United States

Department

of Agriculture

Forest Service

Southern

Research

Station

General

Technical

Report

SRS–87

United States

Department

of the Interior

National 

Park Service
Galax (Galax urceolata)

is an important product in the

international floral industry.

Cover photograph by Thomas G. Barnes

THE AUTHORS:

Mary L. Predny, Research Associate, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State 

University, Wood Science and Forest Products Department, Blacksburg, VA 24061.

James L. Chamberlain, Research Scientist, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 

Forest Service, Southern Research Station, Blacksburg, VA 24060.
i

Galax (Galax urceolata): 

Annotated Bibliograph

Mary L. Predny and James L. Cham
ii
iii

Botany and Ecology .............................................................

Uses .......................................................................................

Social History .......................................................................

Market Trends......................................................................

Conservation ........................................................................

Discussion .............................................................................

Acknowledgments ................................................................

Literature Cited ...................................................................

Annotated Bibliography ......................................................

Research Literature ............................................................

Popular Press ......................................................................

Other Information Sources.................................................

Commercial Vendors ..........................................................

Author Index ........................................................................

Subject Index........................................................................

Disclaimers ...........................................................................
iv
1

Mary L. Predny and James L. Chamb

Abstract

Galax (Galax urceolata) is an evergreen groundcover harvested for use in th

The plant’s durable, shiny green leaves turn red in the fall and are popular ba

in floral arrangements. People living in the mountains of North Carolina and 

Appalachian locations have harvested (pulled) galax to supplement their inc

the 20th century; however, over the last decade, Hispanic laborers have large

harvesters. Today, more than 90 percent of the harvesters are of Hispanic ori

experienced harvester can pull approximately 5,000 leaves a day; the value o

range from $20 to $120. Prices vary depending on the season, the size and c

and market demand. Industry concern for the availability or sustainability of 

prompted the USDA Forest Service to restrict the harvest season. Since 200

allowed from May 1st through June 15th when new leaves are emerging. The 

Service and the National Park Service are both conducting research to deter

harvest levels.

Keywords: Conservation, floral industry, galax, nontimber forest products, p

Nomenclature

Galax (Galax urceolata), a member of the Diapensiaceae fam

common evergreen perennial that occurs throughout the Cen

Southern Appalachian Mountains. In the floral industry, the p

as galax, though wildflower enthusiasts and landscapers also 

common names wandflower or beetleweed (Encyclopaedia B

Fern 1997–2000). The recognized scientific name is Galax u

Brummitt, though in older literature the plant is occasionally 

G. aphylla auct. non. L. or G. rotundifolia (Evans 2000, Reed 

Botany and Ecology

Galax is an herbaceous groundcover with glossy green, leath

shaped leaves (fig. 1). Leaves have a serrate margin and a 3- 

diameter when mature. Each leaf has a thin, 3- to 6-inch-tall 

1983, Reed 1999–2002). In late spring and early summer, the 

small white flowers on a raceme that can reach 20 inches tall 

State Museum 2003, Reed 1999–2002, Slaby 2002). Roots c

horizontal rhizomes (Anon. 1983).
2

The ideal galax habitat is a cool, moist site with partial shade 

with high organic content (Anon. 1983, Evans 2000, Fern 199

though plants can be found thriving in various habitats, inclu

chestnut oak (Quercus prinus) forests or high-elevation red o

forests.1

The NatureServe Explorer (2002) database indicates that the 

extends north into Maryland and West Virginia, west to Kentu

through the Appalachian Mountains to Georgia and Alabama 

species is considered exotic in Massachusetts, New York, Ohi

District of Columbia and is not known to occur north of Mary

Virginia (NatureServe Explorer 2002, Sorrie and Somers 199

Carolina, where it seems to be most prevalently collected, gal

found throughout the State but prefers the mountains in the w

Plants are hardy in zones 5A to 8A (Horticopia, Inc. 2001). T

heritage status rank is G5, and the national heritage status ran

meaning that galax is currently secure within its range (Natur

Explorer 2002).

Galax can be propagated by root division or by seed. Divided 

should be planted in early fall or spring by positioning them h

approximately 1 inch below the soil surface (Anon. 1983, Sla

1

 Personal communication. 2003. Gary Kauffman, Botanist Forest Products 

Forest Service, National Forests in North Carolina, Asheville, NC 28804.

Figure 1—Galax plant (Britton and Brown

1913).
3

According to Fern (1997–2000), seed should be sown in cold 

early spring or fall and then planted out in the second year af

have hardened off. In North Carolina, Bir and Deyton (n.d.) h

research into propagation methods for large-scale cultivation

show that rhizome cuttings were more successful sprouting le

when soaked in room-temperature water overnight before pla

Treatments with various concentrations of rooting hormones 

the number of leaves and roots that were produced but did lea

increase in the size of roots 6 months after planting. Propagat

was recommended as more practical than rhizome cuttings fo

cultivation. Transplants require organic matter such as old saw

crushed leaves and shade cloth in order to thrive.

Several studies have examined the genetic makeup of the spe

particularly the natural occurrence of three cytotypes (numbe

Figure 2—Galax distribution and conservation status [adapted from Natu

Explorer (2002) and U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource C

Service (2001)].
4

yyp, p

suggests that throughout the Blue Ridge escarpment (southw

western North Carolina, eastern Tennessee, and northern Geo

are more common in xeric areas, and tetraploids are more com

areas. Research by Burton and Husband (1999) found that po

along the Blue Ridge that consisted of all one cytotype tende

or tetraploid, but never triploid. Populations that were a mix o

cytotypes varied in composition, but triploids were always in 

Although all three cytotypes were found throughout the Blue 

Mountain Range, diploids were more commonly found in the 

less in the southwest. These findings indicate that there is chr

selectivity in reproduction, and that both genetic and ecologic

contribute to cytotype abundance and occurrence (Burton and 

1999).

One of the distinguishing characteristics of galax is its odor (

Appalachian State Museum 2003). Many people comment th

smell like skunk or mold. According to Amoroso (2002), the 

odor is still unknown. Speculation has linked it to chemical c

long sulfur chains such as mercaptan or butyl-thiols (which a

the chemicals found in a skunk’s scent) emitted from the stom

the decomposing leaves.

Another distinguishing factor, one that makes galax particula

with the floral industry, is the burnt red color that the leaves t

(Noland 1997). This color, which can be described as red, bro

brown, is caused by the presence of the pigment anthocyanin

leaves or portions of leaves that are exposed to sun will produ

anthocyanin to change color when temperatures drop in the f

Neufeld (2002) explains this phenomenon, stating that unlike 

which change color in the fall due to a loss of chlorophyll, th

levels in galax leaves remain the same whereas anthocyanin l

He suggests that the increase in anthocyanin may help protec

cold temperatures and offers several hypotheses about the che

processes and mechanisms for this adaptation.

Uses

Galax is in high demand in the floral industry because its attr

leaves are sturdy and can be stored for weeks, even months (N
5

ppgg

(Noland 1997). Leaves may also be hot-glued onto a plastic t

to make a “floral rose.” Leaves are sometimes sown together 

tablecloths for weddings or blankets for funeral caskets.2

Galax plants can also be used in landscaping, particularly in a

damp and shady or prone to erosion (Anon. 1983). Galax has 

cultivated in plant nurseries since the late 1800s (Smithsonian 

Libraries 2001), though it is infrequently used and not cultiva

large scale.2

Native Americans used galax to heal cuts and treat kidney ail

nervous conditions, though these medicinal uses are not com

(Fern 1997–2000, Hamel and Chiltoskey 1975).

Social History

The name galax comes from the Greek word “gala,” meaning 

recognition of the plant’s raceme of white blooms (Galax-Car

Chamber of Commerce, n.d.). In the early 1900s, small town

center of the galax industry in southwestern Virginia and nort

North Carolina relied on the sale of galax leaves for their sup

According to one legend, an official from the Norfolk and We

Company who observed this suggested that one of the towns 

Galax. In 1906, the Virginia General Assembly officially char

of Galax, VA (Anon. 2000).

People living in the mountains of North Carolina and other ru

Appalachian regions have harvested galax to supplement thei

since before the turn of the 20th century (Guerrant 1910). Tod

pickers are Hispanic. Galax dealers suggest that the first Hisp

in western North Carolina in the late 1980s. According to Gre

Davis,2 area nurseries hiring Hispanic laborers encouraged th

galax in the off-season. Greenfield and Davis2 suggest that du

10 years, the Hispanic community has grown approximately 

2

 Greenfield, J.; Davis, J. 2003. Western North Carolina nontimber forest pro

appendices. Draft final report. On file with: USDA Forest Service, Southern 

1650 Ramble Road, Blacksburg, VA 24060.
6

gp(

Market Trends

In the early 1900s, pickers received from $0.15 to $0.25 per 1

leaves (Guerrant 1910). In comparison, harvesters received ap

$10.00 per 1,000 leaves in July 2002 (see footnote 2). Galax 

typically bundle 25 leaves together and pack the bundles in b

to hold either 2,500 or 5,000 leaves (Ronald Jones Ferneries, 

Floral Company, n.d.; United Galax, n.d.). In July 2002, harv

around $0.01 to $0.02 per leaf, or $50 per box of 5,000 leave

2). In 2001, the highest price paid to harvesters was around $

5,000 leaves, whereas the lowest price was around $20 per bo

2). According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (2002), t

terminal market in Philadelphia ranged from $0.85 to $1.25 f

25 leaves. A Florida-based wholesale mail-order company rec

galax at $2.25 per bundle of 25 leaves (see footnote 2). Accor

from an Internet search of wholesalers we conducted in 2002

landscape plants sold in pots varied from $3.90 for a 5-inch p

a half-gallon pot (Eastern Plant Specialties, n.d.; Fraser’s Thim

n.d.; Gardens of the Blue Ridge, n.d.; Rock Island Wildflowe

Shooting Star Nursery, n.d.).

In July 2002, 11 galax dealers were identified in North Carol

number had declined to nine as of January 2003 (see footnote 

decrease in the number of dealers is indicative of the industry

firms move into and out of the market fairly regularly. Most o

are located in Yancey and Avery Counties, NC. Interviews wi

North Carolina revealed that most of the harvest occurs in nin

Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Tran

Watauga, and Yancey with some harvest also observed in Jack

Macon Counties. The dealers indicated that most of the harve

place on public lands (see footnote 2).

Conservation

Concern for the conservation of galax has been raised in a nu

forums. The popular press has covered galax on several occas
7

y p

a severe problem with galax poaching in the national forests o

Carolina. For example, although the 2001 report does not giv

count of galax theft incidents, it does suggest that almost all o

forest product theft occurrences involved galax or American 

quinquefolius) (Gregory 2001).

In 2001, the National Park Service reported several incidents 

Ridge Parkway that resulted in arrests of poachers. According 

(2001a), in February 2001 approximately 17,800 galax stems 

estimated value of around $800 wholesale or $4,000 retail we

one incident. The poacher received a sentence of 45 days in p

years probation. Several additional incidents of galax poachin

occurred throughout the year with as many as 14 individuals 

over 60,000 stems confiscated. Individuals were required to a

and pay fines or serve jail sentences based on the severity of 

the individual’s history (Garrison 2001a–2001d). The same y

poachers were apprehended on private land at Grandfather M

North Carolina (Anon. 2001).

Although galax collection is illegal on the Blue Ridge Parkw

national park lands, it is legal to harvest on portions of nation

with a permit. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Ser

lists galax as an “other forest product” in its list of salable pro

According to a report by Robbins (1999), 459 galax permits w

1995, 630 in 1996, and 544 in 1997 for the Cherokee (TN), P

and Nantahala (NC) National Forests. The majority of these p

sold in the Pisgah National Forest. Discussions with Forest S

indicate an increasing trend in permit issuances over the last 

In 2001, as a result of the increased harvest pressure and con

industry members about the sustainability of galax resources

Forest Service implemented a seasonal harvest restriction. No 

is permitted between May 1 and June 15 when new leaves are 

are particularly susceptible to damage from trampling. Prohib

harvest during this period does not reduce the number of leav

harvest; it simply protects the immature young leaves and the

increases the ability of plant populations to recover from the 

caused by harvesters (Bradley and Seyden 2001). In recent in

several dealers indicated that a longer restricted season would 
8

ppy gy

nontimber forest products including galax (Kauffman and oth

foundation for the study was the recognition that there had be

increase in the issuance of galax permits over the previous 5 y

particularly to new individuals who may not use traditional lo

harvest methods. There are concerns that patches of galax are 

of large leaves faster than the rate of regeneration (Kauffman 

n.d.). No results are yet available from this study, but informa

has been done. The authors recommend that annual checks be 

spring to determine if the harvest season needs to be modifie

The NPS has also started studying the impact of harvesting o

populations. In the first year of the study, Ulrey (2001) establ

two 1-meter-square permanent sample plots along the Blue R

Locations for these plots were selected based on three criteria

of collection, remote or inconspicuous locales, and well-deve

As many large leaves (> 3 inches in diameter) as possible wer

from selected plots. Removal rates were calculated by compa

number of harvested leaves to the number of leaves retained i

Although insufficient time has passed to provide definitive re

discussions with the principal investigator of this project indi

harvesting is not having a significant impact on these populat

To deter poaching on national park land, the NPS has implem

tagging/marking program for several nontimber products incl

Under the program, galax plants are sprayed with an adhesive 

dusted with microtaggant, a six-layer polymer that bears a “si

coding. Using this method, plants in areas where harvesting i

marked and can be tracked back to their source if they are co

sold. This program is also being implemented on USDA Fore

lands that do not allow harvest, such as designated wildernes

interest areas (see footnote 2) (Nickens 2001).

The rising use of unsustainable harvest methods has also incr

conservation concerns. Traditional galax harvesters pulled or 

from the plants individually, leaving the rhizomes in the grou

undisturbed. This method of harvest is time consuming but d

damage done to plants and allows for regeneration for future 

harvesters today opt to pull up whole plants by the roots and 
9

y 

Service to educate pickers. Deyton (2001), an agricultural ex

in Yancey County, NC, has prepared an instructional bulletin 

details about obtaining a permit for collection on Forest Serv

desired leaf qualities, and picking techniques. Under the curr

USDA Forest Service permits cost $25 and are good for 30 d

pounds of galax leaves. Harvested leaves should be at least 3 

diameter with 3 inches of stem and no roots attached. Deyton 

additional recommendations for harvesting and packaging, in

desired leaf qualities and bundling procedures.

