Saxifragaceae

Mitella pentandra

Alpine Mitrewort

Tuft of maple-like leaves, erect stems. Leaves about 1/2–3 in. wide, with 5–9 lobes, sharp teeth. Flower spike 1-sided, blooming from bottom to top. Flowers in shallow saucer, 5 green petals, cut into 5 or more opposite linear lobes, stamens opposite petals. Grows in moist woods, subalpine meadows, bogs, along streams, at mid to high elevations. All other mitellas have stamens and petals alternating. Mitella caulescens is distinguished by a tuft of maple-shaped leaves, a few small stem leaves, and flowers that start blooming at the top of the stem.

• Rarity: Locally Common
• Flowering Time: All Summer
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Height: 8--16 inches
• Habitat: Subalpine, Meadow, Bog/Fen/Wetland, West-Side Forest, Moist Riverbanks
• Found In: Wallowas, Steens, Crater Lake Np, Olympic Np, Mt. Rainier Np, N Cascades Np
• Native: Yes