Hi all,

I know you just can't wait until spring, when you can get out and find new plants! Aaron Floden has described a new SHRUB species for Missouri. It is a type of leatherwood, Dirca decipiens, and is very similar to the ordinary leatherwood (Dirca palustris), but is typically found in more upland habitat (dolomite bluffs above rivers). We need the flowers to be sure, so be on the look-out for it next spring!

See the attached PDF to learn more about it.

Thanks,

Susan Farrington
Plant Community Ecologist
Missouri Department of Conservation
Susan.Farrington@mdc.mo.gov

Editor's note: Be sure to view that attached PDF for details on this new species of leatherwood.

Slideshow

In "Missouri's Natural Wonders Guidebook," Don Kurz has created a useful guide for any of us planning hikes for ourselves or for groups.

The book highlights 100 areas that represent the best of Missouri's natural world. Kurz checked out more than 1,600 public lands to come to this list. For the tech savvy or gadget blessed among us, the guide provides GPS coordinates.

Among the wonders listed in the book are prairies, waterfalls, shut-ins, caves, wildlife areas, geologic features, springs, trails, swamps and nature centers.

Kurz’s name is a common one on many MONPS members’ bookshelves. His other titles include “Trees of Missouri Field Guide”’ “Trees of Missouri”, “Illinois Wildflowers”, “Ozark Wildflowers”, “Shrubs and Woody Vines of Missouri”, “Shrubs and Woody Vines of Missouri Field Guide” and “Scenic Driving the Ozarks Including the Ouachita Mountains.”

Kurz has been a professional botanist, writer and nature photographer for more than 30 years. He was awarded the Erna R. Eisendrath Education Award in 1998 by MONPS.

Kurz plans to sign books in the lobby outside the gift shop at the Missouri Botanical Garden from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Dec. 5.

http://store.cloudland.net/merchant.ihtml?step=4&pid=88&id=1

The Missouri Native Plant Society’s Badge of Achievement

The MONPS Badge of Achievement shows the pale purple and yellow cone–flowers on a blue background trimmed with green and yellow. These bright, showy wildflowers are representative of the wide variety of plants native to the state. The badge is embroidered on sturdy material that may be sewn onto a pack, hat or other item. Actual size, 31/2 inches.

• It’s fun
• You'll learn about our native wildflowers and other plants
• It will look good on your hat, pack or jacket
• It marks you as an achiever with special knowledge of native plants & their habitat,because THIS BADGE MUST BE EARNED.