When: September 10, 2026 @ 10:00 am
Plant it once, grow it forever!
Our native Jewelweeds (Impatiens capensis and Impatiens pallida) are delightful late summer/early autumn wildflowers with medicinal applications, numerous wildlife benefits, and landscape applications. This prolific annual prefers to grow in damp, partially shaded locations, making it a great addition to rain gardens to reduce flooding, to streambanks to control erosion, or following invasive Japanese stilt grass (Microstegium vimineum) removal to suppress regrowth. The plentiful bright blooms are a favorite of native pollinators, and will attract hummingbirds as they fuel up for their upcoming southwards migration. The watery sap of this plant is a natural poison ivy rash preventative or cure, and will also alleviate other skin conditions like sunburn and eczema; think of it as our “native aloe!” As if all that wasn’t enough, the seeds are edible (though tiny), with a taste similar to walnuts, and the fun seed pods have granted this plant the alternate common name of “touch-me-not” since they explode with the slightest pressure. During this event, we will collect Jewelweed seeds from the Jackson County Greenway for participants to take home to their own property (or a pot!), or donate to Mainspring’s WNC Wildseed Library.
Can’t make this event, but still want some Jewelweed seeds? Email Skye at [email protected] to arrange a pickup at our office after the event.
We will meet at the Jackson County Greenway just before 10:00am on Thursday, September 10th, and be back at our cars around 12:00pm. See the map below for exact location. The Greenway is ADA accessible, including handicapped parking spots, and the path is wide, flat, and paved. As we walk, we may take the time to notice and appreciate additional creatures like birds, mosses, or other wildflowers. Jewelweed seeds must be sown fresh or stored wet in the fridge, so participants are encouraged to have a spot in mind to plant these seeds immediately following the event or plan to donate them to Mainspring. Since Jewelweed can be grown in medium to large (1+ gallon) containers, owning property is not required to participate in this walk and enjoy this plant. Planting guidance, care instructions, and all materials will be provided.
This event is weather-dependent. Participants are encourage to register below to receive weather-related messages, as well as a reminder email the day before the event, but walk-in’s are welcome. Long pants are also encouraged as poison ivy occurs along this trail, often in the same areas as jewelweed. Please leave pets at home. Email Skye at [email protected] with questions.
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