Purple Saxifrage

Purple saxifrage (Saxifraga oppositifolia) is a low, mat-forming perennial in the saxifrage family (Saxifragaceae). It is one of the earliest blooming alpine plants in Banff National Park; often flowering at the edge of retreating snow in May and June.

Identification: Low, sprawling mat (5–15 cm); opposite, scale-like leaves; solitary purple, five-petaled flowers (1–2 cm) at stem tips. “Saxifrage” means “rock-breaker”; roots grow into rock crevices. Flowers emerge as soon as snow melts.

Habitat: Alpine (above ~2,000 m); rocky tundra, fell fields, and exposed ridges. Often with moss campion, glacier lily, and alpine forget-me-not. Blooms May to July depending on elevation.

Ecology: Pioneer plant; colonises bare rock and thin soils. Pollinated by flies and early-season insects. Do not pick; alpine plants grow slowly and are easily damaged.