Wildflowers are members of an active, dynamic natural system. Each interacts with other flora and fauna, contributing to the health of the system as a whole. Humans have also benefited from ancient and continuing associations with wildflowers; for instance, mayapple contains a chemical that is used in the treatment of skin cancer. The C&O Canal boasts over 600 species of wildflowers, some of which are listed as threatened or endangered within the state of Maryland. You help protect one of the Park's greatest assets - its natural heritage - simply by showing appreciation and respect for all that lives here. We encourage you to take home a greater understanding of the park and fond memories. Plants need their flowers to reproduce, so please don't pick them; allow others the same opportunity to enjoy these small beauties. The C&O Canal Association has published a guide to flowers along the canal. Native Spring Wildflowers ![]() NPS Photo Wild Ginger These flowers are pollinated by small black flies and the seeds dispersed mainly by ants. The plant provides food for the larvae of pipe-vine swallowtails. ![]() NPS Photo Jack-in-the-Pulpit ![]() NPS Photo Spring Beauty ![]() NPS Photo Mayapple ![]() NPS Photo Trout Lily ![]() NPS Photo Dutchman's Breeches ![]() NPS Photo Blue Phlox Native Americans made tea with phlox leaves. It was consumed for stomach discomforts. ![]() NPS Photo Bloodroot ![]() NPS Photo Violets |
![]() |
![]() |
Last updated: December 15, 2020