Flora by Family: Meet the Asters

In this series of classes for the budding botanist, we’ll make a study of Duke Farm’s diverse flora, one plant family at a time. Focusing on patterns and shared characteristics among related species makes our regional botanical biodiversity a little easier to digest, but it also lets us peer into these plants’ evolutionary histories and primes us to recognize far-flung and never-before-seen plants as easily as the most familiar local wildflowers. We’ll get to know members of this month’s plant family both through herbarium samples and in the field, then collect and press some specimens for ourselves.

This class will provide a big-picture look at the family as a whole and introduce its most characteristic features, so beginners are welcome!

Program Guidelines

Registration is required. Please let us know if you are no longer able to attend so your space can be offered to someone else. Cancellations received at least 48 hours in advance are eligible for a refund, if applicable. Programs at Duke Farms are RAIN or SHINE, but in the event of severe weather, classes may be canceled. Email notice will be given as early as possible via email and refunds will be issued in the case of cancellations.

What to Expect

Participants can expect to be outside for up to an hour, walking on both paved and mixed trails with no significant grade. Please dress for the weather and bring water or snacks as needed.

We provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate, please contact us at registrations@dukefarms.org.