Discussion

The information available on galax is primarily focused on bo

ecology, particularly the distribution and ecological preferenc

Although less is known about the social, economic, and mark

that affect the species, there is a growing body of knowledge 

experience. Traditionally harvested by local mountain residen

now mostly collected by Hispanic laborers. In some cases, th

tensions between community members and may have resulted 

illegal harvesting. Although some harvesters depend on the s

their primary source of income, most use the revenues to sup

income from other sources. Most galax is harvested from nin

western North Carolina; about nine wholesale enterprises loc

buy leaves, most of which are exported to Europe for the flor

There is a general lack of information about the impact of ha

or associated species. Both the USDA Forest Service and the 

examining these issues and trying to determine sustainable ha

though these studies have just gotten underway and have not 

sufficient data to draw conclusions. In general, forest manage

botanists are concerned about the impact of harvesting; howe

agree that there is not enough information to definitively stat

harvesting is having a negative impact on plant populations. M

managers believe that although harvesting may be impacting 

populations, little, if any, impact has occurred throughout the 

species.
10

Institute and State University (College of Natural Resources, 

Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24060), under Cooperative Agreement 

01-CA-11330142-522; and the National Park Service (Shena

Park, Luray, VA 22835), under Cooperative Agreement numb

11330142-283. This research was supported by funds provid

Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Researc

Asheville, NC.

The authors express their sincere appreciation to Pat Ford (Bo

Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Scientific Authority) a

Kauffman (Special Forest Products Specialist, National Fores

Carolina) for their diligence and hard work in reviewing this 

effort that helped to ensure its quality of coverage.

Literature Cited

Amoroso, J. 2002. Wild ideas: the odor of galax. Chinquapin. 10(2): 12.

Anon. 1983. Wandflower shines in the shade. Southern Living. 18: 67.

Anon. 2000. Galax, VA: a small Appalachian town steeped in music. Galax-

Chamber of Commerce. Parkway Milepost. Spring: 9.

Anon. 2001. Galax: a pretty problem. The Grandfather Journal. February 23

paged].

Appalachian State Museum. 2003. Galax. Kimberly J. Hampton Steward m

the garden chronicles. http://www.museum.appstate.edu/kimmem/galax/p

[Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Bir, D.; Deyton, C. [n.d.]. Domesticating galax. http://www.cals.ncsu.edu/sp

pubs/bir.html. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Bradley, P.; Seyden, T. 2001. Spring harvesting of galax to be restricted. Na

North Carolina News Release. February 28, 2001. http://www.cs.unca.ed

galax_release.htm. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Burton, T. 1999. Polyploidy establishment in Galax urceolata. University of 

Canada: Plant Population and Evolution Research Laboratory. 1 p. http://

botany/research/evollab/galaxpr.htm. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Burton, T.L.; Husband, B.C. 1999. Population cytotype structure in the pol

urceolata (Diapensiaceae). Heredity. 82: 381-390.

Deyton, C. 2001. Procedures for harvesting and selling galax. 1 p. Unpublis

file with: North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, Yancey County

Burnsville, NC 28714.
11

Encyclopaedia Britannica. 2003. Diapensiales. http://www.britannica.com/

article?eu=30773. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Evans, E. 2000. Galax aphylla. Consumer Horticulture Plant Fact Sheets: w

Raleigh, NC: North Carolina State University. 1 p. http://www.ces.ncsu.e

consumer/factsheets/wildflowers/galax_aphylla.html. [Date accessed: Jan

Fern, K. 1997-2000. Plants for a future: the species database. http://www.ib

bin/arr_html?Galax+urceolata&CAN=LATIND [Date accessed: May 24, 

Fraser’s Thimble Farms. [n.d.]. Galax. Salt Spring Island, Canada. http://

www.thimblefarms.com/index.html. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Galax-Carroll-Grayson Chamber of Commerce. [n.d.]. The galax leaf. htt

www.gcgchamber.com/leaf.htm. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Gardens of the Blue Ridge. [n.d.]. Galax. Pineola, NC. http://

www.gardensoftheblueridge.com/. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Garrison, J. 2001a. Blue Ridge Parkway (NC/VA) - poaching arrests. Natio

Morning Report. Friday, February 9: 01-044. http://data2.itc.nps.gov/mor

archives.cfm. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Garrison, J. 2001b. Blue Ridge Parkway (NC/TN) - poaching arrests. Natio

Morning Report. Wednesday, February 14: 01-050. http://data2.itc.nps.go

archives.cfm. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Garrison, J. 2001c. Blue Ridge Parkway (NC/VA) - galax theft convictions. 

Service Morning Report. Monday, August 13: 01-440. http://data2.itc.np

morningreport/archives.cfm. [Date accessed January 2, 2004].

Garrison, J. 2001d. Blue Ridge Parkway (NC/VA) - poaching arrests. Natio

Morning Report. Friday, November 9: 01-596. http://data2.itc.nps.gov/m

archives.cfm. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Gregory, J.L. 2001. Annual timber protocol report – region 8. 22 p. Admini

file with: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Rese

Ramble Road, Blacksburg, VA 24060.

Guerrant, E. 1910. The galax gatherers: the gospel among the highlanders. 

Onward Press. 220 p.

Hamel, P.; Chiltoskey, M. 1975. Cherokee plants: their uses – a 400-year hi

Herald Publishing. 72 p.

Horticopia, Inc. 2001. Galax urceolata. Horticopia Plant Information. http:

www.horticopia.com/hortpix/html/pc2571.htm. [Date accessed: May 24, 

Kauffman, G.; Danley, D. [n.d.]. Restriction on galax gathering season. Un

p. On file with: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern 

1650 Ramble Road, Blacksburg, VA 24060.
12

p

NatureServe Explorer. 2002. An online encyclopedia of life [Web applicati

Arlington, VA: NatureServe. http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. [Date 

2, 2004].

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Systematic Botany. 8(1): 1-14.

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1-2, 5.

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March. http://www.nwf.org/nationalwildlife/article.cfm?articleId=310&i

accessed: January 2, 2004].

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[Page number unknown].

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[Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

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harvested in the United States for medicinal use and trade and evaluation 

conservation and management implications. Prepared by TRAFFIC Nort

Nature Conservancy. http://www.nps.gov/plants/medicinal/pubs/traffic.ht

January 2, 2004].

Rock Island Wildflowers. [n.d.]. Galax. Rock Island, TN. http://

www.rockislandwildflowers.com/main.asp. [Date accessed: January 2, 20

Ronald Jones Ferneries. [n.d.]. Galax. Pierson, FL. http://www.volusia.com

[Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Shooting Star Nursery. [n.d.]. Galax. http://www.shootingstarnursery.com/

January 2, 2004].

Slaby, P. 2002. Galax urceolata. Rock garden plant database. http://web.kad

kvCard.asp?Id=1051. [Date accessed: May 24, 2004].

