The Wild Flora of Kananaskis Country

Every child is born a naturalist. His eyes are, by nature, open to the glories
of the stars, the beauty of the flowers, and the mystery of life. -- R. Search

Wildflowers are of interest to everyone. Their color, variety, and beauty make for delightful eye candy to all who see them. Understanding the  relationships between flora and animals is both fascinating and complex, in how each one provides for  the other. Each trail traveled through Kananaskis differs in display, depending upon terrain,  altitude and availability of water. For the avid photographer spotting the different varieties, it is both exciting and fulfilling as many boast elaborate photo albums with their  successful finds.

Here are only some of the flowers within the park.

Wild rose
Rosa acicularis
Alberta's official flower
Late May - Early August

Wild strawberry
Fragaria virginiana (Rose)
Early May - Late July

Blue clematis
Clematis occidentalis (buttercup)
Late May - June

Bunchberry
Cornus canadensis
Early June - Late July

Arnica
Arnica
Late May - August

Yellow columbine
Aquilegia flavescens
June - Early August

Broad-leaved willow-herb
Epilobium latifolium
Mid May - Early July

Canadian Buffaloberry
Oleaster (Favorite of the Bear)
Mid July - Late August