Asarum Caudatum, Wild Ginger

Day 220: Among all of Mount Rainier's wildflowers, Wild Ginger (Asarum caudatum, aka Long-Tailed Ginger) has one of the oddest and most elusive blossoms of all. Borne close to the ground, the three petals with their long, thready tails conceal themselves beneath heart-shaped leaves as if sheltering from a storm. From tip to tip, the flower may span four inches, but it is not easy to spot. It is better to learn to recognize the leaf and hairy stem, and to keep a record of where you have observed the plant so you can return when you think it will be in bloom. Flowering generally occurs in early June, but warm temperatures have brought them out early. A moisture lover, you'll find this exotically beautiful plant along the banks of mountain springs. This photo was taken in the Longmire area.

Long-Tailed Ginger, Asarum Caudatum

Day 243: It's easy to see how Long-Tailed Ginger got its common name. Also known simply as Wild Ginger, Asarum caudatum's flower is one of the most distinctive to be found in Mount Rainier National Park, but it is also one of the most elusive, evading wildflower enthusiasts' cameras by hiding beneath lightly hairy, heart-shaped leaves. It grows throughout the forested zones, preferring moist banks and partial shade. The leaves and stems give off an aroma of ginger when broken, but please content yourself with visual observation of this most unusual flower. Look for the blossoms from mid-May to late June (sometimes into July).