The preserve protects the world's largest population of piratebush (Buckleya distichophylla), a globally rare parasitic shrub.

The mountain derives its name from the fact that the soils on its slopes are poor, due to their base of metamorphosed sandstone bedrock.

[3] Poor Mountain Natural Area Preserve is owned and maintained by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.

The preserve is open to the public, with improvements including a small parking area and four miles (6.4 km) of trails.

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