field trip – Page 5 – NPSOT-Williamson County Chapter

March 29, 2025

Field Trip: Tejas Park on April 12

— by Cindy Chrisler

What: Tour meadows of early spring wildflowers at Tejas Park, Lake Georgetown
When: Saturday, April 12, 2025, 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Where: Tejas Park, 4560 Co Rd 258, Liberty Hill, TX 78642
Who: NPSOT members and members of the public—all are welcome!

Join Cindy Chrisler and other NPSOT-Williamson County members for a walk in the meadows of Tejas Park, Lake Georgetown, in search of spring wildflowers. We will assemble in the parking lot at 8:30 a.m. to beat the heat.

While the pace will be leisurely, there may be some steep areas and a creek crossing, depending on the route determined a few days prior to the scheduled hike. Recent rains will enhance the naturally occurring annuals, and trees and shrubs should be resplendent in their new foliage. Participants should wear clothing appropriate for the weather, use bug spray and sunscreen, and bring water. There is a pit toilet at the trail head.

Some meadows at Tejas Park have been seeded with mixes from Native American Seeds, and others have been recently subjected to prescribed burns. This trip will be limited to three hours, but we hope it will encourage you to explore this hidden gem on your own as the seasons progress. Wildflowers vary over the seasons and in different microhabitats of the park, so you will see something different every time you hike at Tejas. No matter your expertise in wildflower identification, you will enjoy your hike!

Directions: From I-35, take Williams Drive west, then turn south on Farm to Market Rd 3405. Turn east on County Rd 258 and continue across the North San Gabriel River. Turn left into Tejas Park.

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See photos from previous field trips in our album =>

Field Trip Photo Album

March 22, 2025

Trip Report: Found! Texabama Croton

— by Kristie Thompson

What a wonderfully spent Sunday afternoon! The weather appeared to be elated to have us and Jean Nance was a superbly gracious host on March 16’s field trip.

Jean allowed us to explore her beautiful property and glorious home while educating us on the history of the land and the current species she lives among. The Nance cabin has been moderately modernized, so it still has that log cabin charm with eco-friendly updates. Natural log shelf ends perfectly displayed their collected nature trinkets: rocks, minerals, and shells.

We were able to experience the prolific amounts of Texabama croton that Jean was absolutely not exaggerating about after Tyson’s presentation at the last chapter meeting. It was everywhere along the trails! I was also humbled by the height of this plant. Although Tyson had explained the facts in his presentation, all I could picture before the field trip was the commonly known doveweed/prairie tea Croton as a height comparison. Now, having observed Texabama croton firsthand I’m definitely inspired to search for it in my common hiking spots that appear to be the appropriate habitat.

After we toured multiple trails behind Jean’s home where she pointed out Scarlet clematis, silktassel (and allowed us to collect a handful of seeds), and Western white honeysuckle, along with a preferred sapsucker drilled tree trunk, Jean took center stage on a favored slab of limestone to deliver additional history of the land.

Once we were back at the cabin, we enjoyed each other’s company on the back deck while snacking on some refreshments and Jean’s delicious homemade pumpkin bread. Also joining in on the chit-chat were several black-crested titmice, Northern cardinals, and a couple of red-bellied woodpeckers.

Thank you again, Nance Family, for lending out your space!

woman speaking while standing on rock — Jean sharing her knowledge during a great visit. Photo credit: Kristie Thompson.

Texabama croton, Croton alabamensis var. texensis — Jean sharing her knowledge during a great visit. Photo credit: Kristie Thompson.

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See photos from this trip and others in our album =>

Field Trip Photo Album

March 5, 2025

Field Trip: Jean Nance Property on March 16

— by Sue Wiseman

What: Tour Jean Nance’s Property (Look for Texabama croton!)
When: 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM, Sunday, March 16, 2025
Where: Leander, near Nameless Road.
- The address will be provided to attendees. See instructions at the end of this post.
- Carpooling is recommended as parking is limited.
Who: Members and non-members are welcome!

Dear Native Plant Enthusiasts,

We are excited to invite you to a delightful field trip hosted by the Williamson County Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas! Join us for a wonderful opportunity to explore the beautiful and diverse native plants, including Texabama croton, at the home of our gracious host, Jean Nance.

During this field trip, you’ll have the chance to:

See Texabama croton as discussed by Tyson Bartlet at our March 13 monthly meeting.
Discover and learn about a variety of native plants and their ecological importance.
Connect with fellow nature lovers and discover plants native to the Balcones Canyonlands portion of our Edwards Plateau vegetational area.

Please bring your curiosity and any questions you might have about native plants. Whether you’re an experienced member of NPSOT or just beginning your journey, this event is a wonderful chance to expand your understanding and appreciation of the native flora that surrounds us!

This land is private property. The terrain is uneven and somewhat rocky, however there is Texabama croton near the house and folks that might be unsure of their balance may tour around the house and hang out on the deck.

Everyone should dress appropriately wearing long pants, long sleeved shirts and closed toed shoes. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray.

We look forward to seeing you there and exploring the beauty of our native Texas plants together!

If you are planning to attend, please send an email to us to request the address. Send your email to wilco-chapter@npsot.org.

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See photos from some of our previous field trips in our Field Trip Album.

Field Trip Album