The Nature Trail at Sugar Mill Ruins is surprisingly diverse and interesting. At each numbered marker along the way, you can learn a little bit more about the items that make this Nature Trail a Volusia County hidden treasure.
Marker 10: The Sweet Gum Tree
On this portion of the nature trail, we can spot a large number of fallen spiky objects on the path. These hard burr balls are actually the fruit from Sweet Gum trees. The sap/gum of the tree has been used in the past both medicinally and as a chewing gum. The dark wood of the tree has also long been used by carpenters. due to its dark beauty.
Unfortunately, the Sword Fern prevalent in this area is another invasive that seems to be taking over. This fern is slowly choking out other native plants. However, If you look closely, you can see random wild flowers from time-to-time, like the Lantana pictured below, which is a favorite of butterflies.
Go to Marker 11 Shoestring Fern
Thank you to the following folks who generously donated their time and expertise to identifying the plants on this nature trail: Raymond Jarrett, David Griffis, Trey Hannah and Kalan Taylor.