top of page
.png)
Plants of Yellowstone
Learn about the amazing plants of Yellowstone. Explore plants like Sagebrush, and Aspen, click below to start!
Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata)
Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) is a dominant shrub in the drier areas of Yellowstone, particularly in the park's grasslands and sagebrush steppes. This hardy plant is known for its aromatic leaves and its ability to thrive in poor soils. Sagebrush provides essential habitat and food for a variety of wildlife, including pronghorn, sage grouse, and small mammals.
Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta)
The lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) is one of the most common trees in Yellowstone, covering large areas of the park. These pines are well adapted to the park’s environment, often regenerating after forest fires, which help to open their cones and release seeds. Lodgepole pines provide important habitat and food sources for many animals and insects.
Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides)
The quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) is easily recognizable by its white bark and leaves that tremble in the wind. Aspens form groves through a root system that allows new trees to sprout, making them one of the largest living organisms by biomass. These trees are crucial for supporting a variety of wildlife, offering food and shelter to animals like elk, beavers, and birds.
Yellowstone Sand Verbena (Abronia ammophila)
The Yellowstone sand verbena (Abronia ammophila) is a rare flowering plant found only in Yellowstone National Park. It thrives in the sandy soils along the shores of Yellowstone Lake, producing clusters of pink flowers. This plant is unique to the park and has adapted to the cold, harsh conditions of its habitat.
Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii)
The Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) is a large coniferous tree that is common in Yellowstone's forests. Known for its thick bark and tall stature, this tree provides critical habitat for wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects. Douglas firs are also important for the park's ecosystem, contributing to soil stability and forest health.
Wildflowers (Various species)
Yellowstone is home to a diverse array of wildflowers, with species such as the arrowleaf balsamroot (Balsamorhiza sagittata), Indian paintbrush (Castilleja spp.), and lupine (Lupinus spp.). These colorful flowers bloom throughout the spring and summer, creating stunning displays of color across the park. Wildflowers are vital for pollinators like bees and butterflies and contribute to the overall biodiversity of the park's ecosystems.
Return to Page
bottom of page