Sluder Floral Company. [n.d.]. Galax. http://www.sluderfloral.com/galax/. 

January 2, 2004].

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industry: biographies. Washington, DC: Smithsonian Institute Libraries. 

www.sil.si.edu/SILPublications/seeds/kelseyharlan-p.html. [Date accesse

2004].

Sorrie, B.; Somers, P. 1999. The vascular plants of Massachusetts: a county 

Westborough, MA: Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, Na

Program & Endangered Species Program. 187 p.
13

Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station, SRS-4702, 1650 

Blacksburg, VA 24060.

United Galax. [n.d.]. Galax. http://www.treefern.com/unitedgalax/. [Date ac

2004].

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Service Handbook. FSH 2409.18. Chapter 80. http://www.fs.fed.us/cgi-b

get_dirs/fsh?2409.18. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

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25(24): 4.

Annotated Bibliography

Research Literature

Amoroso, J. 2002. Wild ideas: the odor of galax. Chinquapin

Reviews speculations by several professionals about the sour

strange smell associated with galax leaves. Common ideas fo

the musky odor include bacteria or fungi associated with the 

decay. Neither the exact source of the odor nor the chemicals 

odor are known. Individual leaves, when collected or crushed

the odor. Dr. Howard Neufeld, a plant physiologist at Appalac

University, set up a carbon trap to determine if the volatile co

causing the odor were amine or selenium. No definitive resul

obtained, so Dr. Neufeld developed a new hypothesis that the 

from sulfur compounds such as mercaptan. Alice Zawadzki, P

Emeritus of chemistry at St. Mary’s College, finds the odor s

a skunk and proposes a similar chemistry involving butyl thio

other thiol (skunk odor is n-butyl mercaptan or a butyl-thiol c

These compounds have a low vapor pressure and stay low to 

increase diffusion as temperatures rise in August. Long-chain 

compounds produce no smell in living leaves, but, as dead le

decompose, these compounds would be broken down and rele

the skunky odor.

Keywords: Chemical constituents, odor, research.
14

Summarizes packaging information from United Galax, a gal

Leaves are bundled into bunches of 25 and packed in boxes in 

grades: Brown, Purple, and Special. Galax leaves per pound: 

Purple- 212; Special- 174.

Keywords: Floral uses, packaging.

Bir, D.; Deyton, C. [N.d.]. Domesticating galax. http://www.

specialty_crops/pubs/bir.html. [Date accessed: January 2, 2

Summarizes research on galax cultivation techniques. Transp

organic matter and shade in order to thrive. Seeds do not requ

scarification or stratification. Rhizome cuttings are more suc

soaked in room-temperature water overnight before planting. 

concentrations of rooting hormones showed no effect on the n

leaves and roots produced by rhizomes, though rhizomes that 

treated with hormones had larger root systems than untreated 

months after planting. No positive results were observed from 

experiments. The authors conclude that propagation by seed i

practical than rhizome cuttings or tissue culture for large-scal

Keywords: Cultivation, propagation, research, rhizomes, seed

culture.

Burton, T. 1999. Polyploidy establishment in Galax urceolat

of Guelph, Ontario, Canada: Plant Population and Evolutio

Laboratory. 1 p. http://www.uoguelph.ca/botany/research/e

galaxpr.htm. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Describes doctoral research on the evolution, reproduction, a

of polyploidy in natural populations of galax.

Keywords: Cytotypes, polyploidy, research.

Burton, T.L.; Husband, B.C. 1999. Population cytotype stru

polyploid Galax urceolata (Diapensiaceae). Heredity. 82: 
15

gp, yyp, p

only one, and 26 percent contain three. Diploids are more com

northeastern part of the range and less common in the southw

are present, they are always a minority in number and never f

cytotype populations. Diploids or tetraploids are dominant in 

populations, though the distribution is not evenly mixed and 

disruptive chromosome selection in reproduction. These resu

both genetic and ecological variables determine cytotype abu

on previous research and theories, sampling methods, results

discussion are included, along with a distribution map and tab

Keywords: Cytotypes, distribution, polyploidy, research.

Gregory, J.L. 2001. Annual timber protocol report – region 8

Administrative report. On file with: U.S. Department of A

Forest Service, Southern Research Station, 1650 Ramble R

Blacksburg, VA 24060.

Reports a total of 203 forest product theft incidents in 2001. T

number of incidents involving galax is not specified, though t

indicates that the majority of the thefts involved galax or Am

(Panax quinquefolius). The estimated value of forest product 

was $322,250.

Keyword: Poaching.

Kauffman, G.; Danley, D. [n.d.]. Restriction on galax gather

Unpublished report. 4 p. On file with: U.S. Department of 

Forest Service, Southern Research Station, 1650 Ramble R

Blacksburg, VA 24060.

Suggests the need to restrict galax harvest during the spring, 

research into the galax life cycle. Galax has been harvested in 

Appalachians for the last century; the leaves are gathered yea

used in floral decorations and wreaths. Details are given on th

characteristics, polyploidy types and habits, and growth range

considered to be secure, with a global heritage status rank of 

young leaves are emerging in spring, they are more susceptib

from trampling because they have not had a chance to harden 

during the spring period can have long-term effects, reducing 
16

y, , g

Kauffman, G.L.; Danley, D.; Simon, S.A.; McNab, W.H. 2

Experimental harvest of Fraser-fir, log moss, and galax: de

growth and yield. In: Kauffman, G., comp., ed. Forest bota

program of work: maintaining sustainability and respondin

economic needs in the Southern Appalachians. [Place of p

unknown]: National Forests of North Carolina. 31 p.

Emphasizes the need to research galax in North Carolina fore

since the late 1980s, the national forests have sold more perm

gathering galax than for any other botanical product. Due to a

the number of permits sold and the growing number of new “

are not using conservative methods to collect leaves, it is nec

restrict the harvest season during the spring when new growth 

Gatherers and researchers are concerned that patches of galax 

stripped of large leaves faster than they can be replaced and t

harvest levels are not sustainable. More research is needed to 

ability of galax populations to withstand the increasing harve

Details are given on the plan to establish long-term monitorin

expose them to various harvest levels and techniques to deter

limitations for sustainable practices.

Keywords: Harvest, permits, research, sustainability.

Nesom, G.L. 1983. Galax (Diapensiaceae): geographic varia

chromosome number. Systematic Botany. 8(1): 1-14.

Investigates geographical distribution of diploid and tetraploi

galax. Tetraploids are more abundant along the Blue Ridge es

region, though diploids are most abundant throughout the res

There is no definite difference in habitat preference for the cy

though it appears that diploids are more common in xeric are

tetraploids are more common in mesic areas of the Blue Ridg

A detailed background, materials and methods, results, and d

provided along with several tables and distribution maps.

