October

The mountain cools and the length of daylight decreases during October and fall ushers in colors and late bloomers. Beauty Berry, a shrub that bloomed in June, now has purple berries that are a favorite of local birds. Pokeberry also fruits in fall and although quickly consumed by birds, many parts of the Pokeweed are toxic to humans.The berries of Pokeweed have also been used as ink dye and were reportedly used in the Declaration of Independence. Many Asters around the park are in bloom, including the threatened Geogia Aster which has not been identified in the park since 2004 by a park photographer. The park boasts many a species of fern and Christmas Fern, the only evergreen, can be more easily identified as other ferns shed there leaves. Golden Rods persist into the cooler weather providing a great late necatur source. Step out into Autumn and see what can be found on and around Stone Mountain.