Alpine Forget-Me-Not

Alpine forget-me-not (Myosotis alpestris) is a low perennial in the borage family (Boraginaceae). Eritrichium aretioides (alpine comfrey) is a related cushion-forming species also found in the alpine zone. It carpets alpine tundra in Banff National Park; tiny blue flowers in dense mats above treeline.

Identification

Dense, low cushion or mat (2–10 cm); tiny, gray-green leaves; clusters of small, five-petaled blue flowers (3–6 mm) with yellow or white centres. Cushion form protects against wind and cold; flowers hug the surface.

Habitat

Alpine (above ~2,000 m); rocky tundra, fell fields, and exposed ridges. Often with moss campion, purple saxifrage, and glacier lily. Blooms June to August.

Viewing

Look for blue mats at Sunshine Meadows, Bow Summit, Parker Ridge, and high alpine trails. Peak bloom mid-July to mid-August. Do not step on cushions; they grow slowly and are easily damaged.