Keywords: Cytotypes, distribution, polyploidy, research.
17

yp, pg

leaves to turn reddish hues in winter. Anthocyanin is a red pig

many flowers, fruits, and leaves as they change color in fall. U

red pigments such as carotenes and betalains, anthocyanins c

with variations in pH. Exposure to sun is also necessary for a

production; leaves or portions of leaves that are shaded will r

In the leaves of most trees that turn red in the fall, the color c

result of chlorophyll loss; in galax, however, chlorophyll leve

same while anthocyanin levels increase. The benefits of this p

unknown, but there are several hypotheses. The rise in levels 

may protect leaves against low-temperature photoinhibition (

caused by low temperatures and high light levels) by lowering

photosynthesis rates, reducing light compensation points, and 

sensitive tissues against damaging ultraviolet radiation. Antho

also act as an antioxidant, reducing reactive oxygen radicals p

cold winter temperatures. Lastly, it may enhance cold toleran

lowering the freezing point of cell sap. These various chemic

discussed in detail, along with the adaptive purposes and sug

evolutionary roles.

Keywords: Anthocyanin, leaf color, research, sun requiremen

Robbins, C. 1999. Medicine from U.S. wildlands: an assessm

plant species harvested in the United States for medicinal u

and evaluation of the conservation and management implic

Prepared by TRAFFIC North America for the Nature Cons

www.nps.gov/plants/medicinal/pubs/traffic.htm. [Date acc

2, 2004].

Discusses conservation issues for several valuable plants. Per

galax in the Cherokee (Tennessee), Pisgah, and Nantahala (N

National Forests totaled 449 in 1995, 630 in 1996, and 548 in 

Keywords: Conservation, harvest, permits.

Sobieraj, J.H.; McCarron, J.K.; Neufeld, H.S. [n.d.]. Hydr

of Galax urceolata, an evergreen, understory herb of the S

Appalachians. http://abstracts.allenpress.com/esa/web2000

HOW-3-32-21.html. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].
18

ggp

conductivity in both young and old leaves. No differences we

between the first-and second-year leaves. Galax plants were a

water flow to leaves even under severe drought conditions.

Keywords: Drought tolerance, research, water requirements.

Soltis, D.E.; Bohm, B.A.; Nesom, G.L. 1983. Flavonoid che

cytotypes in galax (Diapensiaceae). Systematic Botany. 8(

Investigates the chemical structure of galax in relation to cyto

significant differences in flavonoid levels are found among th

tetraploid cytotypes, suggesting autopolyploidal origins for th

cytotypes. Detailed materials and methods, results, and discu

included along with several tables.

Keywords: Chemical constituents, cytotypes, flavonoids, rese

Ulrey, C. 2001. Summary of first-year (2001) results from ga

study. Blue Ridge Parkway, National Park Service. 4 p. Un

report. On file with: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Fore

Southern Research Station, SRS-4702, 1650 Ramble Road

VA 24060.

Summarizes the first year of a study on the impact of galax h

remote locations along the Blue Ridge Parkway, researchers e

sample plots in well-developed galax patches that showed no 

previous harvest. Plots were harvested (pulling leaves by the 

remaining plants counted to determine removal rates. Several 

control plots were established for comparison. Results from t

showed that although harvest targeted larger leaves, many roo

and smaller leaves were inadvertently pulled also. This may a

of the plants to re-establish. The plots will be monitored annu

complete regeneration is achieved.

Keywords: Blue Ridge Parkway, conservation, harvest, monit

research, sustainability.
19

pppp

Anon. 1983. Wandflower shines in the shade. Southern Livin

Provides guidelines for using galax in the landscape. Called b

name wandflower, the glossy leaves of this groundcover add c

texture, particularly in damp, shady areas. Each leaf is rounde

toothed, on a stem that reaches up to 8 inches in height. In sp

summer, leaves are a deep green color but change to bronze, 

tones in winter. Plants spread by runners and can form dense 

common name wandflower comes from the blooms, which ar

inch-tall spikes with tiny white flowers. Suggested areas for w

include shady rock gardens, woodland gardens, around azalea

rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.), and on shady hillsides 

erosion. In the northern parts of its range, the plant can tolera

Galax can be propagated from seeds sown in a cold frame in 

rhizomes planted and mulched in fall or spring. Specific deta

provided on soil requirements, propagation, and cultivation.

Keywords: Cultivation, flowers, habitat, landscape uses, leaf 

propagation.

Anon. 2000. Galax, VA: a small Appalachian town steeped in 

Carroll-Grayson Chamber of Commerce. Parkway Milepo

Summarizes the history and other special interests for the tow

Virginia. This article reveals that the large trade in galax leav

several small towns in the area and was the origin of the town 

1905, an official from the Norfolk Railway Company suggest

town Galax after seeing railway cars at the depot full of the g

leaves ready to be shipped all over the country.

Keywords: Galax, Virginia; history.

Anon. 2001. Galax: a pretty problem. The Grandfather Journ

23, 2001. [Not paged].

Comments on the problem of galax poaching on Grandfather 

North Carolina. In 2001, four poachers were caught taking ga

Grandfather Mountain. It is believed that many others have ta
20

Appalachian State Museum. 2003. Galax. Kimberly J. Ham

memorial garden: the garden chronicles. http://www.museu

edu/kimmem/galax/pages/galax.html. [Date accessed: Janu

Provides a brief description and picture of galax. Galax is a c

groundcover throughout the Southern Appalachian Mountain

member of the same family (Diapensiaceae) as Oconee bells 

galacifolia) and Pixie moss (Pyxidanthera barbulata). The he

glossy green, leathery leaves are used by florists in Christmas 

Plants have a distinct musky odor.

Keywords: Diapensiaceae family, floral uses, odor.

Bradley, P.; Seyden, T. 2001. Spring harvesting of galax to b

National Forests in North Carolina News Release. Februar

http://www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/press/galax_release.htm. [D

January 2, 2004].

Announces the restriction of the galax harvest season during 

months of May 1 through June 15 due to concerns that harve

this time can damage newly emerging leaves, thus reducing r

The U.S. Forest Service implemented this restriction in respo

raised by galax buyers and wholesalers about the sustainabili

harvesting and the future of the industry. The dates chosen fo

are believed to protect plants at both low and high elevations 

mature at different times. This restriction does not reduce the 

leaves available for harvest, but protects young leaves from b

and allows them to harden off so that they are better able to re

disturbance of harvesting.

Keywords: Conservation, floral industry, harvest restriction, s

Deyton, C. 2001. Procedures for harvesting and selling galax

Unpublished document. On file with: North Carolina Coop

Extension Service, Yancey County, 10 Orchard Dr., Burnsv

28714.

Outlines procedures and regulations for individuals harvestin

public lands. Details are given for obtaining a permit from th
21

, 

stacked face-up and tied in bunches of 25. Two hundred bunc

grouped into one box (5,000 leaves). Boxes should be kept co

The Cooperative Extension Service offers more information i

of buyers.

Keywords: Harvest, packaging, permits, regulations.

Ellison, Q. 2002. Galax harvest halted for spring. Asheville C

Monday, June 17. http://www.citizen-times.com/news/031

[Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Announces the restriction of the galax harvest season during 

months of May 1 through June 15.

Keywords: Harvest restriction, media coverage.

