Southwest Colorado Wildflowers - Silene acaulis (Moss Campion)

Silene acaulis (Moss Campion)
Southwest Colorado Wildflowers

Silene acaulis (Moss Campion)
Caryophyllaceae (Pink Family)

Alpine. Tundra. Summer.
Madden Peak, June 23, 2004.

Moss Campion grows on alpine tundra in spreading tufts of moss-like green. Barely above the tight cushion of tiny leaves, an array of five-petaled pink/lavender flowers arises and, with normal precipitation, often completely covers the green cushion. Silene acaulis is commonly found near white Alpine Phlox and various white Chickweeds, all very tiny plants with masses of very tiny flowers, very tiny leaves, and very pleasant fragrances.

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