By Andrew Berry
Late Summer Wildflowers in Bloom
Bernheim Forest is alive with late-season wildflowers and the first hints of fall color along forest edges. Bright gold, white, and purple blooms from wingstem, tickseed, ironweed, boneset, and goldenrod provide a vital nectar boost for pollinators, including migrating monarchs. Around wetlands at Bernheim’s Springhouse and along Lake Nevin’s boardwalk on the Forest Giants Trail, look for brilliant red cardinal flowers, great blue lobelias, and jewelweeds that attract and feed hummingbirds.
Monarchs are now migrating through Bernheim, while caterpillars continue to feed on milkweed. Early estimates suggest this is a strong year for monarchs, with frequent sightings of both butterflies and caterpillars across the Arboretum. Throughout Bernheim’s prairies and forest edges, monarchs are nectaring on late-season wildflowers as they flutter south. Bird migration is also underway, with warblers that breed in Canada passing through Kentucky on their long journey to southern wintering grounds.
This year has also brought an abundant nut crop at Bernheim. White oak, chestnut oak, and red oaks are producing a heavy crop of acorns, while black walnuts, beechnuts, and hickory nuts are plentiful as well. Many soft-fruited species, such as dogwood and persimmon, are also laden with food. These resources are essential for wildlife as they prepare for the cold winter months ahead.
Dry conditions have caused some edge trees to begin changing color early. Tulip poplars, maples, and sycamores are already showing yellow, orange, and brown. As nights grow cooler and days shorter, expect even more vibrant color. With the Arboretum’s diverse species and the native forest along Forest Hill Drive, visitors can enjoy shades of gold, brown, green, and red throughout Bernheim well into November.
We invite you to explore the best fall color display in central Kentucky. Whether you’re wandering through the Arboretum, visiting the Tin Man, or hiking over 40 miles of trails, inspiration abounds during late summer and fall. Special thanks to the members, volunteers, and staff who help keep Bernheim beautiful and inspiring.
