius’ son, Laurens (also a botanist), as the elder Grovonius had died in June of 1762. This second edition was published without Clayton’s knowledge or permission. Agastache’s author’s citation is often followed by Clayton ex Grovonius (Gronov.). Linnaeus named a genus of wildflowers – Claytonia (Spring Beauty) in honor of Clayton’s botanical contributions. Agastache (many spikes) comes from the Greek word Agan (many/very much) and Stakus/Stachys (ears /spikes of grain/wheat) which describes the plant’s “many ears/spikes” of inflorescences.
Agastache plants are aromatic flowering perennials with 21 species in North America and 1 specie in Eastern Asia. The erect/branching mint family plants range from 0.5m tall to 3m tall with square stems and opposite, petioled, coarsely toothed leaves 1-15cm wide. Aromatic inflorescences of upright spikes 2.5-15cm long resemble candles in a candlelabrum. Numerous flowers per spike are 0.6cm long. Five petals/sepals (tepals) form a tubular two-lipped flower with 2 lobes on the upper lip and 3 lobes on the lower lip. Four stamens extend beyond the flower – 2 upper stamens curve downward and 2 lower stamens curve upward. Fruit is a brown round/oval dry nutlet 1.5-2mm long with minute hairs at the squared tipped end. Flowers, which do not open at the same time, can be white, yellow, orange, red, magenta, pink, mauve, blue purple, or lavender. Plants generally thrive in moist (not wet), sun or shade, rich soil, and limestone based anthropogenic (man-made/disturbed), forest edges, talus, and rocky habitats. They are hardy in zones 3-6. Agastaches are believed to be descended from robust aromatic Asian plants which are in the Genera Dracocephalum (typical dragonheads), Lallemantia (West Asian dragonheads), Shizonepeta (Japanese catnip), and Hyssops (True hyssops). The Agastaches probably/are believed to have originated as a North American/Trans-Beringian (Laurasion distribution) offshoot about 25 million years ago (late Oligocene geologic epoch of late Paleogenic period). Debate is on-going as to Agastache lineage.
The common name, Hummingbird Mint, is from the Agastache flowers’ attraction to hummingbirds and the mint/anise aromas of their leaves. The common name, Giant Hyssop, is fairly ambiguous. Hyssop is both the classic name for genus Hyssopus and the plant Hyssopus officinalis (Hyssop) coined by Lineaus in 1753. Hyssop is a Eurasian (southern Europe/western Asian) aromatic mint with 4 stamens, square stems, and narrow/lanceolate opposite leaves. Hyssop can be used as an adjective to describe leaves that tend to be narrow/oblong/lanceolate – as Eupatorium hyssopifolium – commonly known Hyssop Leaf Eupatorium or Thoroughwort. Interestingly, Hyssop or a “Hyssop-like” plant is mentioned in the Bible – 10 times in the New Testament and 2 times in the Old Testament. The Hebrews identified the plant as Ezov or Ezob while the Greek translation of this plant was Hyssop. Both the Hebrew and Greek name of this plant mentioned in the Bible probably share a common but unknown origin. Hyssopus officinalis (Hyssop)(L.) is not the Hyssop mentioned in the Bible as it is a southern European/western Asian species and was unknown in Palestine at these earlier biblical dates. Biblical scholars cite Origanum syriacum (Syrian Hyssop), a close relative to oregano and majoram, as most likely the Hyssop mentioned in the Bible. Other scholars believe that a mustard plant, caper (Capparis spinosa), or a mint family plant (Origanum maru), is the Biblical Hyssop. The issue is not resolved as to the actual identity of the “hissop” so important to Hebrew purification rites. Why Linnaeus chose Hyssopus (hyssop) for the genus name of these earlier mints now in the Agastache genus was probably based on several botanical/taxonomy factors of that time (plant structure, appearance, and sex organ(s) composition).
