🌳Tree of the Month for July 2026

Howdy, park-goers! It's time for our July 2026 Tree of the Month. This month we're highlighting one of Missouri's mightiest native trees: the Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata).

Shagbark hickory gets its common name from the long, shaggy strips of bark that peel away from the trunk as the tree matures, creating one of the most distinctive silhouettes in the forest.

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Jenelle Ellis
July 2026 Ranger Report: Summer Heat Safety

Each month, hear directly from Tower Grove Park Rangers as they share practical tips to keep the park safe, healthy, and welcoming for everyone.

Each installment highlights a seasonal tip, from protecting garden beds and wildlife to navigating the Park safely and respectfully year-round.

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Jenelle Ellis
What’s in Bloom: Scavenger Hunt for July 2026

Have you seen me in the Park?

Hi, I’m Bottlebrush Buckeye (Aesculus parviflora)!

I’m a deciduous shrub that thrives in shady spots and puts on one of the Park’s best summer flower displays. My tall, bottlebrush-like clusters of white flowers are accented with red anthers and soft pink filaments, giving me my distinctive look. I love growing in part to full shade with evenly moist, well-drained soil.

Can you spot me in Tower Grove Park?

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Jenelle Ellis
What’s in Bloom: Scavenger Hunt for June 2026

Have you seen me in the Park?

Hi, I’m Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)! 🦋🌼

With my bright clusters of orange flowers, I put on quite a show throughout the summer. You’ll often find me growing in sunny prairies, meadows, and open landscapes where I can thrive in well-drained soils. My vibrant blooms don't just catch the eye—they're a favorite nectar source for many pollinators. Can you spot me in Tower Grove Park?

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Jenelle Ellis
🌳Tree of the Month for June 2026

Howdy, park-goers! It is time for the June 2026 Tree of the Month. This month we are highlighting Tilia cordata, which is commonly called littleleaf linden

This species is native to Europe, western Siberia, and Iran, with records documenting its cultivation dating back as early as 760 AD. Tilia cordata, commonly known as Littleleaf Linden, is a medium-sized broadleaf deciduous tree in the Malvaceae family. At maturity, it typically reaches 50–70 feet in height with a canopy spread of 35–50 feet. 

Internationally, Tilia cordata is widely regarded as one of the finest linden species due to its attractive form, adaptability, and ornamental value. Although it is not native to North America, it has been extensively planted throughout the United States as a shade and landscape tree, where it is valued for its dense canopy, fragrant flowers, and tolerance of urban conditions.

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Jenelle Ellis