Montana is a state that is well-known for its natural beauty, and one of the best ways to experience this beauty is by taking a hike or a walk through the wilderness. One of the most striking sights you can see in Montana during the spring and summer months are the Montana wildflowers that bloom throughout the state. In this article, we will explore some of the first Montana wildflowers that bloom each year, and what makes them so special.
- Pasqueflower – Pulsatilla patens One of the first Montana wildflowers to bloom each year is the Pasqueflower. This plant is also known as the Prairie Crocus, and it is often one of the first signs of spring in Montana. It has a stunning lavender-pink color and can be found in dry grasslands and sagebrush areas. The Pasqueflower is also a hardy plant, and it can withstand the cool spring weather that is common in Montana. It is a beautiful flower to see on a springtime hike.
- Glacier Lily – Erythronium grandiflorum Another early bloomer in Montana is the Glacier Lily. This plant is also known as the Dogtooth Violet, and it is a striking yellow color. The Glacier Lily can be found in moist meadows, and it is often one of the first wildflowers to bloom in the spring. The Glacier Lily is a beautiful addition to any garden, and it can also be used in bouquets and arrangements. It is a symbol of springtime in Montana, and it is often associated with the melting of snow in the high mountains.
- Shooting Star – Dodecatheon pulchellum The Shooting Star is a unique wildflower that can be found in Montana’s moist meadows and along stream banks. It blooms in late spring, typically in May or June, and it comes in a range of colors, including pink, purple, and white. The Shooting Star is easily recognizable by its petals that curve back and a central tube that protrudes forward. It is a stunning flower that is often used in bouquets and arrangements by Montana florists.
- Yellow Bell – Fritillaria pudica The Yellow Bell is a beautiful Montana Wildflower that can be found in Montana’s foothills and prairies. It blooms in early spring, often in March or April, and it has bell-shaped flowers that hang from a single stem. The Yellow Bell is a hardy plant, and it can withstand the cool spring weather that is common in Montana. It is a striking flower that is often used in bouquets and arrangements, and it is also a popular choice for gardens.
- Mountain lupine- Lupinus argenteus, is a species of lupine native to North America, found throughout the western United States and western Canada. It is a perennial plant that typically grows up to 3 feet tall and has a slender stem with large, showy spikes of flowers.
In conclusion, Montana is home to some of the most beautiful wildflowers in the world. From the Pasqueflower to the Glacier Lily’s, each of these native Montana wildflowers has a unique beauty and charm that is sure to enhance any setting. If you’re interested in incorporating Native Montana wildflowers into your home decor or special event, think again! It’s best to leave the wildflowers in the fields so other can enjoy them and they are supported to come back year after year.
If you are interested in learning more about Montana Wildflowers, check out Montana Native Plant Society’s Spring and Summer hiking line up.
