February

As Winter continues, snow and ice may accumulate on Stone Mountain and the amount of precipitation it receives will determine the abundance of flowers in Spring. Early emergent plants like the red Diamorhpa and Sandwort can be seen growing in the shallow pits that catch soils as they wash down the mountain. The Trout Lilly, named for its mottled leaves, appears out of the forest floor soil and blooms a brilliant yellow flower. Groundsel leaves are popping up and have been nick-named "bunny ears" for their pointed, alert appearence. Although the coldest parts of the year can occur in the month of February, many plants are showing signs of life and what is to come.