Wild Flowers 2009 - July Photo

Sky Pilot & Alpine Avens

Alpine tundra plants survive sand-wiched in rock crevices with their roots attached to soil bits. A small funnel-shaped purple flower, sky pilot prefers elevations above 9,000 feet. Its leaf, when crushed, has a skunk-like scent. On ridges above 10,000 feet, alpine avens are found growing in dense clumps with 1-4 little yellow flowers on a stem.