Genus: Potentilla from Latin potens 'powerful' (ref. potent medicinal qualities)
Species: fruticosa means 'shrubby'
aka Pentaphylloides floribunda (ref. Biek). This handsome low rounded bush grows 1' - 4' (30 - 120 cm) high and bears showy bright yellow flowers. The flowers are about 1" across and have five nearly round overlapping petals which radiate outward from a mass of yellow stamens. The discovery of such a delicate flower provides a pleasant surprise on what appears to be one tough bush. Usually found in moist areas on rocky slopes and flats between 5,000' to 8,000' elevation. (ref. Blackwell, Strickler)
Trail Notes:
Trail/Hike: Mt. Fremont
Date: August 15, 2007
Location: along Mt. Fremont trail immediately west of Frozen Lake
