Yellow Mountain Heather

Yellow mountain heather (Phyllodoce glanduliflora) is a small, evergreen shrub found in the subalpine and alpine zones of the Canadian Rockies. It is a member of the heath family and is often found growing alongside other heather species.

Identification

Low-growing (4–12 inches high), with small, needle-like, evergreen leaves that are densely packed along the stems. The flowers are small, bell-shaped, and creamy yellow to greenish-yellow. The flower stalks and the flowers themselves are covered in fine, sticky hairs.

Habitat and Ecology

Yellow mountain heather is commonly found in moist, high-elevation meadows, on rocky slopes, and near the treeline. It often forms extensive mats that provide important ground cover in the alpine ecosystem. It is a long-lived species and is well-adapted to the short growing seasons of the high Rockies.

Viewing

Look for yellow mountain heather in the meadows of Larch Valley and near Sentinel Pass in July and August. It often grows in the same areas as Red Mountain Heather.