Besseya alpina, June 18, 2023
Geissler, 13,000’, July 21, 2023
Common & scientific name
Alpine besseya or alpine kittentails, Besseya alpina
Family
Plantain, Plantaginaceae
Location
Lower Twining, 12,900’
Fun, weird, helpful, or little known fact
This gem of an alpine flower is found only in the high mountains of the Four Corners states, and most abundantly in Colorado. A swift glance might mistake it for Silky phacelia, Phacelia sericea, but its leaves are dark green and thick, not feathery, and it stands just a couple of inches tall. It is usually found nestled within rock gardens, and is always a worthy find.
June 23, Mt. Champion, 13,000’