#monkeyflower

Formerly Mimulus guttatus, the original binomial given to it in 1813 by Augustin Pyramus de Candolle. It's also had 32 synonyms over the years, but in 2012 it was moved to the genus Erythranthe by American botanist Guy L. Nesom. Erythranthe refers to the red flowers of some species in the genus, and guttatus to the spots in the throat of this one.

Native to streambanks and seeps in western North America, tolerating salt spray, toxic mine tailings, hydrothermal fields, and desert conditions, as long as the ground is damp. Very common in New Zealand near water bodies, as here on the bank of the Avon. An introduced species in Europe.

As well as being grown as an ornamental, the leaves are edible, both raw and cooked, and sometimes added to salads.

The sun is setting on #RainierWildflowers for the season, but fall color is on its way. Some late-blooming flowers like pearly everlasting, Cascade asters, and fireweed can be found in the Paradise area, while very few remain at Sunrise. However, Summerland and Berkeley Park on the east side of the park still have some blooms, like Lewis’ monkeyflower.

As always, remember to please stay on trail! It doesn’t take many steps to trample the wildflowers you are coming to see. Many trails offer great opportunities for that perfect mountain + wildflower photo. Where are you finding wildflowers?

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