Ingram Woods natural area

Ingram Woods is a small, 3.7-acre park in the Westerleigh neighborhood of Staten Island. Upland deciduous forests support groves of red oak (Quercus rubra), American beech (Fagus grandifolia), and sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), which is the most common tree in New York City. The midstory is dominated by tangles of greenbriar (Smilax rotundifolia) and burning bush (Euonymus alatus), an introduced species that is commonly planted in gardens because of its attractive red foliage in the fall. The understory is dotted with white wood aster (Eurybia divaricata), false solomon's seal (Maianthemum racemosum), and maple leaf viburnum (Viburnum acerifolium). This small park, nestled within a residential development, offers locals a refreshing dose of nature, where they can pause to listen to the songbirds, take a leisurely stroll with their dog, or catch some fresh air.