Seven Springs
It's been some time since I walked the trail west of the now-closed Seven Springs campground. But knowing that Hybanthus verticillatus is known in the area, and hoping to find it for a fellow iNatter working on the species, I picked what looks to be the last mild weather of the season to pursue it. It was a thoroughly pleasant morning, and I was distracted from the Hybanthus hunt by dozens and dozens of other critters - riparian plants, birds and arthropods galore. I reached a point a couple of miles out and decided to turn back. Then I heard a peculiar bird call. I chased it without success another hundred meters or so, shrugged and turned around. And there in front of me was a big old Hybanthus. Call it serendipity or what you will; I'll take it.
