Swamp Doghobble
Swamp doghobble (Eubotrys racemosus) is a native flowering wetland shrub that is blooming now on Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. It grows to a height of 6 feet. The bell-shaped flowers are borne in dense rows along the plants’ twigs. The flowers are used by bumble bees and other pollinating insects. The dense branches provide good nesting habitat for songbirds. It will only survive in soils that are saturated. It is tolerant of shade in open forest stands. The name is supposed to refer the tangle of rooted branches, vines and sharp leaves which can create a barrier for hunting dogs running after deer, bear or other creatures.
