The Flora of Boston and Its Vicinity
The article by Asa Gray discusses the historical progression of vegetation in Massachusetts, particularly around Boston, from the pre-glacial period to European colonization. It highlights significant climatic changes that transformed the region’s flora, replacing warm-temperate species with northern counterparts as the ice-sheet retreated. The indigenous vegetation was largely forested, minimally altered by Native American agriculture. In contrast, European settlers introduced numerous plant species, some beneficial and others invasive, significantly modifying the landscape. Despite this change, many native plants have persisted, illustrating the complexity of Boston’s flora and the impact of human activities over time.