Parnassia asarifolia: Blue Ridge Parkway

For several years I have hoped to catch these Parnassia fresh and in their peak bloom and yesterday was the day. The five petals are beautifully marked and surround 5 fertile stamens that apparently unfold and extend once the blossom is fully open. 15 infertile staminodia add to the the beauty of the blossom. I was also fortunate to find these blossoms while clouds and fog enveloped the Parkway in a bright overcast.

 

 

 

 

Done