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 7: Giant Live Oak and an Unusual Elm Tree
This stately Live Oak tree is one of the largest along the trail. The tree is likely more than 100 years old and it has survived for good reason. These native grand trees are some of the most sturdy, hurricane resistant trees in the state and are critically important to this habitat.
As noted before, the Live Oak is a favored host to numerous epiphytes. On this tree we can spot a few, as well as a healthy amount of Resurrection Fern. This fern turns brown during dry periods, but quickly bounces back to a healthy green after any rain – hence the name.
Notice how the mature Sabal Palm near the Live Oak had to adjust its growing approach to find daylight.
Now, take a look at the Elm tree to the left of this marker. The shape of the roots on the Elm are quite unusual. They likely formed in this unusual manner due to marshy conditions that were present at some point in the tree’s past. This adapted root structure added more stability for the growing tree.
Go to Marker 8: Our Unusual State Tree
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.