By Génesis Abreu, Laura Briscoe

Mar 18 2025

For at least 5,000 years, people have called The Bronx home, with the river serving as a central feature of the landscape. Aakwaaxunung (pronounced Ah-ka-wock-uh-nung) is the name Native Americans (the Lenape, Siwanoy and Weckquaesgeek people) gave the river we now know as the Bronx River. The proper translation of the river's Lenape name remains elusive, but most suggestions are about sanctuary: "a place protected from winds," "a place of high bluffs," "a place on the other side," or "a peaceful place." Indigenous peoples relied on Aakwaaxunung as a source of food and drinking water, as well as a means of transportation and a defining element of their cultural identity.

Dive into this vibrant collection of plant species that can be found along Aakwaaxunung, an ecologically resilient river system that connects and unites the diverse communities of The Bronx and Westchester. This collection highlights both current and historical flora, inviting you to explore the rich tapestry of life that supports various aquatic and riparian ecosystems along the watershed. 

Uplifting the efforts of various groups dedicated to the river's health, this collection celebrates the passionate individuals and organizations working diligently throughout the watershed to nurture its ecosystems and promote resilience. Let the stories of these plants inspire a deeper connection to Aakwaaxunung and the communities it nourishes, reminding us of the importance of collaboration and stewardship in maintaining the health and vitality of this essential natural resource.

For more information see:
Bronx River Alliance and other Partners
NYBG Center for Conservation and Restoration Ecology