Synthyris alpina
(Alpine Kittentails)
Synthyris alpina, Crystal Lakes, Summit Co. 1158
| Scientific Name | Synthyris alpina (Besseya alpina, Veronica besseya) | USDA PLANTS Symbol | BEAL |
| Common Name | Alpine Kittentails | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 522283 |
| Family | Plantaginaceae (Plantain) formerly Scrophulariaceae | SW Colorado Wildflowers Ref. |
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| Description |
Life zones and habitat: Montane to alpine (9500 to 14200 ft); rocky ridges, tundra, scree and talus slopes.
Plant: Perennial with stout, erect stem up to 6 inches tall. Leaves: Mostly basal 2 inches long, oblong-to-heart-shaped, thick and woolly. Inflorescence: Very small purple/reddish flowers in a terminal spike. Early season bloomer. Bloom Period: June to August. References: SW Colorado Wildflowers, "Guide to Colorado Wildflowers" by G.K. Guennel and "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield. Note: Photo below was taken in early July above 12,000 ft. I had mis-identified the photo and was thankfully corrected by Jane Hendrix of Breckenridge. Click here for a photo of a plant in bloom. |
BONAP Distribution Map Map Color Key |
Colorado Status: Native |
© Tom Lebsack 2025
Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains
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