Trees and Plants

The Black Hills offers a unique ecosystem where several plant ranges overlap. There are northern, southern, eastern and western plants growing together here. Most common is the ponderosa pine, a tall pine tree with reddish bark, and which smells sweet like vanilla or butterscotch. In the Black Hills, ponderosas grow on dry, rocky slopes, particularly south-facing slopes. Aspen, birch, oak and spruce also grow in the Black Hills, creating smaller forest communities. Wildflowers are common in the area, as well. The goldenpea blooms from late April through August; look for it in grassy areas along the Avenue of Flags. Purple coneflowers bloom during June and July, and can be seen throughout the area. The native Rocky Mountain iris blooms from May to June, and the harebell blooms from June to September.