The Blue Ridge Parkway, winding along the backbone of the southern Appalachian Mountains, is cherished for its grand vistas and massive mountain peaks, but nestled in the recreation areas, overlooks, and hiking trails that line its length are a wealth of smaller, equally beautiful gems. Hundreds of species of colorful wildflowers thrive among the misty glades, open fields, and marshy streambanks along the Parkway. J. Anthony Alderman's invaluable Wildflowers of the Blue Ridge Parkway will help the visitor locate, identify, and enjoy many of these seasonal treasures. Illustrated with close-up color photographs, this field guide covers roughly 275 species of flowers that the casual visitor could expect to encounter along the Parkway. Clearly written descriptions aid in each plant's identification and offer interesting details, including notes on how Native Americans and early settlers used various species for food, medicine, and clothing. Finally, the book includes a tour guide and map that identify 75 of the best, most easily accessible sites for viewing wildflowers along the Parkway, listing by season which species can be found blooming at each site.