McConnell Springs is home to a wide variety of plant species that are native to the Bluegrass and the surrounding region. As an urban forest, McConnell Springs has seen significant impact from past land use by people. The forest that is growing in the park now is an early succession forest that has only been growing since agricultural operations ended on the site in the 20th century.
Park visitors can expect to find dozens of species of trees and shrubs growing in the park which provide food and shelter for the various animals that live in the forest. These trees provide great views throughout the year from the blossoms of the Eastern Redbuds in the spring to the bright red berries on the Spicebush in the summer and fall, the forest always provides interesting sights.
The meadow and gardens at the park are home to various species of grasses and wildflowers that are important food sources for pollinators like the Monarch Butterfly. Be sure to check the Milkweed in the Rain Garden in front of the Education Center to see if you can find Monarch Caterpillars as they eat and grow.
One site that all park visitors should try to see during a visit to McConnell Springs is the Bur Oak. This tree has been standing for an estimated 300 years. The majestic oak has an interesting shape because it is an open grown tree that grew without other trees around it when it was young. Given its age, this tree has seen all of the changes at McConnell Springs from a pioneer settlement, to agricultural operations, and now today as one of Lexington’s most loved city parks.