Lewisia pygmaea, June 17, 2022
L. pygmaea, early emerging, Blue Lake, 12,200’, June 17, 2022
Common & scientific name
Pygmy bitterroot, Lewisia pygmaea
Family
Purslane, Portulaceae
Location
Blue Lake Trail, 11,700’
Fun, weird, helpful, or little known fact
The much tinier cousin of the state flower of Montana, the Bitterroot, this light pink to lavender to magenta (when it first comes out) beauty sits tight on the tundra among its long, fleshy leaves, protecting itself from the cold temps and desiccating winds. Add it to your list of miniature alpine wonders!
Rare white version of L. pygmaea, Lower Lost Man, 10,900’, July 4, 2022