Flora

It’s survival of the fittest up here at 8500ft. Plants struggle for water and through a shortened growing season. They compete with the likes of the dreaded Russian Thistle Salsola tragus, aka the Noxious Exotic Invasive that is the Tumble Weed. While somewhat romantic in its name Tumbleweed (cue visions of cowboys on their way back to the homestead for a lovingly prepared hearty plate of stew and biscuits) what it really is, is a pain in the pants, and socks and shoes ….

But there’s some amazing plants here too! You may find some species that you’re accustomed to in other locales, but plants such as the sunflower (of any variety) are generally growing smaller here.

When viewing the pages, please realize that my goal for this year is to identify as many species as possible and if I have a particular observation, I’m writing that too. Throughout the course of the winter I will be adding more content to the pages.

Also, note that I have not found my portable hard drive since we moved. This houses absolutely years worth of pictures of plants and animals on the WHM. Yes. I am devastated. If you’re reading this. Please say a prayer that I find the portable hard drive. I’d appreciate it very much.

Trees and Bushes

Plants by Color

Plants by Family

USDA Plants Database. The definitive answer site.
Wildflower Search Site. I LOVE this site.