Because having two official state berries — the blueberry and the strawberry — means plenty of opportunities for hands-on experience.
Our Most Maligned Mammal
Considered bird-feeder thieves by many — and even worse by some — these furry critters are still our cutest state symbol — paws down.
Venus Flytrap for State Flower
It already holds the title of state carnivorous plant, and at least one person thinks the swamp-dwelling insect eater should hold the title of official flower, too.
Blanketflower
This coastal plant is legend on one North Carolina island.
Reggie’s Flower Shoppe in Lexington
Reggie Walser, Welcome’s best-known florist, has been arranging every kind of bloom since he was 3. And he’s not stopping anytime soon.
Woodleaf Tomato Festival
Visit Rowan County for a taste of one community’s iconic crop.
Kudzu Takes Root in Southern Culture
More than a hundred years ago, Japanese arrowroot — aka kudzu — found a home in porch-side flower beds across the South. No one suspected the lush vine with the pretty purple flowers was a monster hell-bent on devouring everything in its path.
Mountain Moss in Brevard
A Pisgah Forest horticulturalist shines light on an overlooked plant.
Carolina Lily: North Carolina’s State Flower
This native, with its showy bloom, is the state’s official wildflower.
