Wingstem (Verbesina alternifolia) in Edge Habitat, Shenandoah National Park, VA
Photo of Wingstem (Verbesina alternifolia)
Taken on Sep. 7, 2025
Wingstem (Verbesina alternifolia), a tall herbaceous plant, grows next to a managed edge between a parking lot and forest in Shenandoah National Park. Tall native plants along the edge reduce the potential for invasive plants and protect soil from erosion. The tall vegetation grows at a lower level where plants are less likely to flop onto the pavement, and this area is wetter from water draining off the road. This setup illustrates many aspects of good design and management, addressing multiple environmental and practical concerns together.
