Carolina False Morel

Fungi > Discinaceae & False Morels

The Carolina False Morel (Gyromitra caroliniana), often celebrated colloquially as the ‘big red morel’ or ‘elephant ear,’ is a monumental ascomycete fungus native to the rich, damp hardwood forests of the eastern and southeastern United States....

Ravine Trapdoor Spider

Invertebrates > Halonoproctidae & Trapdoor Spiders

The Ravine Trapdoor Spider (Cyclocosmia truncata) is undeniably one of the most anatomically bizarre and specialized arachnids in North America. Inhabiting steep, mossy hardwood ravines across the southeastern United States, this secretive fossorial mygalomorph is...

Parrot Pitcher Plant

Plants > Carnivorous Plants

The Parrot Pitcher Plant (Sarracenia psittacina) is one of the most structurally bizarre and sophisticated carnivorous plants native to North America. Endemic to the hyper-acidic, nutrient-depleted wet pine savannas and seepage bogs of the southeastern United States...

Mole Salamander

Amphibians > Salamanders

The Mole Salamander (Ambystoma talpoideum) is a heavy-bodied, subterranean amphibian native to the bottomland hardwood forests and Coastal Plain swamps of the southeastern United States. Named for its secretive, burrowing habits, this fascinating species is famous for...

Purple Passionflower

Plants > Malpighiales

The Purple Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata), widely cherished across the American South as the Wild Passion Vine or ‘Maypop’, is one of the most intricately designed, exotic, and historically celebrated native wildflowers in North America. Blooming...