Leptarrhena pyrolifolia

Leatherleaf Saxifrage

Leatherleaf Saxifrage
aka Pear Leaf, Fireleaf Leptarrhena. The oval to oblong pear-shaped leaves, up to 6″ (15 cm) long, form a basal rosette. They are glossy-green above and silvery-green underneath. Stems, which turn reddish, rise to 16″ (40 cm) and support a rounded cluster of small flowers each with ten stamens. They seem small considering the plant’s imposing leaves. The heads become quite showy when in fruit with the bright red seed-pods. Usually found in or near wet areas between 4,000′ to 6,500′ elevation.

Family:

Saxifragaceae - SAXIFRAGE FAMILY

Genus:

Leptarrhena from Greek leptos 'slender' and arrhen 'male'

Species:

pyrolifolia means 'leathery and bright green'
Photo location: From two loctions along the WLT to Summerland: crossing of Fryingpan Creek and on the switchback section before reaching the camp.