Hi River Roaders,

We’re a week or two away from peak fall foliage in Montgomery County, but there are a number of trees/vines that are already turning, and they stand out among the green. Can you feel the change in the wind?

The deep crimson of our native Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) stands our along River Road.

In front of the Virginia creeper along River Road is our own stand of native Cattail (Typha latifolia). Our very own wetland!

Two weeks ago I showed the nuts from the Bottlebrush Buckeye (Asculus parvifolia). It has quickly changed color.

Leaves of three, let it be! Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) has brilliant fall foliage and the berries are an important bird food.

Two weeks ago the blog focused on seeds. I left out our wonderful American holly (Ilex opaca).

Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) by the exit.

Oak leaves on a path by the springs.

We have many Winged sumac (Rhus copallinum) along River Road. Many species of wildlife use the leaves and fruit.

Another Winged sumac, in full fall foliage.

That’s all for this week.

Joe