There are two native species of Agastache in Kentucky: A. nepetoides (L.) 1753-Kuntze (1891), Yellow Giant Hyssop and A. scrophulariifolia Willd. (1801)-Kuntze (1891), Purple Giant Hyssop. Agastache nepetoides is an infrequent FACU (Facultative Upland) plant found occasionally in wetlands (1-33%) and dry to mesic open woods and woodland borders across Kentucky. Greenish-yellow flowers are present (see photos). Agastache scrophulariifolia is a rare historical (not observed since 1980) plant in the Appalachian plateaus and interior low plateaus. Flower colorations range from white to blue/purple (see photes). Both these mint family plants have square stems, opposite leaves, and are aromatic. Both bloom July through October and stalks can remain standing through the winter. Flower colors are yellow for A. nepetoides and mainly blue/purple flowers for A. scrophulariifolia. Flower colorization can readily distinguish these two species. Other subjective differences can/may also assist in the identities:
A. nepetoides – Yellow Giant Hyssop 2-5 feet tall square stems – may be slightly winged smooth stem weakly aromatic calyx – 1-1.5 mm with ovate lobes
A. nepetoides – Yellow Giant Hyssop
A. scrophulariifolia – Purple Giant Hyssop 3-6+ feet tall no winged stems minute hairs on stem strongly aromatic calyx – 2-2.5 mm – with lanceolate lobes
A. scrophulariifolia – Purple Giant Hyssop
Agasstache nepetoides has other common names: catmint, catnep, catnip for its aromatic scent similar to catnip (Nepeta cataria). Yellow Giant Hyssop may also be referred to as calmint/calamint for its medical usages in tea or as a conserve (undried vegetables mixed with sugar and blended to form a soft mass) for a “calming” effect in treating “hysterical” complaints, seizures, stomachaches, and colic.
The species name nepetoides (L.) Yellow Giant Hyssop is Latin based meaning resembling Nepeta (catmint). The origin of nepetoides may be from several sources. Nepeta is Latin for catnip/catmint and was used by Linnaeus in 1738 as the genus name for catnip – “nepeta floribus interrupte spicatis pedunculatis” (nepeta with flowers in a stalked interrupted spike).
An Italian city named Nepi, Nepet, or Nepete that was well-known for having a “catnip” plant with a less aromatic/enticing scent could also be the source of nepeta. Finally Nepa is Latin for a water scorpion whose sting was treated by the Yellow Giant Hyssop may also play a as the species name.
Agastache scrophulariifloria’s (Purple Giant Hyssop) other common names are Lavender Hyssop, Anise Hyssop, Prairie Hyssop, Horsemint, and one unusual moniker – Figwort/Pilewort. Figwort is from Old English words Fig meaning piles (hemorrhoids) and an Old English word wort meaning plant usually possessing medicinal usages – thus Figwort/Pilewort is a plant to treat hemorrhoids. (Several other plants may also go by Pilewort: fireweed (Erechtite hieraciifolia) and lesser celadine (Ranunculus ficaria). Purple Giant Hyssop specie’s name scrophulariifolia is from two Latin words – scrofula (meaning swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck due to tuberculosis) and folia (meaning leaves). This plant was used to treat scrofula associated with tuberculosis. Scrophularia is a genus in the family Scrophulariaceae (Figwort family with 200 species) and both are also derived from the Latin word scrofula. Interestingly both these Agastaches, Yellow and Purple Giant Hyssops, have the previous binomial genus name of hysspus – Hyssopus nepetoides (L.) (1753) and Hyssopus scrophulariifolia Willd. (1801). – (Carl Ludwig Willdenow (1765-1812), a German botanist/taxonomist – a founder of Photogeography: Study of Geographic Distributions of plants).
In 1891 Otto Kuntze, ((1843-1907) a German botanist, placed the genus Hyssopus, whose plants are called Giant Hyssops or Hummingbird mints, into the genus Agastache (Clayton ex Gronovius) probably based on Agastache leaves being more of “catnip” leaf shape, structure, and aromatic scent. Controversy still exists and with DNA sampling/testing expect more taxonomic changes.
