Leafy mitrewort (Mitella Caulescens) is a very easy wildflower to overlook. Small and green, it disappears against the backdrop of other spring plants growing in the low elevation forests of Mount Rainier. However, once you know to look for it, its unique petals, tipped with feathery, antenna-like lobes, are unmistakable. Flowers grow along a short stalk, 6-12 in. tall, and bloom from the top down as the season progresses. It has maple-shaped leaves and is the only mitrewort species with a few leaves along the stem.
In addition to leafy mitrewort, other forest wildflowers are starting to bloom including Cascade Oregon-grape, kinnikinnick, and salmonberry. Subalpine meadows are still covered in snow. What wildflowers are you observing in the park?
For updates on what’s blooming where visit https://go.nps.gov/RainierWildflower
Unfamiliar with Mount Rainier’s wildflower species? Check out the wildflower guide at https://go.nps.gov/RainierWildflowerGuide
NPS Photo of leafy mitrewort blooming along the Trail of the Shadows in Longmire, 5/30/24.
