Gentianopsis thermalis/detonsa, August 1, 2023
Roadside, 10,600’, August 7, 2023
Common & scientific name
Rocky Mountain fringed gentian, Gentianopsis detonsa/thermalis
Family
Gentian, Gentianaceae
Location
Roadside, 11,400’
Fun, weird, helpful, or little known fact
This delightful, widespread gentian (think roadside ditches, among other wet places) has four spiraling, delicately-fringed, deep-blue or deep-purple petals (compare the photos at left). “Thermalis” refers to the thermal pools of Yellowstone, where this gentian is particularly abundant and has been designated the park’s official flower.
Linkins Lake, 12,000’, August 7, 2023
Lost Man Reservoir, 10,600’, August 10, 2023