Galax-Carroll-Grayson Chamber of Commerce. [n.d.]. Th

http://www.gcgchamber.com/leaf.htm. [Date accessed: Jan

Highlights the popularity and importance of galax in southwe

The name galax is derived from the word “gala,” Greek for “s

milk,” which the plant’s white blooms resemble. Galax is use

industry and has been an important part of the economy arou

that bears its name—Galax, VA.

Keywords: Floral industry, Galax, Virginia; history, nomencla

Garrison, J. 2001a. Blue Ridge Parkway (NC/VA) - poachin

National Park Service Morning Report. Friday, February 9

http://data2.itc.nps.gov/morningreport/archives.cfm. [Date 

January 2, 2004].

Reports arrests of galax poachers on the Blue Ridge Parkway

was arrested with 17,800 galax stems from the Pisgah Distric

guilty and was sentenced to 45 days in prison and 2 years pro

value of the galax was $800 wholesale or $4,000 retail. Sever

citizen tip led to the arrest of five galax poachers in the High

2,700 stems were seized at the time of the arrest.

Keywords: Blue Ridge Parkway, poaching.
22

y , ]

Reports galax poaching on the Blue Ridge Parkway. On one o

rangers found a group of poachers in the Pisgah District. The 

and rangers confiscated the 20,000 stems left behind. Several 

five poachers were apprehended with 20,000 stems on the pa

time of the report, they were scheduled to appear in Federal m

court in Asheville, NC.

Keywords: Blue Ridge Parkway, poaching.

Garrison, J. 2001c. Blue Ridge Parkway (NC/VA) - galax th

National Park Service Morning Report. Monday, August 1

http://data2.itc.nps.gov/morningreport/archives.cfm. [Date 

January 2, 2004].

Reports the conviction of galax poachers on the Blue Ridge P

poachers were arrested on the parkway with 7,500 galax stem

found guilty in court and fined $1,200; one man received a 3

sentence. The two men had previous records for various crim

occasion, a man was arrested on the parkway with several tho

stems. After conviction, he was sentenced to a 2-month jail se

had two prior convictions for galax poaching.

Keywords: Blue Ridge Parkway, poaching.

Garrison, J. 2001d. Blue Ridge Parkway (NC/VA) - poachin

National Park Service Morning Report. Friday, November 

http://data2.itc.nps.gov/morningreport/archives.cfm. [Date 

January 2, 2004].

Reports the arrest of galax poachers on the Blue Ridge Parkw

poachers were arrested with 7,500 galax stems on the parkwa

Mitchell in North Carolina.

Keywords: Blue Ridge Parkway, poaching.

Guerrant, E. 1910. The galax gatherers: the gospel among th

Richmond, VA: Onward Press. 220 p.
23

gg

collect the small leaves that were used to decorate the houses 

families in other cities. For their labor, gatherers received $0.

1,000 leaves. Galax is only briefly mentioned in the text, whi

focuses on the subjects of community and religion.

Keywords: Harvesters, history, market prices.

Hamel, P.; Chiltoskey, M. 1975. Cherokee plants: their uses 

history. Sylva, NC: Herald Publishing. 72 p.

Provides thumbnail sketches of traditional uses of herbs by th

people. Includes conversations with elders in Cherokee, NC, 

explanation of the spiritual relationship of the Cherokee with 

environment.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, history, medicinal uses, traditional u

Nickens, T.E. 2001. Catching bandits in the Smokies. Nation

Federation. February/March. http://www.nwf.org/nationalw

article.cfm?articleId=310&issueId=65. [Date accessed: Jan

Reports on the poaching problem for several valuable plants 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The article also discu

actions taken by botanists and law enforcement to catch poac

protect the plants with details on marking methods and tracki

marked with microtaggant, a powder originally used in the ex

industry. The approximate value of galax is 1 penny per stem

months of 2000, 100,000 galax stems were seized along the B

Parkway.

Keywords: Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains Na

market prices, marking, microtaggant, poaching.

Ostendorff, J. 2001. Rangers crack down on galax poaching

Citizen Times. Feb 16: [Page number unknown].

Summarizes recent arrests and convictions of galax poachers 

the efforts of the U.S. Forest Service to deter poaching. Altho

to harvest galax with a permit on national forest lands, no har
24

y y g

leaves.

Keywords: Harvest, marking, media coverage, poaching.

Stallard, G.J. 1997. Galax aphylla – Diapensiaceae family. T

Appalachian Quarterly. 2(3): 71.

Gives a general description of galax with ecology, habitat, an

Keywords: Ecology, floral uses, habitat.

Stroupe, N. 2002. Restrictions placed on spring harvesting o

Mountain Times. March 21. [Page number unknown].

Announces the restriction of the galax harvest season during 

months of May 1 through June 15. The galax industry is impo

Southern Appalachian Mountains. Most of the modern harve

Hispanics who come to the area to work for Christmas tree gr

galax for money in the off-season. Leaves keep their deep col

texture for many months, making them desirable in the floral 

company in western North Carolina ships galax as far as Cali

Europe. In the spring when young leaves are emerging, they a

to damage from trampling. The harvest restriction will allow 

leaves to harden off, increasing the ability of the plants to reg

harvest. A forest ranger in the Appalachian District (including 

National Forest in parts of Yancey and Avery Counties) repor

500 permits per year for galax. Another ranger in the Grandfa

(also including the Pisgah National Forest in Avery and Wata

reported the sale of 300 permits per year. Local wholesalers p

galax than is allotted by the permit sales, indicating that there 

harvest occurring.

Keywords: Floral industry, harvest restriction, Hispanic harve

coverage, permits, poaching, sustainability.

Other Information Sources

The following are general materials that provide background 

information. Included are encyclopedias, fact sheets, historic

planting guides, herbal manuals, and other miscellaneous info
25

National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70874-4490 

Available at http://plants.usda.gov. [Date accessed: April 2

[No abstract].

Keyword: Botanical description.

Encyclopedia Britannica. 2003. Diapensiales. http://www.b

eb/article?eu=30773. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Describes traits of the Diapensiales order. Characteristics of t

shrubs and woody herbs found in this order include bisexual 

five sepals, stamens, and fused petals. The list of species incl

which has durable heart-shaped leaves commonly used in the 

Keywords: Diapensiaceae family, flowers.

Evans, E. 2000. Galax aphylla. Consumer Horticulture Plant 

wildflowers. Raleigh, NC: North Carolina State University

www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsheets/wildflow

galax_aphylla.html. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Provides brief growing requirements and a picture. Galax is a 

suited to cool, shady sites with moist soil. White blooms appe

spring or early summer.

Keywords: Flowers, habitat.

Fern, K. 1997-2000. Plants for a future: the species database

www.ibiblio.org/pfaf/cgi-bin/arr_html?Galax+urceolata&C

[Date accessed: May 24, 2004].

Details the habitat, usage and cultivation of galax. Also know

beetleweed, this perennial grows in acidic, moist soils of vari

plant is mainly found in shaded areas, particularly woodlands 

mountains, and is hardy to zone 5. Galax can be used medicin

cuts and treat kidney troubles, though it is more commonly u

cover with attractive leaves that turn a bronze-red color in wi

Propagation can be done by root division or by seed. Seeds ar

cold frame in spring or fall, then transplanted into their perm
26

y, , g, p

medicinal uses, propagation, soil.