Both the Purple and Yellow Giant Hyssops have medicinal, horticultural, culinary, and other usages that are interchangeable among the species. China has used Giant Hyssops for several centuries. With some 30+ known compounds, the Purple and Yellow Giant Hyssops have demonstrated anti-viral, anti-polio, anti-cancer, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antioxidant bioactivity. Usage in AIDS and hypertension have shown promise. Ongoing research continues. Use of oils of mints in general must be used judiciously and safely – even in low doses (2-3 drops) can cause seizures and other serious complications especially in younger children. One should always consult their doctor before trying any mint oil preparation. Use during pregnancy is not advised. Native Americans used Giant Hyssops leaves and flowers in teas to treat colds, ague, fever, colic, cough, worms, rheumatism, and as an expectorant and a carmiative (anti-flatulence). They used leaves/flowers in poultices for bruises, rashes, itching, stings, swelling, and as an astringent. Native Americans used conserves for migraines, seizures, and as a “calming” agent. The Meskwaki used a Giant Hyssop infusion as a diuretic and the Iroquois/Cherokee used it for poison ivy rash and itching. Agastache scrophulariifolia specifically was used for hemorrhoids.
Culinary usages include Giant Hyssops leaves/flowers in soothing, calming, aromatic teas, as potherbs in salads, and a seasoning agent in soups/stews and other meal preparations. Seeds were made into meal. Giant Hyssop honey was viewed as a special delicious treat.
Horticultural and manufacturing usages of Giant Hyssops revolve around their economic importance. Agastache nepetoides and A. scrophulariifolia plants, seeds, rootstocks, and their cultivars are sold by nurseries and trade companies as ornamentals for landscaping, and as proven attractors for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds so valuable for garden/crop pollination. The many pollinators are rewarded with the Hyssops rich nectar and pollen. Giant Hyssops are a favorite with beekeepers. Giant Hyssops combine/mix in nicely as companion plants to black-eyed susans (Rudbeckia), blazing stars (Liatris), and sunflowers (Heliathus). These tall beautiful native wildflowers provide valuable resources and aesthetic appeal to man and fauna.
Folklore practices concerning Giant Hyssops has dried plants hung in the home as having powers to drive out evil and negativity. Floriography has Agastache plants with symbolic meanings of cleanliness, holiness, healing powers, protection from evil, spiritual cleaning, and body-spirit protection.
Propagation of Giant Yellow and Purple Hyssops can be by seeds (after cold stratification), rhizomes, rootstocks, and spring cuttings. They can also self-pollinate which may explain their heterozygosity. Hyssops transplant readily in early stages. Seed dispersal is achieved by seed/nutlet eating birds as goldfinches, wrens, and sparrows. Wind may also disperse seeds by utilizing the hyssop seed’s hairs as airfoils or as “feathers”. Both Agastache nepetoides and scrophulariifolia are resistant to moderate drought and heat; tolerant of most soils except persistently wet habitats; and need full sun in warm climates (zones 3-6). Plants need limited competition especially from non-natives. Giant Hyssops are deer resistant and are not affected by the alleopathic capability of walnut trees. Agastaches are threatened by habitat loss, theft, extreme drought/heat, flooding, and natural succession. Giant Hyssops normally last 3-4 years.
Agastache nepetoides (Giant Yellow Hyssop) and A. scrophulariifolia (Giant Purple Hyssop) are two native Kentucky species that need our protection. These towering, robust, beautiful plants are not only aesthetic but useful to man and fauna. Look for Giant Hyssops in summer and fall. Marvel at their beauty and protect their habitats. One author caught up in Hyssops virtues/horticultural usages stated “A towering specimen in the shade garden, not for meek and mild. Do Not plant near mid/low height plants. Do plant near that jackass neighbor”!! I’ll end this paper on this whimsical thought provoking statement.
Chris Bidwell – Naturalist, past president KSNH Mary Alice Bidwell – typing Susan Wilson – photography
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