Aruncus dioicus

Goat's Beard

Goat's Beard
aka Sylvan Goatsbeard. An imposing plant, 5 – 7′ (2m), which possesses a unique delicacy in its whispy cloud of creamy flowers. The flowers are tiny (1/4″) and are crowded onto long plumes at the end of the branches. The large leaves (up to 20″) are divided into several graceful, pointed (long-acuminate) leaflets. Found hidden in the brush as well as in clearings, avalanche tracks, roadsides and streambanks up to 5,000′ elevation.

Family:

Rosaceae - ROSE FAMILY

Genus:

Aruncus for Greek aryngos meaning 'goat's beard'

Species:

dioicus means 'dioecious', male and female flowers on separate plants
Photo location: From several locations including Reflection Lakes, Owyhigh Lakes trail (east), Spray Park trail, Glacier View Wilderness and along the Stevens Canyon Road in vicinity of Bench/Snow Lakes trailhead.