Horticopia, Inc. 2001. Galax urceolata. Horticopia Plant Inf

http://www.horticopia.com/hortpix/html/pc2571.htm. [Dat

May 24, 2004].

Describes the environment needed to grow galax in the lands

best in hardiness ranges 5A to 8A with full to partial shade an

Keywords: Habitat, hardiness range, landscape uses, sun requ

NatureServe Explorer. 2002. An online encyclopedia of life 

application]. Version 1.6. Arlington, VA: NatureServe. http

www.natureserve.org/explorer. [Date accessed: January 2, 

Presents scientific analysis of conservation status. Galax has 

heritage status rank of G5 and a national heritage status rank 

meaning that it is secure within its range. Distribution maps a

Keywords: Conservation, distribution, global heritage status r

heritage status rank, range.

Noland, D. 1997. Galax leaves. Introduction to floral design: 

identification and use. http://classes.aces.uiuc.edu/NRES1

[Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Provides general information on the use and handling of gala

florists. Leaves have a long vase life and are available year ro

is green in spring and summer, and green with burgundy edg

floral designs, galax leaves are used as a colorful background

or to frame the center of interest.

Keywords: Floral uses, handling, leaf color.

Reed, D. 1999-2002. Wildflowers of the Southeastern United 

2bnthewild.com. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Describes the attractive characteristics of galax. This herbace

has 6-inch-wide heart-shaped basal leaves with rounded teeth 

margins. Tough and leathery, the leaves turn a reddish-brown 
27

Keywords: Botanical description, flowers.

Slaby, P. 2002. Galax urceolata. Rock garden plant database. 

web.kadel.cz/flora/c/kvCard.asp?Id=1051. [Date accessed

2004].

Gives brief details on galax cultivation. Leaves have a bronze 

winter. In spring and summer, plants produce a raceme of sm

flowers. Propagation is done by seeds or by division of rhizom

or fall. Plants grow best in a shaded, cool area with moist soil

Keywords: Cultivation, flowers, habitat, propagation.

Smithsonian Institute Libraries. 2001. Kelsey, Harlan P. In

seed and nursery industry: biographies. Washington, DC: S

Institute Libraries. http://www.sil.si.edu/SILPublications/s

kelseyharlan-p.html. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Provides a brief biography of Harlan Kelsey from North Caro

supposedly the first person to cultivate galax in the 1870s.

Keywords: Cultivation, history.

Sorrie, B.; Somers, P. 1999. The vascular plants of Massachu

checklist. Westborough, MA: Massachusetts Division of F

Wildlife, Natural Heritage Program & Endangered Species 

187 p.

[No abstract].

Keyword: Distribution.

U.S. Department of Agriculture. 2002. Decorative greens an

In: Philadelphia Wholesale Ornamental Crops Report. Fre

Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Servic

Vegetable Programs, Market News Branch. 25(24): 4.

Reports wholesale prices of cut flowers and florist greens in t

Philadelphia area. The price for a bunch of 25 galax stems is 

to $1.25.
28

ppp

www.fs.fed.us/cgi-bin/Directives/get_dirs/fsh?2409.18. [D

January 2, 2004].

Outlines regulations from the U.S. Forest Service manual for 

the sale complies with State and Federal plant protection law

forest officers to sell galax leaves. Other plants and sale regu

included in this manual.

Keywords: Harvest, regulations.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conser

Service. 2001. The PLANTS database. Version 3.1. Baton 

Plant Data Center. http://plants.usda.gov. [Date accessed: J

2004].

Provides photographs and information on galax ecology, distr

range, and conservation. Galax is a perennial dicot in the Dia

family. The native range includes Alabama, Georgia, Kentuck

Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, South Caro

Virginia, and West Virginia. Links to additional maps include 

county distribution for these States.

Keywords: Conservation, Diapensiaceae family, distribution, 

Welby, E.M.; McGregor, B. 1997a. Agricultural export trans

handbook: compatibility groups. In: Agricultural export tra

handbook. Agric. Handb. 700. [Place of publication unkno

Agricultural Marketing Service, Transportation and Marke

www.ams.usda.gov/tmd/export/index.htm. [Date accessed

2004].

Lists groups of plants than can be shipped in similar conditio

should be shipped at 0 o

 to 2 oC (32 o to 36 oF) with 90 to 95 p

humidity. Other florist greens that require these conditions in

(various species), ferns (various species), ground pine (Lycop

holly (Ilex spp.), juniper (Juniperus spp.), mistletoe (various 

rhododendron (Rhododendron spp.), and mountain laurel (Ka

Keywords: Floral uses, shipping.
29

gppg

[Place of publication unknown]: Agricultural Marketing Se

Transportation and Marketing. http://www.ams.usda.gov/tm

index.htm. [Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Provides recommendations for shipment of various agricultur

Galax should be kept at 0 oC (32 oF) in moisture-retentive cas

life is unspecified.

Keywords: Floral uses, shipping.

Commercial Vendors

Note: The following list of vendors is included to provide acc

information about availability and prices. The authors do not 

recommend these vendors over any others not listed.

Eastern Plant Specialties. [n.d.]. Galax. Georgetown, ME. h

easternplant.com/epsdetail.asp?ID=96. [Date accessed: Jan

Vendor of galax plants for use in the landscape industry. Inclu

prices for half-gallon and gallon pots.

Keywords: Landscape products, vendors.

Flowerbuyer. [n.d.]. Galax. http://www.flowerbuyer.com/doc

ProductDesc.asp?item=148. [Date accessed: January 2, 20

Summarizes floral care specifications. Leaves are approxima

diameter. Stems should be recut under water and placed into 

solution (20 drops bleach per quart of water). Leaves damage 

shipping but have a vase life of 2 weeks. This vendor also sel

bunches of 50 leaves.

Keywords: Floral products, handling, shipping, vendors.

Fraser’s Thimble Farms. [n.d.]. Galax. Salt Spring Island, C

www.thimblefarms.com/index.html. [Date accessed: Janua

Vendor of galax plants for use in the landscape industry.

Keywords: Landscape products, vendors.
30

Keywords: Landscape products, vendors.

Rock Island Wildflowers. [n.d.]. Galax. Rock Island, TN. htt

www.rockislandwildflowers.com/main.asp. [Date accessed

2004].

Vendor of galax plants for use in the landscape industry.

Keywords: Landscape products, vendors.

Ronald Jones Ferneries. [n.d.]. Galax. Pierson, FL. http://

www.volusia.com/rjf/info.htm. [Date accessed: January 2, 

Vendor of galax leaves for use in the floral industry.

Keywords: Floral products, vendors.

Shooting Star Nursery. [n.d.]. Galax. http://www.shootingst

[Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Vendor of galax plants for use in the landscape industry.

Keywords: Landscape products, vendors.

Sluder Floral Company. [n.d.]. Galax. http://www.sluderflo

[Date accessed: January 2, 2004].

Vendor of galax leaves for use in the floral industry.

Keywords: Floral products, vendors.

United Galax. [n.d.]. Galax. http://www.treefern.com/united

accessed: January 2, 2004].

Vendor of galax leaves for use in the floral industry.

