Pitcher Plant Bog and Sandhill

 

While rain percolates through most of the coastal plain’s sandy surface area, in some localized areas, clay layers cause water to pool.  Leaves and other natural debris decompose in these pools, creating unique habitats for specialized species – habitats that are becoming endangered due to development, toxic runoff, and other threats.  The Garden’s recreated pitcher plant bog features a number of endangered species, including Yellow Fringed Orchid (Platanthera ciliaris), Pink Sundew (Drosera capillaris), Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis), Sunbonnet (Chaptalia tomentosa), Pondspice (Litsea aestivalis), Dwarf Witch Alder (Fothergilla gardenii)

 Strangely enough, xeric sandhill ecosystems coexist right alongside bogs.  Rain percolates through the sandhill, leaving dry conditions for species such Sandhill Rosemary (Ceratiola ericoides), Georgia Savory (Clinopodium georgianum), and Prickly Pear (Opuntia sp.).

Last updated: 5/31/2013