The Hoverter and Sholl Box Huckleberry

The smallest declared Natural Area in Pennsylvania is home to one of the oldest plants in the eastern United States. Administered as part of Tuscarora State Forest, the 10-acre Hoverter and Sholl Box Huckleberry Natural Area houses a colony of box huckleberry that’s estimated to be between 800 and 13,000 years old.

Scientists approximate the age of a box huckleberry colony by dividing the total length of the plant colony with its average growth rate of 6 inches per year—and before Route 322 was widened in the 1960s the box huckleberry spread over more than a mile of forest understory. However, road construction severely damaged this low-growing shrub, making its actual age difficult to discern. One thing is for sure: It’s ancient. It’s also a rare species that is one of only a few large populations in existence.

The Hoverter and Sholl Box Huckleberry remained largely unknown until botanist Frederick V. Coville, who served as the first director of the U.S. National Arboretum, came upon it. Concluding that the plant was self-sterile and spread through cloning (the large patch of box huckleberry in Pennsylvania is one continuous plant, connected by its root system), he raised concern about its rarity and threatened extinction. This inspired the creation of the Hoverter and Sholl Box Huckleberry Natural Area, which started in 1929 with 4 acres. 

Box huckleberries are related to blueberries and other huckleberries and while not much to look at, the longevity of this particular plant is impressive. See it for yourself along the easy, 0.4-mile loop trail that winds through the Natural Area’s woodlands. 

Just 5 miles north is Little Buffalo State Park, a 923-acre expanse that’s home to an 82-foot-long covered bridge, an early 19th century tavern which operates as a museum, and opportunities for boating, hiking, and swimming. An onsite campground features three rustic cottages and 46 campsites, including some that are full-service.