Initially this guide displays common flowers of all colors that are blooming right now in our area. Use the selectors to view rare species, to view flowers blooming any time, to restrict the output to a certain color, or to search by name.
The Jemez Mountain Herbarium located at PEEC has a specimen collection of over 1,000 plant species that are found in the Jemez Mountain region. This guide was developed as a subset of this collection to help in the identification of the most prevalent flowering plants in Los Alamos County. Most of the plants shown here are native to the area, though a few were introduced to the region.
Monocot and both simple and composite flowering dicots are covered in this guide. This information is included in each description and potentially makes it easier to identify the different plants.
- monocot – seed has 1 embryonic leaf; flower parts com in multiples of 3; leaves have parallel veins
- dicot – seed has 1 embryonic leaves; flower parts com in multiples of 4 or 5; leaves have scattered veins
- simple flower – single, symmetric flowers; usually 3 to 6 petals that emerge from the flower center
- composite flower – multiple, tiny flowers arranged on a single base, typically rays around a disc; each tiny flower has its own seed
Most of the plants represented here are classified as forb/herb which are plants without significant woody growth. However, some flowering shrubs and trees have been included. Many of the later can also be found in the PEEC Tree Guide. This guide does not include any noxious weeds from the area. These are covered in the PEEC Invasive Plant Guide.
You can get additional information on local blooms by joining PEEC Wild Plants. More detailed descriptions can be found in Plants of the Jemez Mountains Volumes 2 and 3, which are available in the PEEC gift shop.
Flower References
American Southwest Plants
Annotated Checklist and Database for Vascular Plants of the Jemez Mountains
Colorado Rocky Mountain Wildflowers
Flora of North America
Foxx, T., Martin, C., and Hoard, D., 2018 Plants of the Jemez Mountains Volume 2: Wildflowers: Showy Monocots and Common Dicots.
Foxx, T., Martin, C., and Hoard, D., 2019 Plants of the Jemez Mountains Volume 3: Composites.
eNature
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
National Garden Association
Native Plants Society of New Mexico
New Mexico Flora
Rocky Mountain Flora
Southwest Desert Flora
Wildflowers of the United States
US Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Services
US Forest Service
Subject Area Experts (all guides)
Steve Cary (butterflies)
Beth Cortright (insects)
Terry Foxx (invasive plants)
Leslie Hansen (mammals)
Richard Hansen (fish, mammals)
Dorothy Hoard (butterflies, trees)
Chick Keller (flowers, herbarium)
Shari Kelley (geology)
Kirt Kempter (geology)
Garth Tietjen (reptiles)
David Yeamans (birds)
Web Development and Content Management
Pat Bacha
Jennifer Macke
Graham Mark
Akkana Peck
Contact
Please contact us for local nature questions and sightings. We welcome comments, corrections, and additions to our guides.
For more information about local nature, please visit our Nature Blog or subscribe to PEEC This Week.
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Showing 87 of 179 flowers.
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel |  Red Elderberry, Red Elder, Red-berried ElderSARA2 (Sambucus racemosa)Family: Adoxaceae (Moschatel) Size: up to 240 in (610 cm) Growth: shrub, tree; perennial Blooms: May 09 - Jul 22 Flower: simple; white; dome-shaped clusters of many tiny flowers; fragrant Leaf: dicot; opposite, pinnate-compound leaves with 5 to 7 leaflets Fruit: clusters of bright to dark red berries; seeds distributed by birds and mammals Status: native; locally common Habitat: mixed conifer --- woodland, wet meadow, prairie, field Typical location: Pajarito Canyon second crossing This plant is typically seen as a low-growing, shredding shrub. It sprouts from the root crown and/or rhizomes. The berries attract and are readily consumed by wildlife. In contrast, due to their sour taste, they and not usually eaten raw by humans but may used in the preparation of wine, jelly, and pies. Info Photos Distribution Tree Guide |
 Photo: Kathleen Sayce  Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Patrick Alexander |  Nodding OnionALCE2 (Allium cernuum)Family: Amaryllidaceae (Amaryllis) Size: 12 - 18 in (30 - 46 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 27 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; pink or occasionally white; tiny bell-shaped blossoms in a loose nodding cluster Leaf: monocot; fragrant; long, narrow, and upright Fruit: spherical crested fruits that open to reveal brown seeds Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- dry woods, rock outcroppings, prairies Typical location: Valle Canyon The plant has slender conical bulbs which taper directly into several grass-like leaves. Each bulb bears a single flower stem which terminates in a number of short flower stalks. Leaves and bulbs were once eaten but currently considered to be of little culinary value. Attracts hairstreak butterflies. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Terry Foxx |  Alpine False Springparsley, Mountain ParsleyPSMO (Pseudocymopterus montanus, Cymopterus lemmonii)Family: Apiaceae (Carrots) Size: 12 - 20 in (30 - 51 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Apr 24 - Aug 15 Flower: simple; yellow; fan arrangement, round and flat topped on the tip of a long flowering stalk Leaf: dicot; very variable in leaf shape and size Fruit: oblong capsules with well-developed lateral wings and 2 seeds Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- foothills, montane, subalpine, woodlands, meadows Typical location: Valle Canyon The size and morphology of this plant depends on the elevation at which it is growing. It was originally classified in the genus Cymopterus or “waved wing” for which it is a close look alike. It is now classified as Pseudocymopterus or “False Cymopterus”. The roots and leaves of this plant have used as a food source by some Native Americans. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Stan Shebs  Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel |  Antelope Horn Milkweed, Spider Milkweed, Green-flowered MilkweedASAS (Asclepias asperula)Family: Apocynoideae (Dogbanes) Size: 12 - 24 in (30 - 61 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: May 27 - Jul 19 Flower: simple; green and white; spherical flower clusters Leaf: dicot; lanceolate; open, airy network in alternate arrangement Fruit: growing seed follicles resemble antelope horns Status: native; uncommon Habitat: pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- semi-desert, foothills, woodlands, openings, washes Plant can have either an upright or a sprawling habit. Stems are covered with minute hairs. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin | Golden Draba, Golden WhitlowgrassDRAU (Draba aurea)Family: Arabideae (Mustards) Size: up to 8 in (20 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 11 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; yellow; individual small flowers with 4 oblong petals with 4 sepals; compact flowerhead with up to 50 flowers Leaf: dicot; smooth-edged or toothed; very hairy; grow as a rosette at the base and along the stems Fruit: purplish green, hairy pods that are angled upwards Status: native; uncommon Habitat: mixed conifer --- montane, alpine, subalpine, meadows, woodlands Typical location: Canada Bonita Trail The Golden Draba was named by Martin Vahl in 1806 from a specimen collected in Greenland. The native range of this plant covers Arizona and New Mexico north through all of Canada and includes Alaska and Greenland. Plants in the genus Draba are commonly known as whitlow-grasses. However, they are not related to true grasses. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin |  Common Yarrow, Western Yarrow, MilfoilACMI2 (Achillea millefolium)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 20 in (51 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 08 - Sep 10 Flower: composite; white with yellow center; flat-topped or dome-shaped flowerhead clusters; long lasting Leaf: dicot; long leaflets in an alternate arrangement; further leaflet divisions give fern-like appearance; strong spicy aroma Fruit: capsules with thick margins and no hairs Status: naturalized plant; common Habitat: ponderosa --- semi-desert, foothills, montane, subalpine, meadows, woodlands, shrublands The Common Yarrow was introduced into North America from Europe and Asia during colonial times. It has since been naturalized throughout the US. It is a common cultivar and can be seen in gardens in a range of colors including reds and yellows. The genus Achillea was named for Achilles who treated soldiers’s wound during the Trojan War. In fact, Common Yarrow has a variety of medicinal uses including the treatment of wounds, burns, colds, fevers, and headaches. It has even been made into a beer. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Kathy Gillespie   Photo: Ellen Hildebrand | Lyreleaf Greeneyes, Chocolate Flower, Chocolate DaisyBELY (Berlandiera lyrata, Berlandiera incisa)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 12 - 24 in (30 - 61 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: May 03 - Sep 30 Flower: composite; yellow rays with brown centers and green cup-like bracts; rays have red veins on reverse side Leaf: dicot; gray-green; pinnate, deeply-lobed leaves with lyre-shaped curves; velvety Fruit: cup-like seedheads Status: native; uncommon Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- dry, well-drained sites, sandy or rocky soils, roadsides, grasslands with mesquite, oak, and juniper Typical location: Red Dot Trail near bottom The common name of lyreleaf greeneyes comes from the shape of the leaf and the green eye-like disc left after the ray florets drop off. The "chocolate" scent of the flower is responsible for its other common names. In addition, the stamens are edible and have a chocolate flavor. The plant seems to disappear when it freezes but the roots are alive and will remain dormant until spring. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Becky Shankland  Photo: Alex Abair  Photo: Alex Abair | False BonesetBREU (Brickellia eupatorioides, Kuhnia chlorolepis)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 80 in (203 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 15 - Sep 30 Flower: composite; white to yellow; clusters of flowerheads at branch tips; ray florets absent; 3 - 35 disc florets per head; prominent styles Leaf: dicot; long, linear to lanceolate blades with prominent center vein; alternate arrangement; closely spaced Fruit: dark brown, ribbed achenes with minute hairs Status: native; uncommon Habitat: disturbed soil --- Road edges and trails. Typical location: White Rock False Boneset is actually more showy after the flowers go to seed in little white puffs. Its foliage is bitter and has little nutritional value, so mammalian herbivores, including livestock, only browse on it when there is little else available. Various types of bees and butterflies visit flowerheads for nectar and/or pollen. The caterpillars of some moths feed on flowerheads and developing seeds. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Susan Punjabi  Photo: Chick Keller | Trailing Fleabane, Whiplash DaisyERFL (Erigeron flagellaris)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 8 in (20 cm) Growth: forb/herb; biennial Blooms: May 30 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; white and yellow with blush of pink; as many as 125 white ray florets; numerous yellow disc florets Leaf: dicot; light green; narrow; numerous arranged in clusters Fruit: tufted single seeds Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- foothills, montane, subalpine, meadows Typical location: Water Canyon Plant sends out runners along the surface of the ground to colonize large areas., forming extensive mats of clones. Tied bunches of plants used for brooms. Leaves used as a medicine and fumigant. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Nat Warning |  Aspen Fleabane, Showy FleabaneERSP4 (Erigeron speciosus)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 40 in (102 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jul 12 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; ray florets vary from lavender to white with yellow disc florets; ray florets are long and narrow; there may be up to 150 per flowerhead Leaf: dicot; lnceolate leaves with a prominent vein Fruit: 2-veined capsule Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- subalpine, montane, open areas There are six common (and a few more uncommon) Erigeron in the area. This species is one of the most common. It has certainly earned one of its common names (Showy Fleabane) with its abundant display of flowers. The stems are reddish-green and usually hairless. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Dan Beckman | Running Fleabane, Running Daisy, Tracy's FleabaneERCO28 (Erigeron tracyi, Erigeron colomexicanus )Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 6 - 12 in (15 - 30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; biennial Blooms: Feb 01 - Dec 01 Flower: composite; white with yellow center, may have purple color on edges; a single flowerhead per stem made up of 100 ray florets and over 200 disc florets Leaf: dicot; basal leaves close together and wider toward the tip; stem leaves few and narrow; hairy Fruit: archenes topped with bristles Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- foothills, open areas, and woods Typical location: Red Dot Trail Spreads via runners during summer and fall. Similar in overall appearance to Spreading Fleabane but has runner similar to Whiplash Daisy. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Akkana Peck  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel |  Indian Blanket, Firewheel, Indian Blanketflower, SundanceGAPU (Gaillardia pulchella)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 18 - 24 in (46 - 61 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; annual, biennial, perennial Blooms: May 05 - Oct 15 Flower: composite; ray florets red to orange at base with yellow tips; sometimes all yellow or orange; disc florets are reddish-brown Leaf: dicot; alternate arrangement; long, wide and toothed Fruit: seedhead with pyramid-shaped cypselae and multiple hairs and scales Status: native; common Habitat: disturbed soil, pinyon-juniper --- roadsides, meadows, dry plains, open areas Typical location: White Rock This is a hardy plant, tolerating heat and dryness. Many varieties are popular for cultivation providing a showy splash of color to the garden. The plant is favored by honeybees and produces a dark reddish buttery tasting honey. It also attracts butterflies. The roots can be used to make a tea. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Becky Shankland  Photo: Craig Martin | Curlycup Gumweed, Curly-cup Gumweed, Rosinweed, TarweedGRSQ (Grindelia squarrosa)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 3 - 36 in (8 - 91 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, biennial, perennial Blooms: Jun 01 - Oct 10 Flower: composite; yellow; daisy-like, medium sized multiple heads with many disc florets but with or without ray florets; “curlycup” comes from distinctive recurved bracts that enclose the flowerheads Leaf: dicot; green to gray-green linear leaves; margins smooth or toothed Fruit: short whitish to brown or gray capsules Status: native; uncommon Habitat: disturbed soil --- Road edges, especially in White Rock. Typical location: White Rock The plant, including the flower heads, produces a sticky, gummy resin; thus the origin of many of its common names. Curlycup Gumweed concentrates selenium giving it a very bitter taste and making it toxic to mammals. This plant is being studies as a potential source of biofuel to to its high content of several terpene compounds that can be converted to a fuel analogues to kerosene. It is an attractive plant for this use since it would not compete for areas used for traditional food crops. Info Photos Distribution Weed Guide |
 Photo: JA Bain  Photo: Craig Martin | Fivenerve Helianthella, Nodding Dwarf Sunflower, Nodding Helianthella, Wood SunflowerHEQU2 (Helianthella quinquenervis)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 60 in (152 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jul 14 - Aug 18 Flower: composite; yellow; 1 flowerhead per stem, hanging slightly; 8-21 bright yellow rays surrounding numerous darker yellow disc florets Leaf: dicot; pointed, narrow but long; lance-shaped; 3 to 5 prominent veins; numerous basal leaves, few stem leaves Fruit: small dark brown capsules with short hairs Status: native; uncommon Habitat: montane --- subalpine, woodlands, streamsides Typical location: Camp May, Canada Bonita The genus name of Helianthella is a diminutive form of the closely related sunflower genus Helianthus . Helianthella quinquenervis has been known as the “Little Sunflower” despite the fact that it quite tall and its flowers can be up to 4 in (10 cm) across. The plant can be most often seen scattered about the landscape. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: M Feaver |  Hairy False Goldenaster, False Hairy Golden-Aster; Hairy False Golden AsterHEVI4 (Heterotheca villosa)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 12 - 36 in (30 - 91 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 27 - Oct 31 Flower: composite; yellow with orange center; branched cluster of up to 15 flowers; 10 to 20 ray florets; 20 to 50 disc florets; corollas have a 5-lobed lip Leaf: dicot; greyish-green; small, narrow, and lance-shaped; grow densely; often have wavy edge; alternate arrangement Fruit: head of dry seeds with tufts of light brown hairs Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- semi-desert, foothills, montane, openings, disturbed areas Typical location: Quemazon Trail Hairy False Goldenaster blooms throughout the summer until snowfall with the flowers giving a bushy appearance. Its species name of villosa means “covered with soft hairs” flowing from the fact that the stems are covered with rough, grayish hairs. The plant has a spicy-sharp sage aroma. There are two different shaped seeds which is unusual for sunflowers. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin | Owl's Claws, Owlsclaws, Sneezeweed, Orange Sneezeweed,HYHO (Hymenoxys hoopesii)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 12 - 18 in (30 - 46 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 26 - Sep 10 Flower: composite; yellow to orange; 14 to 26 long ray florets surrounding a slightly raised disc; clusters with several flowerheads Leaf: dicot; lower leaves oblong; upper leaves lance-shaped; prominent central white vein Fruit: narrow oblong to pyramidal-shaped capsule with sharp scales Status: native; locally common Habitat: montane, mountain meadow --- montane, subalpine, alpine, meadows Typical location: Canada Bonita Found at higher elevations. The stems of this plant are white and woody below the flowers. Despite its name, the plant does not make you sneeze, but rather refers to an allergic irritation caused by the pollen. A preparation made from the plant’s roots can be used to treat rheumatic pains and stomach disorders. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel | Colorado Rubberweed, Richard's Bitterweed, Pingue RubberweedHYRIF (Hymenoxys richardsonii)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 14 in (36 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 26 - Sep 17 Flower: composite; yellow with orange; petals with three-toothed tips that droop when the plant ages; disc florets form a dome Leaf: dicot; 3 linear lobes; concentrated near base with a scattering of small resin glands Fruit: achene topped with white translucent scales Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- dry, open often rocky hillsides and plains Typical location: Anniversary Trail Colorado Rubberweed has long stems and is woolly at the base of the lowest leaves. The roots have a type of latex that can be used as a dressing on sores and rashes. The leaves and stems are poisonous, potentially even being deadly to livestock. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin | Fendler's Ragwort, Fendler's Groundsel, Notchleaf SenecioPAFE4 (Packera fendleri, Senecio fendleri)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 4 - 16 in (10 - 41 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: May 30 - Aug 18 Flower: composite; yellow ray and disc florets; 6 to 8 ray florets Leaf: dicot; deeply notched almost to mid-rib; hairy; grow mostly at the base Fruit: tufted single seeds Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- slopes, dry rocky or gravelly soils, along streams, open forests, disturbed sites Typical location: Valle Canyon The plant is abundant at a variety of elevations and habitats, so much so that it almost seems like a weed in some areas. It’s hairy stems were used by the Navajo for a variety of medicinal uses. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Becky Shankland  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Ellen Hildebrandt | Woolly Paperflower, Paperflower, Paper DaisyPSTA (Psilostrophe tagetina)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 4 - 12 in (10 - 30 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; biennial, perennial Blooms: Jun 25 - Oct 15 Flower: composite; yellow; compact clusters of flowerheads on short stems; 3 or 4 yellow ray florets, notched at the tip, and 6 to 12 disc florets Leaf: dicot; greyish-green with long, soft hairs; arranged alongs the base and stems Fruit: capsules usually smooth but sometimes with very fine hairs Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- Often seen along road edges. Typical location: White Rock The flowers remain for several months and eventually turn papery given the plant its common name. Different Native American tribes have used the plant in a variety of ways from treating a stomachache and snake bite to making it into a yellow dye. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Mary Carol Williams  Photo: Ellen Hildebrandt | Mexican Hat, Long-headed Coneflower, Prairie ConeflowerRACO3 (Ratibida columnifera)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 18 - 36 in (46 - 91 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 30 - Oct 20 Flower: composite; orange, red and yellow; 4 to 12 droopy, streaked ray florets with a notch at the top; long cone covered in dark disc florets; flowerheads are high above the leaves on ribbed stalks Leaf: dicot; long; deeply lobed; toothless with stiff hairs Fruit: cone develops numerous tiny, winged, brown seeds Status: native; locally common Habitat: disturbed soil --- prairie, plains, meadows, pastures, roadsides Typical location: Bypass Road to Ski Hill The Mexican Hat received its common name from the fact that it somewhat resembles the shape of a slender sombrero. It is native to the state but not to Los Alamos. It is smaller than most other coneflowers but has a longer cone and rays that are about the same length as the cone. The Zunis used an infusion of the whole plant as an emetic. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Yvonne Keller  Photo: Mary Carole Williams | Black-eyed Susan, Brown-eyed SusanRUHI2 (Rudbeckia hirta)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 12 - 24 in (30 - 61 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, biennial, perennial Blooms: Jun 26 - Oct 20 Flower: composite; bright yellow with dark center; 8 to 21 ray florets Leaf: dicot; green, oval and covered with hairs Fruit: brown achene with numerous small black seeds Status: native; uncommon Habitat: mixed conifer --- open areas in forests Typical location: Pajarito Upper Canyon Plant blooms continuously up until a harsh frost. Can be considered a short-lived perennial. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Mark Kluge |  Cutleaf Coneflower, Green-headed Coneflower, Tall Coneflower, Golden GlowRULA3 (Rudbeckia laciniata)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 24 - 84 in (61 - 213 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jul 12 - Aug 27 Flower: composite; yellow with brown conical center that is green when immature; daisy-like structure with 6 to 12 ray florets that droop slightly; central cone made up of numerous tubular disc florets Leaf: dicot; large leaves up to 12 in by 12 in (30 cm by 30 cm); 3 to 7 large, elliptical lobes with smooth or toothed edges Fruit: each disk floret is replaced by an oblong achene with a crown of tiny blunt teeth at its apex Status: native; common Habitat: riparian --- stream banks, wet meadows, woodland Typical location: Pajarito Canyon The Cutleaf Coneflower has light green stems that taper slightly. One can often find clonal colonies of these plants that form from long rhizomes. The foliage may be slightly poisonous and therefore is not usually eaten by mammalian herbivores but the seeds are consumed by some birds. Cultivars of Rudbeckia laciniata are often grown as ornamentals and are used in many floral bouquets. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin | Perkysue, Perky SueTEAR4 (Tetraneuris argentea, Hymenoxys argentea )Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: up to 15 in (38 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Apr 01 - Aug 15 Flower: composite; yellow; found on the top of long leafless stalks; a dozen or so notched ray florets stick out very straight from the central disc florets Leaf: dicot; fuzzy silver leaves Fruit: achenes topped with scales Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- niches in solid rock areas Typical location: Lower Quemazon Trail Hearty plant that is the earliest blooming yellow daisy. Has been used heartburn and in a lotion for eczema. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Terry Foxx |  Stiff Greenthread, Hopi TeaTHFI (Thelesperma filifolium)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 4 - 16 in (10 - 41 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual Blooms: May 01 - Oct 30 Flower: composite; yellow ray flowers; reddish disc florets; Leaf: dicot; thin green leaves that are thread-like scattered along the stems Fruit: capsules with tufted hairs Status: native; common Habitat: disturbed soil --- dry hills and plains Typical location: Canyon Rim Trail paved section east end parking When budding, the flower heads droop but stand upright when open. The plant is used to make an herbal tea and is currently cultivated on the Colorado Plateau in New Mexico for this purpose. The seeds are eaten by some birds and the plant is larval food for the sulphur butterfly. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel | Colorado Greenthread, Rio Grande Greenthread, Hopi Tea Greenthread, Navajo TeaTHMEA (Thelesperma megapotamicum)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 6 - 24 in (15 - 61 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual Blooms: Jul 01 - Sep 15 Flower: composite; yellow or orange; located on tips of branching stems; usually disc florets only; bracts surrounding the flowerhead have yellow or white margins Leaf: dicot; grey-green; alternate orientation; mostly compound with linear segments Fruit: achene topped with bristles Status: native; common Habitat: canyon, disturbed soil, grassland --- open areas in pinyon-juniper Typical location: White Rock Like its taller cousin, Cota, Greenthread can be made into an herbal tea and a yellow dye. You can tell Greenthread from Cota by its grey-green vegetation and bare, taller stems, and its flowers have only disk flowers, no ray flowers. Megapotamicum means "big river" -- i.e. the Rio Grande. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig MartinRaphael Mazor |  Townsend's Daisy, Rocky Mountain Townsend Daisy, Tall Townsend DaisyTOEX (Townsendia eximia)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 8 - 12 in (20 - 30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 27 - Oct 20 Flower: composite; purple with yellow center; showy flowerhead 50+ ray florets and 100+ disc florets Leaf: dicot; dense clusters of basal leaves; widely-spaced, alternate spatula-shaped narrow stem leaves Fruit: capsules with tufts of forked hair Status: native; locally common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- gravely banks, canyon walls, woodlands Typical location: Quemazon Trail Unlike other Townsendia species, Townsendia eximia grows upright and has purple flowers rather than white or pink. Its range is primarily confined to Northern and Central New Mexico and far Southern Colorado. Despite its limited range, it appears to be ecologically secure. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Brandt Magic  Photo: Don Lorie  Photo: Chuck Sexton | Yellow Salsify, Western Salsify, Oyster Plant, GoatsbeardTRDU (Tragopogon dubius)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 12 - 24 in (30 - 61 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, biennial Blooms: May 19 - Sep 10 Flower: composite; yellow; single terminal flowerhead on a long stalk; outer florets have 5 small teeth at tip Leaf: dicot; basal and along the stems; grass-like but wider with pointed tips Fruit: long, thin brown seeds with a whitish beak attached a fluffy tannish-white seed head Status: naturalized plant; common Habitat: disturbed soil --- foothills, montane, openings, woodlands, fields Yellow Salsify was introduced from Europe and is naturalized across most of the United States. It is thought that it was brought into the country because the taproot is edible, tasting a bit like oysters. It is considered to be an invasive weed in many areas but has little economic impact. Overall, it is similar to a dandelion but much larger. Info Photos Distribution Weed Guide |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Patrick Alexander  Photo: Patrick Alexander | Spiny Goldenweed, Lacy Tansyaster, Cutleaf Goldenweed, Lacy Sleepy Daisy, Wooly GoldenweedMAPI (Xanthisma spinulosum, Machaeranthera pinnatifida)Family: Asteraceae (Daisies) Size: 10 - 20 in (25 - 51 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 11 - Aug 02 Flower: composite; bright yellow; 16+ florets with numerous disc florets; flowerheads can be singular or in small clusters on the tips of stiff branches Leaf: dicot; silvery green; thin and deeply lobed with dense white hairs/spines Fruit: whitish tan, hairy, ovoid capsules Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- semi-desert, open areas, hillsides Typical location: Red Dot Trail Spiny Goldenweed is a highly variable plant. Last years’s flowers are often present until the new ones appear. It may be a small plant but it spreads rapids so that it can blanket large areas up to several acres in yellow flowers. Xanthisma spinulosum is an interesting scientifically as it is the species with the lowest number of chromosomes of any plant investigated so far, with only 4 chromosomes. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin | James' Cryptantha, James' Hiddenflower, James' CatseyeCRCIJ (Cryptantha cinerea, Oreocarya suffruticosa)Family: Boraginaceae (Borages) Size: up to 4 in (10 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Apr 15 - Sep 10 Flower: simple; white with yellow corolla tube; dozen of clusters per plant that elongate with age Leaf: dicot; narrow, linear leaves; sparse hairs Fruit: four identical smooth nutlets Status: native; uncommon Habitat: pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- open areas, semi-desert Typical location: Anniversary Trail One of the most shrub-like of the genus with many branches and bristly hairs. Found in open areas below 8,000 ft (2,400 m). Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: Craig Martin |  Manyflower Stickseed, Many-Flower Stickseed, Manyflowered Stickseed, False Forget-Me-NotHAFL2 (Hackelia floribunda)Family: Boraginaceae (Borages) Size: 12 - 40 in (30 - 102 cm) Growth: forb/herb; biennial, perennial Blooms: Jul 14 - Sep 10 Flower: simple; blue with yellow center; tiny; funnel-shaped; 5 lobes around a central tube; clusters of flowers on branched stem Leaf: dicot; large, thin; alternate arrangement; lower leaves have stalks; upper ones do not Fruit: tiny, flattened nutlets, bristly along the edge Status: native; uncommon Habitat: mixed conifer --- open areas, montane Typical location: Valle Canyon Hackelia Floribunda is a lush herb with hairy stems that tend to grow at a 45 degree angle. The seeds are quite prickly contributing to the plant’s common name of Stickweed. The seeds tend to cling to pieces of clothing and potentially can cause some irritation. There have been reports of Native Americans using the plant for medicinal purposes. Info Photos Distribution Weed Guide |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel | Manyflowered Stoneseed, Yellow Puccoon, Manyflowered GroomwellLIMU3 (Lithospermum multiflorum)Family: Boraginaceae (Borages) Size: 12 - 24 in (30 - 61 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: May 19 - Aug 02 Flower: simple; yellow; trumpet-shaped with 5 lobes Leaf: dicot; narrow; close together; slightly toothed; alternative arrangement Fruit: white, shiny nutlets Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- montane, subalpine, woodlands, openings This plant grows in clumps. The upper half is branched with numerous flower clusters. The roots and seeds have been used by some Native American tribes. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Chick Keller |  Slimleaf Plainsmustard, Pink WindmillsSCLI12 (Schoenocrambe linearifolia, Hesperidanthus linearifolius )Family: Brassicaceae (Mustards) Size: 6 - 8 in (15 - 20 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 16 - Sep 20 Flower: simple; pink, purple and/or white; darker veins; located on tips of slender unbranched stems; 4 septals and 4 petals Leaf: dicot; simple, long; toothed edges; alternate orientation Fruit: straight, slightly tapered long capsules Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- dry slopes, open woodland, canyons, rocky ridges, roadsides Typical location: Bayo Bench Trail Tall, slender plant with a few flowers at the top. It has been used in ceremonies by Native Americans and as an eye medicine. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: Craig Martin |  Wright's ThelypodyTHWR (Thelypodium wrightii)Family: Brassicaceae (Mustards) Size: 24 - 40 in (61 - 102 cm) Growth: forb/herb; biennial, perennial Blooms: Jun 15 - Jul 31 Flower: simple; white, occasionally purple; petals shaped like thick fingers; rounded clusters on tips of branches Leaf: dicot; lanceolate, lacy leaflets on each side of stem; margins variable Fruit: long, thin capsules Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- rock crevices, pinyon-juniper communities, oak woodlands It has been said that if the flower heads of Wright's Thelypody were different colors that it would resemble a decorated Christmas tree with rounded balls at the end of its sprawling branches. This species of thelypody lives in the middle to upper elevations. It has been used as a dermatological aid and as an eye medic but the Native Americans. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Akkana Peck  Photo: Akkana Peck |  Tree Cholla, Walking Stick Cholla, Cane ChollaCYIM2 (Cylindropuntia imbricata)Family: Cactaceae (Cacti) Size: up to 120 in (305 cm) Growth: shrub, tree; perennial Blooms: Jun 01 - Jul 31 Flower: simple; pink; large and numerous; flowers are borne on a specific type of stem Leaf: dicot; leaves have been reduced to thick spines that numerous along the main branches Fruit: yellow and spineless; persists throughout winter Status: native; locally common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- open areas, scrub Typical location: White Rock Canyon The plant’s woody skeleton is often used to make walking sticks, hence the common names. This attractive cactus does not flower every year, but can be spectacular when it does flower. The fruit is edible but is not commonly eaten. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Akkana Peck  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Matthew Salkiewicz |  Tulip Prickly Pear Cactus, Desert Prickly Pear, Brown-spined Pricklypear, Dark-spined Prickly PearOPPH (Opuntia phaeacantha)Family: Cactaceae (Cacti) Size: 4 - 10 in (10 - 25 cm) Growth: shrub; perennial Blooms: May 20 - Aug 01 Flower: simple; yellow, orange, or pink; very large and open wide Leaf: dicot; clusters of 8 or fewer thick white or brown central spines; may have no spines on the base of the pads Fruit: reddish purple fruits with green flesh Status: native; common Habitat: disturbed soil, open area, scrubland --- grasslands, pine-juniper,scrub Typical location: Red Dot Trail Our most common species of prickly pear. It is highly variable and is prone to hybridize with other species. The fruit is edible and can sometimes be found in the markets. It is often used to flavor lemonade and margaritas. During dry periods the dark green pads may take on a purplish tinge. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: David Schiferl  Photo: Craig Martin |  Bluebell Bellflower, HarebellCARO2 (Campanula rotundifolia)Family: Campanulaceae (Bellflowers) Size: 4 - 15 in (10 - 38 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jul 08 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; blue to purple; racemes with many flowers on slender pedicels; 5 petals fused in bell-shape Leaf: dicot; rounded to heart-shaped; usually slightly toothed with prominent pores Fruit: grows out of the flower into a nodding capsule; splits open when ripe Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- rocky slopes, meadows, woods, roadsides Typical location: Canada Bonita Common at a variety of elevations. They are usually found in small groups or larger colonies. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Russel Pfau  Photo: Alison Young  Photo: Barbara Calef | Twinberry Honeysuckle, Bush Honeysuckle, Inkberry, Black Twinberry, Bearberry Honeysuckle, Four-line HoneysuckleLOIN5 (Lonicera involucrata)Family: Caprifoliaceae (Honeysuckles) Size: 45 - 300 in (114 - 762 cm) Growth: shrub; perennial Blooms: May 01 - Jul 31 Flower: simple; yellow with red; tubular paired flowers; sweetly scented and nectar-producing Leaf: dicot; elliptic to lance-shaped; opposite orientation Fruit: dark, shiny, purplish berries; surrounded by green woolly bracts that turn deep red with time Status: native; common Habitat: garden, mountain meadow, stream --- moist areas at forest openings and meadow edges at high altitude --- 7,000-10,000 ft (2,000 to 3,000 m) Typical location: East Fork of Jemez River, Frijoles Canyon Like other honeysuckles, this plant is often used as a garden ornamental. Its flowers attract hummingbirds and birds feed on the fruits. The berries are juicy but intensely bitter and potentially toxic for human consumption. However, they have been used as a dye source. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: Yvonne Keller  Photo: Sharon |  Rocky Mountain Beeplant, Skunk Weed, Bee Spider FlowerCLSE (Cleome serrulata, Cleome serrulata)Family: Cleomaceae (Mustards) Size: 5 - 40 in (13 - 102 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual Blooms: Jul 10 - Sep 22 Flower: simple; pink; each flower has 4 petals and sepals and 6 long, showy stamens; clustered in elongated racemes Leaf: dicot; trifoliate with small teeth; spirally arranged Fruit: distinctive podlike capsules; up to 4 inches(10 cm) long; droop down from elongated stems Status: native; uncommon Habitat: disturbed soil --- foothills, montane, woodlands Flowers produce large amounts of nectar. They form a showy cluster that continues to elongate during the season so that seed pods may be present at the same time as new blooms. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators. A black dye, used for paining pots, can be made by boiling down the whole plant. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Alex Abair  Photo: Christy King | Woodland Pinedrops, PinedropsPTAN2 (Pterospora andromedea)Family: Ericaceae (Heathers) Size: up to 24 in (61 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 26 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; yellow with red; egg=shaped; hang in a long raceme Leaf: dicot; no true leaves; sometimes scales growing on the flower stalk Fruit: small rounded capsules; brown and dry at maturity; seeds escape through slits in the sides of the fruit Status: native; uncommon Habitat: ponderosa --- montane, confer woodlands Woodland Pinedrops have no chlorophyll, rather the plant is a parasite on mycorrhizal fungi which in turn parasitize conifer roots. Its stems which often form clusters are reddish-brown plant and covered with glandular hairs. Stems only grow for one year, but remain for several years as dried stalks. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: Frank Vincentz  Photo: C Whiting |  Toothed Spurge, Toothed Poinsettia, Green PoinsettiaEUDE4 (Euphorbia dentata)Family: Euphorbiaceae (Spurges) Size: up to 24 in (61 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual Blooms: Jul 01 - Sep 30 Flower: simple; green with white; tiny, indistinct cluster at tip of stem; fringed margins Leaf: dicot; alternate orientation at bottom, opposite at top; elliptical-shaped; toothed; may have red spots Fruit: three lobed, stalked capsule; may turn reddish in sunlight; gray-brown seeds Status: native; common Habitat: disturbed soil --- White Rock road edges Typical location: White Rock Each cluster of Toothed Spurge flowers has several structures called cyathia, each with a mixture of inconspicuous flowers and immature fruits. The fruit develops rapidly from the center, initially hanging down, but becoming erect at maturity. The sap of the plant is irritating to the skin and eyes and can cause gastrointestinal tract problems in herbivores that browse on it. Therefore, it is considered a noxious weed in many parts of the US. The Toothed Spurge is in the same genus as the Christmas Poinsettia. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Mark Kluge | Purple Prairie-Clover, Violet Prairie loverDAPU5 (Dalea purpurea)Family: Fabaceae (Peas) Size: 8 - 30 in (20 - 76 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 24 - Sep 10 Flower: simple; pink or purple; long cone-like flower heads each on a long stem Leaf: dicot; pinnate arrangement with odd central leaflet; 3 to 5 narrow leaflets Fruit: tiny, egg-shaped pod containing 1 or 2 seeds Status: native; uncommon Habitat: pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- open, rocky sites, prairies, open woodland, forest openings It is a nitrogen fixing plant and not a true clover in the genus Trifolium. The mature plant has a large taproot and woody stems which has allowed it to adapt to a habitat with periodic wildfires. It is nutritious plant and provides food from many animals and livestock. The leaves can be used to make a tea and the stems were used as brooms. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: scottmo  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Craig Martin | Nevada Peavine, White Peavine, Arizona PeavineLALAL3 (Lathyrus lanszwertii var. leucanthus)Family: Fabaceae (Peas) Size: 12 - 24 in (30 - 61 cm) Growth: forb/herb, vine; perennial Blooms: May 30 - Oct 25 Flower: simple; white with a small mount of pink; grow in clusters from long flower stalks Leaf: dicot; two types of leaves: elliptical (higher elevation) versus narrow, linear (lower elevation) Fruit: boat-shaped pod Status: native; uncommon Habitat: ponderosa --- montane, subalpine, woodlands Typical location: Canada Bonita Trail, Valle Canyon Grows from 4,000 ft (1.2 km) to timberline with elevation influencing leaf shape. Like other legumes, fixes nitrogen. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Christina M. Selby  Photo: Chick Keller | Tailcup Lupine, Spurred LupineLUCA (Lupinus caudatus)Family: Fabaceae (Peas) Size: 8 - 24 in (20 - 61 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 14 - Aug 18 Flower: simple; blue to purple; individual flowers are scattered on 2 to 6 ft (0.6 to 1.8 m) spikes Leaf: dicot; often silvery; palmately compound; silky hairs Fruit: pinkish-brown, silky pods Status: native; locally common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- grassland, sagebrush, desert and mountain shrub, forest Typical location: Behind Guaje Pines Cemetery Seeds can be toxic to humans and animals. The flowers are of special value to bumble bees. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Patrick Alexander  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: James Bailey | New Mexico Locust, Mescal BeanRONE (Robinia neomexicana)Family: Fabaceae (Peas) Size: up to 300 in (762 cm) Growth: shrub, tree; perennial Blooms: May 07 - Jul 22 Flower: simple; pink-to-purple; pea-shaped and fragrant; clusters hang from the branches near the ends Leaf: dicot; oblong leaflets arranged on either side of the stem with thorns at the base Fruit: hairy, bean-like pods; pods and seeds will persist for some time Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- deserts, mesa, canyons, conifer forests This many-branched, thicket-forming shrub has reddish-purple branches. Although a true locust, it does not have the invasive characteristics of other species. The New Mexico is sometimes used as an ornamental. Pueblo Native Americans traditionally ate the raw flowers, while the foliage and seeds are eaten by wildlife. Info Photos Distribution Tree Guide |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Walter Siegmund |  American VetchVIAM (Vicia americana)Family: Fabaceae (Peas) Size: 6 - 30 in (15 - 76 cm) Growth: forb/herb, vine; perennial Blooms: May 27 - Sep 22 Flower: simple; purple; arranged in loose clusters Leaf: dicot; pinnate; alternate arrangement Fruit: oblong, flattened pod that hands down Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- foothills, montane, subalpine, woodlands, meadows A slender, climbing plant with tendrils that can attach to other vegetation or structures. Nitrogen fixer. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Craig Martin | Redstem Stork's Bill, Redstem Filaree, Pinweed, CranesbillERCI6 (Erodium cicutarium)Family: Geraniacea (Geraniums) Size: 6 - 12 in (15 - 30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, biennial Blooms: Jan 02 - Dec 30 Flower: simple; pink, often with dark spots; arranged in loose clusters with 10 filaments Leaf: dicot; deeply cleft; fern-like Fruit: long, narrow, pointed seed pods Status: naturalized plant; common Habitat: disturbed soil --- desert scrub, grasslands, oak woodlands, semi-desert grassland, lawns, gardens; more common at lower elevations It was introduced into California from the Mediterranean Basin in the eighteenth century. The entire plant is edible and resembles a parsley when picked young. It is considered to be a weed in some areas. Info Photos Distribution Weed Guide |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: ajileong5 | Pineywoods Geranium, Purple GeraniumGECA3 (Geranium caespitosum)Family: Geraniaceae (Geraniums) Size: up to 18 in (46 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 01 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; pink or purple; 5 elliptic to obovate petals; dark veins Leaf: dicot; deep cuts and 5 to 7 rounded lobes; lined with large teeth Fruit: long thin capsule with 1 seed Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- foothills, montane, subalpine, woodlands Typical location: Valle Canyon Each plant only has a few flowers and tends to lean and sprawl. Can be seen trailside hidden by grasses with its reddish, short-hairy stems. Parts of the plant have been used as an astringent and to treat sores. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel | Richardson's Geranium, White CranesbillGERI (Geranium richardsonii)Family: Geraniaceae (Geraniums) Size: 8 - 32 in (20 - 81 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 01 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; white or purple with dark purple veins; 5 septals and 5 pointed petals Leaf: dicot; palmate-shaped with 5 segments Fruit: small, straight body with a short style Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer --- foothills, montane, subalpine, woodlands, meadows Typical location: Canada Bonita Trail This geranium is found just below tree line. Its size is sensitive to the amount of moisture it receives. It grows from a tough, woody taproot and will develop rhizomes as it ages. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Chick Keller | Fivepetal Cliffbush, Five-petal Cliffbush, WaxflowerJAAM (Jamesia americana)Family: Hydrangeaceae (Hydrangeas) Size: 36 - 72 in (91 - 183 cm) Growth: shrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 11 - Jul 22 Flower: simple; white to pink; 4 or 5 petals; produced in erect branching clusters Leaf: dicot; broadly oval and coarsely-toothed; opposite arrangement Fruit: dry capsule with numerous small seeds Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- grows in mountainous areas in the range of 5400 - 9800 ft (1600 – 3000 m) Typical location: Kinnikinnick Park The genus Jamesia contains the last two species of shrubby plants in the hydrangea family surviving in the US. The genus is named for Edwin James who was the first non-native explorer to climb to the top of Pike’s Peak and described over a 100 new species. Jamesia americana is the more common of the two species and is noted for shreddy, gray to reddish-brown bark and numerous flowers. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin | Littleleaf Mock Orange, Littleleaf MockorangePHMI4 (Philadelphus microphyllus)Family: Hydrangeaceae (Hydrangeas) Size: 48 - 72 in (122 - 183 cm) Growth: shrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 24 - Aug 18 Flower: simple; white with yellow center; 4 petals and sepals; solitary flower or at most a cluster of 2 or 3; sweetly scented Leaf: dicot; small leaves, opposite orientation; lance-shaped with serrated margins Fruit: small capsule containing numerous tiny seeds Status: native; uncommon Habitat: ponderosa --- arid rocky slopes, cliffs, coniferous woods Littleleaf Mock Orange received its common in reference to its flowers which look similar to those of many citrus fruits and smell like orange flowers. Augustus Fendler was the first to find this plant in 1847 in the mountains above Santa Fe. The young branches of the plant are covered with stiff hairs while the older branches have grayish, shedding bark. This plant may be somewhat toxic to livestock. The leaves can be crushed and mixed with water to produce a soap. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: sea-kangaroo | Rocky Mountain Iris, Western Blue Flag Iris, Paria IrisIRMI (Iris missouriensis)Family: Iridaceae (Irises) Size: 12 - 36 in (30 - 91 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: May 30 - Jul 19 Flower: simple; blue to purple, rarely white; deeply veined; petals upright and spread out; usually only 2 or 3 per plant Leaf: monocot; stiff, very long, light green leaves with some white at the base Fruit: seedpods upright, large and chunky Status: native; common Habitat: montane --- foothills, subalpine, wetlands, meadows, openings Typical location: Canada Bonita Often found in large patches in meadows and mountain foothills but grows as a solitary plant in woods. Considered a nuisance in pasture land due to its bitter taste and grazing only promotes further growth. The Zuni used the chewed root as a poultice for newborns. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: lysa  Photo: Chick Keller | Wild Bergamot, Mintleaf Beebalm, HorsemintMOFI (Monarda fistulosa)Family: Lamiaceae (Mints) Size: 30 - 36 in (76 - 91 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jul 02 - Aug 27 Flower: simple; pink, purple, or white; clusters of flowers that look like pompoms Leaf: dicot; gray-green; smell minty Fruit: very small oblong nutlet Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer --- dry open woods, fields, wet meadows and ditches Typical location: Pajarito Canyon Bergamot grows from slender creeping rhizomes. Can be used to make a mint tea. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Alex Abair  Photo: Mitch Manford | Common Selfheal, Heal-allPRVU (Prunella vulgaris)Family: Lamiaceae (Mints) Size: 2 - 12 in (5 - 30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 22 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; shades of purple, occasionally white; long, fused tube; 2 lips with lower lip toothed Leaf: dicot; opposite arrangement; oval to lance-shaped with a blunt tip; hairy and shallowly toothed Fruit: yellowish-brown with dark stripes; 4-sectioned capsule Status: native; uncommon Habitat: riparian --- montane, subalpine, woodlands, meadows Typical location: Canada Bonita This is a very small, slender mint that is often missed. The plant is known as “heal-all” due to its traditional use in healing several ailments such as wounds and throat infections. The leaves can be eaten either cooked or raw. A cold water infusion makes a refreshing drink. The plant propagates both by seed and by creeping stems that root at the nodes. It makes a good ground cover. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Chick Keller | Mariposa LilyCAGU (Calochortus gunnisonii)Family: Liliaceae (Lilies) Size: up to 18 in (46 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jul 14, 2000 - Aug 27, 2000 Flower: simple; purple to white; dark purple markings; large, showy, and bell-shaped; sepals shorter than petals, filaments shorter than anthers Leaf: monocot; thin grass-like; hairless; basal leaves wither with the season Fruit: linear, erect capsule; seeds flat and inflated Status: native; common Habitat: foothills, montane, subalpine, meadows Typical location: Camp May The genus of the plant (Calochortus comes from the Greek for “beautiful” and “grass”, referring to its exotic flowers and thin leaves. The flower is distinguished by a broad band of yellow hairs above an elliptically-shaped structure on each petal. The plant sprouts from bulbs that are buried deep within the soil. The bulbs are edible. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: hikingsandiego | Western Blue Flax, Lewis Flax, Prairie FlaxLILE3 (Linum lewisii)Family: Linaceae (Flax) Size: 18 - 20 in (46 - 51 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: May 19 - Aug 18 Flower: simple; blue or purple; darker veins; 5 petals Leaf: dicot; narrow long leaves; bristle at top Fruit: sphericl to elliptical capsule; spits open on the top Status: native; uncommon Habitat: ponderosa --- foothills, montane, subalpine, woodlands, openings, meadows Typical location: Lower Quemazon Trail This flax has long slender stems that often bend over as buds develop. The buds will open at sunrise and stay open only part of the day. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Becky Shankland  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: Alex Abair | Adonis Blazingstar, Stickleaf, Manyflowered BlazingstarMEMU3 (Mentzelia multiflora)Family: Loasaceae (Blazingstar/Stickleaf) Size: 24 - 30 in (61 - 76 cm) Growth: forb/herb; biennial, perennial Blooms: Jun 01 - Aug 31 Flower: simple; yellow or white with yellow center; 5 petals and 5 septa’s; long, outer rows of stamens resembling petals Leaf: dicot; bright green; long, narrow and lobed; covered in short, hooked hairs; sticky Fruit: greenish cup-shaped capsules; seeds oval with wing Status: native; uncommon Habitat: disturbed soil The Adonis Bazingstar has several distinctive features that make it relatively easy to recognize. It tall with whitish, multi branched stems. The lower surface of the leaves adheres tightly to clothing. The flowers open in the afternoon and are closed during the following morning. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: Akkana Peck |  Scarlet Globemallow, Caliche Globemallow, Cowboy's DelightSPCO (Sphaeralcea coccinea)Family: Malvaceae (Mallows) Size: 4 - 16 in (10 - 41 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; biennial, perennial Blooms: Apr 22 - Oct 15 Flower: simple; red to orange; overall saucer-shaped; 5 notched, broad petals in a terminal cluster Leaf: dicot; palm-like leaves covered in a soft, velvet layer of hair Fruit: schizocarp with up to 14 single-seeded carpels Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- semi-desert, foothills, disturbed areas, woodlands Typical location: Red Dot Trail The Scarlet Globemallow spreads by rhizomes and may lean over or stay close to the ground since its stems are not sturdy. It is covered in dense hairs. Deer and other wildlife will graze on the plant, while birds and small animals eat the fruit. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel | Fendler's Globemallow, Desert Globemallow, Thicket GlobemallowSPFEE (Sphaeralcea fendleri)Family: Malvaceae (Mallows) Size: 36 - 48 in (91 - 122 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jul 14 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; various shades of orange with yellow center; hibiscus-like with 5 petals and 5 septas that are fully opened Leaf: dicot; gray-green with fine star-shaped hairs; alternate arrangement; lobed or veined with scalloped margins Fruit: spherical, dehiscent, pie-shaped capsule that splits into segments Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- desert, upper elevation foothill canyons, mountain Sphaeralcea fendleri can be distinguished from other Globemallows by the fact that it does not display distinctive cup-shaped flowers but rather fully opened petals that do not overlap or touch. This plant is an important food source for Bighorn Sheep and it is likely that its large seeds are eaten rodents. Like others Globemallows, Fendler’s produces a mucilaginous compound that can soothe skin irritations and insect bites. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: Eric Howe | Mountain Deathcamas, Elegant Camas, Alkali GrassZIEL2 (Zigadenus elegans, Anticlea elegans)Family: Melanthiaceae (Death Camus) Size: 6 - 30 in (15 - 76 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jul 09 - Sep 10 Flower: simple; white with green; lily-like flowers with two-pronged, greenish glands on each petal; 3 petals and 3 sepals, identical in appearance (tepals); dense clusters along upper portion of stems Leaf: monocot; long, thin leaves; mostly basal with faint parallel line and a midrib Fruit: 3-parted, oval shaped cone Status: native; uncommon Habitat: mixed conifer --- subalpine, meadows Typical location: Canada Bonita Trail The Mountain Deathcamas is not a grass even though its leaves are grass-like. It has received its common name from the fact that all parts of the plant are highly poisonous. It was responsible for the deaths of many early setters due to the fact that it is similar in some ways to certain edible species like onion. Stout stems grow out of a large, black-coated bulb. It has also been the cause of death for livestock. Meriweather Lewis collected a specimen near the Blackfoot River during the 1806 expedition. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel | Colorado Four O'clockMIMU (Mirabilis multiflora, Mirabilis glandulosa)Family: Nyctaginaceae (Four O'Clocks) Size: 15 - 18 in (38 - 46 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 16 - Sep 10 Flower: simple; pink or purple; tubular with 5 lobes Leaf: dicot; thick, shiny, and cordate; opposite arrangement Fruit: dark; shaped like miniature hand-grenades Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- grows on mesas, not canyons Typical location: Anniversary Trail Erect plant with hemispherical bushy growth. Flowers open in late afternoon. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: David  Photo: M Feaver | Fireweed, Willow Herb, Great Willow HerbCHAN9 (Chamerion angustifolium, Epilobium angustifolium)Family: Onagraceae (Evening Primroses) Size: 48 - 72 in (122 - 183 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jul 01 - Sep 23 Flower: simple; pink to purple and white; many flowers in an elongated cluster; 4 sepals with 4 larger petals for each individual flower; curling white stamens, topped by brownish-red anthers Leaf: dicot; long, narrow lanceolate; grow on lower half of stem; point slightly upwards; 2 outermost veins form a ring Fruit: slender, elongated capsule with tufts of hair Status: native; locally common Habitat: mixed conifer --- forest openings and edges, grasslands, tundra edges, moist meadow Typical location: Nail Trail, Pajarito Canyon The common name of Fireweed is derived from the abundance of this plant as a colonizer on burnt sites after forest fires. The flowers are visited by a variety of insects. Many butterflies and moths use it as the host plant for laying their eggs. Several different Native American tribes use the plant as a food source. It has also been used medicinally to treat boils and cuts. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Barbara Calef | Tufted Evening Primrose, Fragarent Evening Primrose, Gumbo Evening PrimroseOECA10 (Oenothera caespitosa)Family: Onagraceae (Evening Primroses) Size: up to 8 in (20 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Mar 27 - Jul 17 Flower: simple; white; 4 petals that are deeply notched at tip; flowers become pink as they age Leaf: dicot; long, thin, lobed leaves; irregularly lobed or toothed Fruit: rough seedpods; inconspicuous Status: native; uncommon Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- foothills, montane, woodlands, openings Typical location: Anniversary Trail Spreads by underground roots and often forms large colonies. Flowers open with the evening and wither to pink by the next afternoon. Dependent on hawkmoths for pollination. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: James Bailey  Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: hikingsandiego | Hooker's Evening Primrose, Western Evening Primose, Hooker's Evening-PrimroseOEEL (Oenothera elata)Family: Onagraceae (Evening Primroses) Size: up to 36 in (91 cm) Growth: forb/herb; biennial, perennial Blooms: Jun 26 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; yellow, turning orange when wilted the morning after opening; 4 heart-shaped petals with protruding stamens; borne atop long stems Leaf: dicot; grey-green; white veins; sparse hairs; form a basal rosette Fruit: narrow, long capsules that taper upward; reddish-brown seeds Status: native; common Habitat: disturbed soil, ponderosa --- foothills, montane, wet meadows, roadsides Typical location: Los Alamos This is one of the largest and showiest of the evening primroses. The flowers are fragrant and attract many moths and butterflies. The plant produces a large number of seeds which in turn attract a large variety of seed-eating birds. The Zuni people used a poultice of the powdered flower to treat swellings. In addition, various parts of the plant have been used for the treatment of colds. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig martin  Photo: Ellen Hildebrandt | Scarlet Beeblossom, Scarlet Gaura, Scarlet EveningprimroseGACO5 (Oenothera suffrutescens)Family: Onagraceae (Evening Primroses) Size: up to 12 in (30 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jul 14 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; white to pink; four spoon-shaped petals that start out as white and turn pink with ages; four long, stiff sepals which open and fall outward; spike inflorescence Leaf: dicot; long, linear; margins wavey; alternate arrangement Fruit: short, woody ice-cream cone-shaped capsule Status: native; uncommon Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- dry prairies, roadsides, disturbed sites Colony forming plant with several stems branched near the base. The color change in the flowers can occur as quickly as over a single day. This plant is found across much of North America, in particular the western and central regions. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin |  Summer Coralroot, Spotted Coralroot, Spotted Coral RootCOMA25 (Corallorhiza maculata)Family: Orchidaceae (Orchids) Size: 8 - 20 in (20 - 51 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 16 - Jul 19 Flower: simple; variable color, typically reddish to purple; 3 sepals and 2 slightly curved lateral petals; white lip often with reddish-purple spots Leaf: monocot; small and grow regularly all around stem Fruit: ellipsoid capsules that hand down Status: native; uncommon Habitat: mixed conifer --- montane woodlands Typically the stalks of this orchid are red but occasional albino plant with yellow stems are seen. It gets its name from the fact that the rhizome and lower stem are often knotted in such a way as to be reminiscent of coral. This plant is myco-heterotropic, meaning that it primarily does not use photosynthesis to get energy but rather obtains its nutrients by parasitizing the mycelium of certain fungi. It is capable of self-pollination but can be pollinated by insects. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Craig Martin | Wholeleaf Indian Paintbrush, Squawfleather, Southwestern Indian Paintbrush, Cola de BorrejoCAIN14 (Castilleja integra)Family: Orobanchaceae (Broomrapes) Size: up to 16 in (41 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Apr 18 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; Red or orange specialized leaves or bracts form on spikes; flowers are a small green tubes protruding above the bracts Leaf: dicot; Narrow, unlobed, undivided; tinges of light purple on some Fruit: capsule filled with numerous seed Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- foothills, montane, shrublands, woodlands Typical location: Canyon Rim Trail paved section, Quemazon Trail The common name "wholeleaf" refers to the lack of lobes on the leaves and bracts. The plant’s roots will grow and penetrate those of other plants in order to obtain nutrients. The stems of the plant have white hairs. The Zuni used to mix the roots with minerals to make a black dye. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Terry Foxx |  Wyoming Indian Paintbrush, Wyoming PaintbrushCALI4 (Castilleja linariifolia)Family: Orobanchaceae (Broomrapes) Size: up to 40 in (102 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 26 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; red bracts cut deeply on one side; yellow-green flower tubes, often hidden except for the tip; torch-like spikes Leaf: dicot; narrow and unlobed; edges folded upward Fruit: ovoid capsule with many tiny seeds Status: native; uncommon Habitat: ponderosa --- foothills, montane, shrublands, woodlands Typical location: Middle Quemazon Trail on north side This species of paintbrush is distinguished from other paintbrushes by preferring a lower elevation and having narrower leaves. It is the state flower of Wyoming and grows across most of the west. Its roots grow until they touch the roots of other plants. Then the paintbrush’s roots will penetrate the roots of the other plants, taking nutrients from the host plant. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: PEEC  Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: twr61 |  Giant Red Indian Paintbrush, Scarlet Indian Paintbrush, Meadow PaintbrushCAMI12 (Castilleja miniata)Family: Orobanchaceae (Broomrapes) Size: up to 20 in (51 cm) Growth: forb/herb, subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 26 - Oct 20 Flower: simple; green with red bracts; large red structures along the top part of the tall stems are modified leaves; flower is small tubes at the top Leaf: dicot; fairly wide; pointed; 3 veins Fruit: oblong capsule with numerous seeds; splits lengthwise to expose seeds Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer --- montane, subalpine, meadows Typical location: Canada Bonita Trail The plant is one of the most common species of this large genus. The plant is usually unbranched and the upper red bracts are often cut into three segments. Though the upper bracts are mostly red, they can be seen in pink or orange. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Donna Pomeroy | Alpine WoodsorrelOXAL2 (Oxalis alpina)Family: Oxalidaceae (Wood Sorrels) Size: up to 8 in (20 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jul 14 - Sep 22 Flower: simple; pink or purple; 5 petals; narrow stalklike base Leaf: dicot; 3 palmate leaflets that droop at night or in the cold Fruit: ellipsoid capsules Status: native; uncommon Habitat: mixed conifer --- rocky places in deciduous, pine-oak, or coniferous forests Typical location: Canada Bonita Trail The plant grows from a bulb-like tuber. Typically found at higher elevations. Contains oxalic acid in the leaves and stems. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Rebecca Shankland  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Craig Martin | Scrambled Eggs, Golden Smoke, Golden CorydalisCOAU2 (Corydalis aurea)Family: Papaveraceae (Poppies) Size: up to 18 in (46 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, biennial Blooms: Apr 01 - Aug 18 Flower: simple; yellow; spur at the back of each flower; form tightly packed clusters with up to 30 flowers Leaf: dicot; blue-green leaves divided into leaflets with oval or diamond lobes Fruit: cylindrical capsules; curve upward Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer, pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- montane, subalpine, woodlands Typical location: Valle Canyon Often mistaken for a pea rather than a poppy. The stems are weak and are often supported by vegetation or rocks. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Russell Pfau  Photo: Nathan Taylor | Beardlip Penstemon, Red Beardtongue, Scarlet BuglerPEBA2 (Penstemon barbatus)Family: Plantaginaceae (Speedwells) Size: 24 - 36 in (61 - 91 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 08 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; red; tubular flowers with two lips; lower lip divided into 3 lobes and bent backwards; flowers dropped slightly; arranged in pairs Leaf: dicot; slender, long linear to oval; less frequent on the upper stems Fruit: capsules that split open longitudinally to release several brown seeds Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- open, rocky soil in mixed conifer forests Typical location: Dot Grant Trail Penstemon barbatus is one of the few red flowered penstemons. It gets its species name from ‘barbatus’ meaning bearded which is an allusion to the hairs into the throat of the flower. The leaves and stems may have a pale whitish covering. The plant has been used ceremonially, as a decoration, and for treatment of a variety of issues. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Jerry Friedman  Photo: Patrick Alexander | Upright Blue Beardtongue, Upright Blue Penstemon, Wandbloom PenstemonPEVI4 (Penstemon virgatus)Family: Plantaginaceae (Speedwells) Size: 8 - 24 in (20 - 61 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 01 - Jul 31 Flower: simple; purple and/or white; 5-lobed corolla; throat streaked with dark purple guidelines Leaf: dicot; thin and long; occasionally bent upwards on either side Fruit: capsules that release short, dark brown seeds when split open Status: native; locally common Habitat: ponderosa --- pine forests, mountain meadows Typical location: Dot Grant Trail, Guaje Pines Cemetery Upright Blue Beardtongue is exclusively found in the wild at elevations above 5,000 ft (1,500 m). Its genus comes from “peane” (Latin) and “stamen” (Greek), meaning almost thread and alluding to the single sterile stamen in each flower. The roots have been used ceremonially by Navajo. The plant is of special value to native bees. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Howard Bruner  Photo: JD McCoy | June Grass, Prairie Junegrass, Prairie Koeler's GrassKOMA (Koeleria macrantha)Family: Poaceae (Grasses) Size: up to 24 in (61 cm) Growth: graminoid; perennial Blooms: Jul 02 - Aug 18 Flower: simple; light green to silver-green as matures; long tapered, spike-like inflorescence rising above the basal foliage Leaf: dicot; grayish-blue; flat but may be slightly rolled inward; usually hairless; alternate arrangement Fruit: silver-gray seed heads; slightly flattened, ellipsoid grains that are light colored Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- prairie, fields, open areas June Grass is a cool season, tufted, perennial bunch grass. It usually does not form dense colonies but rather grows clusters. It is one of the most noticeable plants in the area due to the sunlight streaming through these fronds makes this one of the most noticeable plants in the woods. Although it is a good food source for many grazing animals. It is also a food plant for many species of grasshopper. However, it is a severe allergen for humans who are sensitive to grasses. It is used as a low-maintenance lawn and turf grass, used in the roughs at some golf courses. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: scottmo  Photo: scottmo  Photo: twr61 | Scarlet Gilia, Skyrocket Gilia, SkunkflowerIPAG (Ipomopsis aggregata)Family: Polemoniaceae (Phlox) Size: up to 12 in (30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; biennial, perennial Blooms: Jun 27 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; red; long, trumpet-shaped and thin; corolla opens out with 5 pinted lobes, forming a star shape Leaf: dicot; silver with fine hairs; deeply lobed and concentrated around the base Fruit: capsules with 5 to 10 sees per locule Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- semi-desert, foothills, montane, woodlands, meadows, openings Typical location: Valle Canyon Pronounced “JILL-ee-uh”. Occurs at a range of elevations. It is pollinated most commonly by long-tongued moths and hummingbirds. Its common name of “skyrocket” relates to the fact that the lobes of the flowers curve back as if blown by rocketing through the air. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Alex Abair  Photo: Akkana Peck  Photo: Patrick Alexander |  Flaxflowered Ipomopsis, Flaxflowered GiliaIPLO2 (Ipomopsis longiflora)Family: Polemoniaceae (Phlox) Size: 10 - 40 in (25 - 102 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, biennial Blooms: Jul 15 - Nov 15 Flower: simple; blue, purple, and/or white; long, slender corolla tube with 5 petals each ending in a point Leaf: dicot; grow at intervals along the branches; finely divided; covered with very short hairs Fruit: oval capsules with multiple seeds Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper --- dry plains, mesas Typical location: Water Canyon Moths are attracted to the flowers at night. When not in flower The plant is often difficult to identify when not in flower as its whisky stems and leaves merge with the grass and other undergrowth. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Corry Clinton  Photo: Chick Keller | Jacob's Ladder, Leafy Polemonium, Towering Jacob's LadderPOFO (Polemonium foliosissimum)Family: Polemoniaceae (Phlox) Size: up to 6 in (15 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jul 02 - Aug 27 Flower: simple; blue/purple with white stamens and styles; bell-shaped and divided into 5 segments; clusters at the top Leaf: dicot; pinnately compound leaves at the base and at intervals further up; slightly hairy Fruit: small capsule with 3 to 5 seeds per cavity Status: native; uncommon Habitat: mixed conifer --- montane, subalpine, meadows The plant can often be found in colonies in mountain meadows. It has an overall open, airy look to it. Its genus name, foliosissum is Greek for “very leafy”. Like other species in the Polemonium genus, it is used as a food plant by the larvae of some butterfly species. In addition, the plant will exude a strong, skunk-like odor when touched. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Christina M. Selby | Pygmyflower Rockjasmine, Rock Jasmine, RockJasmine, Northern Fairy CandelabraANSE4 (Androsace septentrionalis)Family: Primulaceae (Primroses) Size: 6 - 10 in (15 - 25 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, perennial Blooms: Mar 19 - Sep 01 Flower: simple; white with yellow center; enclosed by a green or reddish calyx; 5 petals Leaf: dicot; simple leaves formed in a rosette Fruit: small, smooth, round capsule containing about 20 seeds Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- foothills, montane, subalpine, meadows, open woods Tiny plant often obscured by others. It turns shades of red shortly after finishing blooming. Can be found up to 11,000 ft (3,400 m). Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: faerthen | Graceful Buttercup, Plain ButtercupRAIN (Ranunculus inamoenus)Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercups) Size: up to 12 in (30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: May 09 - Aug 27 Flower: simple; yellow; 5 petals; yellow stamens surrounding by greenish pistils; 3 to 7 flowers on a stem Leaf: dicot; ovate with 3 lobes; potential notch on the outer pair Fruit: long cylindrical heads with multiple one-seeded bumps; short hairs; tiny beak Status: native; uncommon Habitat: mixed conifer --- montane, subalpine, woodlands, meadows Typical location: Water Canyon This is a small, inconspicuous, and dainty plant with a species name that means "not attractive" or "drab". The plant is only indirectly pollinated by bees. The bees leave a large amount of pollen on the petals which is then washed down onto the stigmas by dew and rain. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Christina M. Selby  Photo: male flower by Lonny Holmes  Photo: female flower by Gail |  Fendler's Meadow Rue , MeadowrueTHFE (Thalictrum fendleri)Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercups) Size: 36 - 72 in (91 - 183 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 11 - Aug 02 Flower: simple; separate male and female flowers; tassel-like stamens without petals in green to yellow (male), spiky flowers becoming pink as they mature (female); arching branched cluster of flowers Leaf: dicot; compound blades divided into segments of varying shapes, often with 3 lobes Fruit: female flowers have clusters of immature fruits that develop into hard, black stubs Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer --- foothills, montane, subalpine, woodlands, meadows Typical location: Canada Bonita Trail Fendler's Meadow Rue is very delicate and often overlooked. The stems are hairless and green to purple in color. The leaves unfold in swirls from a small globe. The male and female flowers of the plant are usually located on separate plants. The flowers are pollinated by wind. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo:  Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Ken -ichi Ueda | Fendler's Ceanothus, Buckbrush, Fendler's WhitethornCEFE (Ceanothus fendleri)Family: Rhamnaceae (Buckthorns) Size: up to 36 in (91 cm) Growth: shrub; perennial Blooms: May 19 - Jul 17 Flower: simple; white; form clusters at the end of the stems; all flowers bloom at once Leaf: dicot; narrow dark green leaves; alternate arrangement Fruit: three-celled capsules; pink and glossy; forming a rounded triangle Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- open coniferous forest Thorny shrub that can be either upright or low and sprawling. There are usually several plants found together in the same place. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: Josip Loncaric | Apache Plume, PonilFAPA (Fallugia paradoxa)Family: Rosaceae (Roses) Size: 24 - 72 in (61 - 183 cm) Growth: shrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 06 - Oct 31 Flower: simple; white flowers on the tips of very dense, intertangle branches; 5 petals Leaf: dicot; dark green with silver underneath Fruit: persistent, pink, feathery plumes said to resemble an Apache headdress Status: native; common Habitat: pinyon-juniper, ponderosa --- dry, rocky slopes, open woods, dry washes This multi-branched shrub is deciduous to semi-evergreen with a slender and upright habit. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Jerry Oldenettel  Photo: Matt Lavin | Mountain NinebarkPHMO4 (Physocarpus monogynus)Family: Rosaceae (Roses) Size: 72 - 84 in (183 - 213 cm) Growth: shrub; perennial Blooms: May 19 - Jul 17 Flower: simple; white tinged with pink; 5 petals arranged in a cup-like structure; overall appear in rounded clusters Leaf: dicot; simple, palmately lobed; alternate arrangement; turn red in the fall Fruit: pointed follicles arranged in upright hemispherical clusters; initially red and then turning reddish brown Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- rocky, dry hillsides Typical location: Rendija Canyon Plants in the genus Phtsocarpus are known as “ninebark” due to its distinguishing feature of ragged peeling bark revealing several layers and colors. Mountain Ninebark is found at elevations between 5,500 and 10,000 ft (1,700 and 3,000 m). The roots have been used by Native Americans in a pain-relieving poultice, while the twigs are food for wildlife. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo:  Photo: Don Loarie | Woolly CinquefoilPOHI6 (Potentilla hippiana)Family: Rosaceae (Roses) Size: 2 - 20 in (5 - 51 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jun 13 - Sep 10 Flower: simple; yellow; 5 non-overlapping petals departed by hairy sepals; borne in small clusters Leaf: dicot; green one top and silvery on bottom; toothed edge; hairy; folds up at edges; multiple leaflets with single terminal Fruit: many tiny greenish yellow capsules Status: native; common Habitat: mixed conifer, ponderosa --- montane, meadows, woodlands Typical location: Water Canyon Woolly Cinquefoil grows from about 4,300 ft (1,220 m) to as high as 12,000 ft (3,660 m). It grows quickly in disturbed sites and in warms areas. It has high seed production potential. The genus name of Pontentilla means “powerful” related to the plant’s medical uses for expediting childbirth and soothing burns and sores. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Chick Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: John Brew | Prairie Rose, Wild Rose, Arkansas RoseROAR3 (Rosa arkansana)Family: Rosaceae (Roses) Size: 6 - 40 in (15 - 102 cm) Growth: subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 06 - Jul 28 Flower: simple; pink and white; 5 petals; 1 to 4 flowers typically form at and of new shoots; buds deeper pink than open flowers Leaf: dicot; dark green, hairy, and with serrated edges; compound with 9 to 11 elliptical leaflets Fruit: round berry-like fruit known as a rose hip with light brown seeds inside; clusters of rose hips remain on the plant throughout fall and winter Status: native; common Habitat: ponderosa --- prairies, roadsides, ditches Typical location: Above Los Alamos Individual Prairie Rose flowers only last a few day but are fragrant. The flowers only provide pollen, no nectar, to visiting insects. Insects and some mammals feed on the foliage; while some birds like the prairie chicken and quail feed on the rose hips. The plant which is covered with thorns, generally dies back to near the base each year due to freezing. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Yvonne Keller  Photo: Craig Martin  Photo: tw61 | ThimbleberryRUPA (Rubus parviflorus)Family: Rosaceae (Roses) Size: up to 72 in (183 cm) Growth: subshrub; perennial Blooms: Jun 02 - Jul 17 Flower: simple; white with yellow center; large with 5 petals; terminal cluster with 3 to 7 flowers Leaf: dicot; large, lobed like a maple leaf; fuzzy on both sides; turn gold to brown in fall Fruit: red, hairy drupelet or aggregate fruit; looks similar to a raspberry Status: native; locally common Habitat: mixed conifer --- wooded hillsides, stream banks, canyons Typical location: Valle Canyon A thimbleberry is hollow, like a raspberry, so that one can fit it on the tip of a finger like a thimble, potential given the plant its common name. The fruit can be eaten fresh and makes a flavorful jelly but is rarely cultivated commercially as it is delicate. The young shoots of the plant can be eaten raw, and the leaves can be made into a tea for a wound treatment. Thimbleberry provides an important food source for ungulates, small mammals, and birds. The seeds are dispersed by animals. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: annagypsy  Photo: Craig Martin | Davis Mountain Mock Vervain, Desert Verbena, Wright's VerbenaGLWR (Glandularia wrightii)Family: Verbenaceae (Verbena) Size: 6 - 12 in (15 - 30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; annual, perennial Blooms: Mar 01 - Sep 30 Flower: simple; light to dark pink; narrow tube that opens abruptly into 5 notched lobes with 2 close together Leaf: dicot; deeply lobed leaves at opposite intervals Fruit: acorn-shaped seed Status: native; common Habitat: montane, mountain meadow --- semi-desert, foothills, woodlands Typical location: Red Dot Trail Plant has greenish-red stems that are covered in short hairs and square in cross-section. Stems are erect, though may lean at an angle when flowering. Flowers form round clusters. Info Photos Distribution |
 Photo: Becky Shankland  Photo: Alex Abair  Photo: Ellen Hildebrand | Bigbract Verbena, Prostrate Vervain, Carpet VerbenaVEBR (Verbena bracteata)Family: Verbenaceae (Verbenas) Size: up to 12 in (30 cm) Growth: forb/herb; perennial Blooms: Jul 01 - Oct 12 Flower: simple; blue to purple; small tubular flowers; flowers in spikes or on branching tips Leaf: dicot; oblanceolate; coarsely serrated; not lobed Fruit: oval and hairy; splits open when ripe Status: native; common Habitat: disturbed soil --- Typically seen on road edges. Typical location: White Rock A low, spreading plant with small flowers that are hard to see. Used as a dermatological aid by southwestern American indigenous peoples. Info Photos Distribution |
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