Bronzebells

Bronzebells, Stenanthium occidentale, sometimes called Western Featherbells, is a native wildflower that grows in moist, wooded areas. Stems are 30-50 cm tall and the flowers are purple green to brownish red, nodding, cup-shaped, 10-15 mm long. Three sepals, three petals, and bracts that are lance-shaped. Flowers June-July. Saw these ones growing on Plateau Mountain, way south of the city on 31st July. As often happens, this is a macro shot - these flowers really are just tiny. So pretty, I always think.

Got home about half an hour ago after a long day east of the city, in the amazing Alberta Badlands area. Six of us climbed down into Horseshoe Canyon to do another botanizing day of the hillsides and canyon floor. This area is about an hour and forty-five minutes' drive from the city. A really pleasant day, warming up later on. I prefer the cooler temperatures, though, especially when walking/hiking. The smoke haze from BC wasn't really noticeable down in the canyon, but on the drive from and back to the city, visibility was greatly reduced. Thanks so much, Stephen, for driving today - I appreciate it so much. And now, as usual, I feel dead beat and oh, so tired, LOL.