Oxyria digyna

Mountain Sorrel

Mountain Sorrel
aka Rumex digynus, Alpine Sorrel. The distinctive blue-green, kidney-shaped leaves are edible but it’s worth noting that ‘Sorrel’ is French for ‘surelle’ or ‘sour’. Growing to 1′ (30 cm) tall the leafless stems terminate with a spike of scaly flowers which range from greenish-white, reddish-brown, to a brillant red in full bloom. Usually found in more moist rocky places, talus slopes, between 6,000′ to 8,500′ elevation (also found at lower elevations, e.g. alongside streambanks).

Family:

Polygonaceae - BUCKWHEAT FAMILY

Genus:

Oxyria from Greek oxys 'sour' in reference to acidity of the edible leave

Species:

digyna means 'two carpels' or double styles on the ovary
Photo location: Rocky areas along Mt. Fremont, First Burroughs Mtn. trails and at Crystal Mtn. resort on ridge bordering MRNP.