Native Plants of the Pacific Northwest: July

Pacific Northwest Native June Flowers Blue Houndstongue Bluehead Gilia Death Camas False Rue Anemone Grand Collomia Mule's Ears Oregon Sunshine Selfheal Twinflower White Brodiaea

July marks the transition between lowland and highland wildflower season in the Pacific Northwest.

Depending on the year's snowfall and temperature trends, native flowering plants traditionally found in the valleys, are making their curtin call, setting the stage for their alpine meadow counterparts.

Mountain plants start showing their summer colors early in the month. In some special areas, they can put on a real show.

Most of the flowers listed in the box represent the less showy July species, those easily found during any hike. The top picture, for example, provides a close-up view of a penstemon flower, one of the most common flowers seen in any mountain location.

The Willamette False Rue Anemone represents the general exception to the rule. It is not a common plant. In many ways, the Death Camas is also exceptional. A member of the popular lily family, its name tells the story of its toxicity.

Please click on a link to learn more about the individual species.

© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels