It’s a jungle out there, and it smells like licorice! [Morman Branch, Ocala National Forest Annual Conference Field Trip]
Story and Photos by Donna Bollenbach Despite the warnings of “DIFFICULT” and “YOU WILL GET WET”, my decision to go on the Mormon Branch/Ocala National Forest conference field trip in May, was based on two things: First, it was led by Scott Davis. I have been on a few adventures with Scott and have enjoyed every one of them. Even though I don’t think I am going to remember every plant and botanical detail Scott rattles off, I always go home knowing more than I thought I would. I think this is because Scott impresses upon the what's interesting and important. Second, I wanted to see where the Large-leaf grass-of-Parnassus ( Parnassia grandiflora ) blooms. Though I knew I would not see the flower because it is a fall bloomer, I still wanted to see the plant. I read that the presence of Parnassia, along with the Atlantic White Cedar ( Chamaecyparis thyoides ), is an indicator of high plant diversity and rare species. In other words, it would be pristine habita...