Heart-Leaved Arnica

Heart-leaved arnica (Arnica cordifolia) is a yellow-flowered perennial in the aster family (Asteraceae). It carpets subalpine forest floors and meadows in Banff National Park; bright yellow, daisy-like flowers in summer.

Identification: Low perennial (15–50 cm); heart-shaped, opposite basal leaves (hence the name); stem leaves smaller, fewer; solitary yellow, daisy-like flower heads (5–8 cm) at stem tips. Petal-like ray flowers surround a central disk.

Habitat: Subalpine; moist forest understory, meadows, and open slopes. Often with bunchberry, twinflower, and Labrador tea. Blooms June to August.

Ecology: Medicinal; arnica is used externally for bruises and inflammation (toxic if ingested). Flowers attract pollinators. Do not pick or consume; toxic compounds can cause skin irritation and internal poisoning.