Genus: Mertensia after German botanist Franz Karl Mertens (1764-1831)
Species: paniculata or 'paniculate' meaning branched flower groups
aka Tall Lungwort. May reach as as high as five feet but most common around 3 ft. (1 m) tall. There is an interesting contrast between the blue bell-shaped flowers, 1/2 - 3/4", and the reddish purple buds as they hang together in bundles. The leaves are lance- to egg-shaped and the upper leaves are usually not stalked, growing directly out from the stem. Prefers moister locations. Found near streambanks, seeps, talus slopes, and usually in clearings between 2,500' to 6,500' elevation. (ref. Biek, Blackwell)
Trail Notes:
Trail/Hike: WLT/ Ipsut Creek/Ipsut Pass
Date: June 18, 2005
Location: approx. 0.25 mi. east of Ipsut Pass(photo)
