Introduction to the Vascular Flora of the Blue Ridge

2 Credit Hours
May 18–22, 2026
Instructor: Dr. Paul Manos, Duke University
Cost: $500.00

This course welcomes students, professional biologists, and plant enthusiasts alike. Centered on the rich botanical diversity of the Highlands Plateau, it provides both an introduction and a refresher on studying vascular plant diversity.

Through a community-based lens, participants will explore the flora of the Blue Ridge during field excursions and hands-on identification exercises. Course objectives include:

• Understanding key distinguishing features among lycophytes, ferns, and seed plants.
• Learning field characteristics of common and rare species and the habitats they occupy.
• Developing confidence in using identification keys.
• Gaining a clearer understanding of the ecology of major regional plant communities and the biogeography of their species.

This immersive field experience offers a strong foundation for anyone interested in the botanical richness of the Southern Appalachians.