Keywords: Floral products, vendors.
31

Anon. 19

Anon. 19

Appalachian State Museum 20

Bir, D. 14

Bradley, P. 20

Britton, N.L. 25

Burton, T. 14

Burton, T.L. 14

Danley, D. 15, 16

Deyton, C. 14, 20

Eastern Plant Specialties 29

Ellison, Q. 21

Encyclopedia Britannica 25

Evans, E. 25

Fern, K. 25

Flowerbuyer 29

Fraser’s Thimble Farms 29

Galax-Carroll-Grayson Chamber of

Commerce 21

Gardens of the Blue Ridge 30

Garrison, J. 21, 22

Gregory, J.L. 15

Guerrant, E. 22

Hamel, P. 23

Horticopia, Inc. 26

Husband, B.C. 14

Kauffman, G. 15

Kauffman, G.L. 16

Neufeld, H.S. 17

Nickens, T.E. 23

Noland, D. 26

Ostendorff, J. 23

Reed, D. 26

Robbins, C. 17

Rock Island Wildflowers 

Ronald Jones Ferneries 3

Seyden, T. 20

Shooting Star Nursery 30

Slaby, P. 27

Sluder Floral Company 3

Smithsonian Institute Libr

Sobieraj, J.H. 17

Soltis, D.E. 18

Sorrie, B. 27

Stallard, G.J. 24

Stroupe, N. 24

U.S. Department of Agric

U.S. Department of Agric

Service 28

U.S. Department of Agricu

Resource Conservation 

Ulrey, C. 18

United Galax 30

Welby, E.M. 28, 29
32

Blue Ridge Parkway 7, 8, 11, 13, 18, 21, 22,

23

botanical description 1, 25, 27

chemical constituents 4, 14, 18

cold hardiness. See hardiness range.

common names 1

conservation 1, 6, 8, 12, 16, 17, 18, 20, 25,

26, 28

cultivation 3, 14, 19, 25, 26, 27

cytotypes 3, 4, 14, 15, 16, 18

dealers 5, 6, 7, 24

Diapensiaceae family 1, 20, 24, 25, 28

distribution 2, 3, 9, 15, 16, 26, 27, 28

drought tolerance 18

ecology 1, 9, 24, 28

ethnobotany 23

flavonoids 18

floral industry 1, 4, 9, 20, 21, 24, 25, 28, 30

floral uses 14, 20, 24, 26, 28, 29

flowers 1, 17, 19, 25, 27, 29

Galax, Virginia 5, 19, 21

global heritage status rank 2, 15, 26

Grandfather Mountain 7, 19, 20

Great Smoky Mountains National Park 23

habitat 2, 16, 19, 24, 25, 26, 27

handling 26, 29

hardiness range 2, 26

harvest 1, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 15, 16, 17,

18, 20, 21, 23, 24, 28

methods 3, 8, 15, 16, 18, 23

permits. See permits.

restriction 7, 12, 13, 15, 16, 20, 21, 24

harvesters 1, 6, 7, 8, 9, 23, 24

history 5, 7, 11, 19, 21, 23, 27

landscape uses 1, 5, 19, 26

leaf color

green 1, 5, 17, 19, 20, 26

red 1, 5, 17, 19, 25

market 1, 6, 9, 13, 23, 27, 28

prices 6, 23, 27, 28, 29

marking 8, 23, 24

media coverage 21, 24

medicinal uses 5, 23, 26

microtaggant 8, 23

National Forests of North 

12, 16

National heritage status ra

National Park Service 1, 

18, 21, 22

nomenclature 1, 21

odor. See plant odor.

packaging 9, 14, 21

permits 7, 8, 9, 16, 17, 21

Pisgah National Forest 7, 

plant odor 4, 10, 13, 14, 2

poaching 1, 7, 8, 11, 12, 

23, 24

polyploidy 4, 10, 14, 15, 

prices. See market: prices

propagation 3, 14, 19, 25

rhizome 3, 14

seed 2, 3, 12, 14, 19, 25

tissue culture 14

range 2, 4, 9, 15, 16, 19, 

red leaves. See anthocyan

red.

regulations 20, 21, 28

research 1, 3, 4, 10, 13, 1

propagation 3, 14

scientific 26

sustainability 1, 7, 16, 

restricted harvest season. 

restriction.

rhizomes 1, 2, 8, 9, 14, 1

scientific names 1

seeds 14, 19, 25, 27

shipping 28, 29

smell. See plant odor.

soil requirements 2, 19

storage 29

sun requirements 2, 17, 1

sustainability 1, 7, 12, 16

tagging. See marking.

traditional uses 5, 23

vendors 29, 30

floral products 29, 30

landscape products 29, 

water requirements 2, 18

wholesalers 6, 20, 24
33

Disclaimers

This annotated bibliography represents a comprehensive, but 

exhaustive, review of the literature on galax. The references 

identified through a detailed search of academic library-base

regional literature, government documents, Internet database

commercial Internet sites. Bibliographic references are organ

sections—Research Literature, Popular Press, Other Informa

to indicate their origins. Research Literature includes referen

reviewed articles published in scientific journals, while the r

Popular Press are not scientifically reviewed, but are include

popular knowledge and perceptions. Other Information Sour

technical bulletins, horticultural lists, historical documents, a

This document is available from the nontimber forest produc

the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern 

Station at http://www.sfp.forprod.vt.edu/.

Web sites listed in the bibliography were active at the time th

was prepared, but Web addresses may change or disappear ov

date accessed indicates the last time the Web sites were chec

The use of trade or firm names in this publication is for read

and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Department of A

any product or service.
34

Predny, Mary L.; Chamberlain, James L. 2005. Galax (Galax u

an annotated bibliography. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-87. Asheville

Department of Agriculture Forest Service, Southern Research 

Galax (Galax urceolata) is an evergreen groundcover harvested 

floral industry. The plant’s durable, shiny green leaves turn red in 

are popular background foliage in floral arrangements. People li

mountains of North Carolina and other rural Appalachian locatio

harvested (pulled) galax to supplement their incomes since befo

century; however, over the last decade, Hispanic laborers have la

placed local harvesters. Today, more than 90 percent of the harve

Hispanic origin. An experienced harvester can pull approximatel

a day; the value of this amount can range from $20 to $120. Pric

depending on the season, the size and color of the leaves, and m

Industry concern for the availability or sustainability of galax ha

USDA Forest Service to restrict the harvest season. Since 2001, 

is allowed from May 1 through June 15 when new leaves are em

USDA Forest Service and the National Park Service are both con

research to determine sustainable harvest levels.

Keywords: Conservation, floral industry, galax, nontimber fores

poaching.
35
36
Galax (Galax urceolata)

is an important product in the

international floral industry.

Cover photograph by Thomas G. Barnes

THE AUTHORS:

Mary L. Predny, Research Associate, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State 

University, Wood Science and Forest Products Department, Blacksburg, VA 24061.

James L. Chamberlain, Research Scientist, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 

Forest Service, Southern Research Station, Blacksburg, VA 24060.
United States

Department

of Agriculture

Forest Service

Southern

Research

Station

General

Technical

Report

SRS–87

United States

Department

of the Interior

National 

Park Service