Alpine Forget-Me-Not

Alpine forget-me-not (Myosotis alpestris) is a low perennial in the borage family (Boraginaceae). Eritrichium aretioides (alpine comfrey) is a related cushion-forming species also found in the alpine zone. It carpets alpine tundra in Banff National Park; tiny blue flowers in dense mats above treeline.

Identification: Dense, low cushion or mat (2–10 cm); tiny, gray-green leaves; clusters of small, five-petaled blue flowers (3–6 mm) with yellow or white centres. Cushion form protects against wind and cold; flowers hug the surface.

Habitat: Alpine (above ~2,000 m); rocky tundra, fell fields, and exposed ridges. Often with moss campion, purple saxifrage, and glacier lily. Blooms June to August.

Viewing: Look for blue mats at Sunshine Meadows, Bow Summit, Parker Ridge, and high alpine trails. Peak bloom mid-July to mid-August. Do not step on cushions; they grow slowly and are easily damaged.