People have long been drawn to the unique and bizarre nature of carnivorous plants. There’s the Venus Flytrap with hinged leaves that snap shut around its prey. The sundew that lures insects with sticky gel secreted on its leaves. The pitcher plant with modified leaves known as pitfall traps. The coastal Carolinas is the only place in the world where Venus Flytraps can be found in the wild and it’s one of the country’s best regions to observe carnivorous plants in their natural habitat.
In addition to delving into the unique world of carnivorous plants, we’ll explore stunningly beautiful coastal saltmarshes, ancient bald cypress swamps, and the cultural richness and history of Charleston, South Carolina.
Join Mae Lin Plummer, Director of The IDEA Center for Public Gardens, along with renowned local botanist Paula Gross and Ed Davis, native plant expert and Associate Director of UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens, in May for an unforgettable trip to the coastal Carolina’s botanical and cultural hotspots.
Upon afternoon arrival to Charlotte, our hosts Mae Lin Plummer and Paula Gross will transfer us to our hotel conveniently located close to the UNC – Charlotte campus. This evening, we’ll enjoy an immersive carnivorous plant workshop and barbecue dinner at Charlotte Botanical Gardens. There’s also time to explore the 10-acre gardens on site.
Accommodations: Home2 Suites Charlotte University Research Park
Meals: Dinner
Plan to arrive to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) by 3:30 pm today.