Awendaw Savanna Wildflower Viewing Site

The Francis Marion National Forest is one of the most exceptional wildflower viewing areas in the southeast. Fire-maintained longleaf pine ecosystems, including those found on the Francis Marion, are widely recognized by America’s Longleaf Restoration Initiative and numerous conservation groups, for harboring the highest biological diversity outside the tropics. As many as 40-50 vascular plant species in a square meter area, and 140 plant species in a 1000 square meter area, can be found within park-like savannas and woodlands maintained open through thinning and prescribed fire. Venture forth to discover an understory of fascinating plants including several species of grasses, legumes, composites, carnivorous pitcher plants, and orchids. These forests range from dry to wet, depending on the time of year, and soil conditions, so please watch where you step!