Mountain Flower Names

Mountain flowers are generally well adapted to soils that are lower in organic material and prefer the cooler temperatures of higher elevations. Perennials usually do best because they are easier to establish. Late-blooming annuals typically do not have a chance to bloom before the first frost. Plants that are hardy in the lower-number hardiness zones thrive well in mountain communities.

Cliff larkspur, or delphinium, is a flowering perennial that can be found growing low to the ground in mountain climates. It is a member of the buttercup family and has blue and white blooms. This flower is considered toxic to both animals and people, so it is not the best choice for homes with children and pets. It prefers full sun and moist soil, but it can tolerate drought conditions.

Yarrow is a flowering perennial that is native to the Northern Hemisphere and can take as long as two years to become fully established. The scientific name is Achillea millefolium, and it is commonly referred to as old man's pepper. The flower prefers full sun and can thrive in dry soil. It is easy to grow and requires little care. The flowers are white, and they bloom from May to September. It grows 1-to-3 feet tall and is commonly found on steep slopes and hillsides.

Monkshood, or aconitum, is also known as wolfsbane or bluerocket. It likes full sun and moist, well-drained soil in the mountain ranges of the Northern Hemisphere. It grows 1.5-to-3 feet tall and has violet-blue blooms. Monkshood is toxic to both animals and people and can cause heart attack and respiratory failure.

Columbine is a perennial wildflower that grows 1-to-3 feet tall and has crimson-colored flowers that are 1.5 inches long. The scientific name is Aquilegia canadensis, and it is a member of the buttercup family. The flowers can also be shades of blue and pink. The flower prefers moist-to-dry soil and partial sun to light shade. It is attractive to hummingbirds and bumblebees.