Wildflower of the valley
Grass-of-Parnassus-leaved Saxifrage
Saxifraga parnassifolia
- How easy to find
- Easy to see — you will see it easily on the trail
- Flower size
- Small
- Family
- Saxifragaceae (Saxifrage family)
- Type
- Herb
- Height
- 10–30 cm
- Flower colour
- yellow
- Flowering
- August to October
About Grass-of-Parnassus-leaved Saxifrage
Saxifraga parnassifolia is an annual herb of 10 - 30 cm height. Basal leaves are broadly ovate and obtuse at apex. Stem leaves are smaller than basal ones. Flowers bright yellow in color. The specific name parnassifolia refers to leaves similar to that of Parnassia plant.
Where to find it
- Along the trail from Govindghat to Ghangaria
- Near the entrance of the valley
- In the middle of the valley
- In the deeper parts of the valley
- Around Hemkund Sahib
Habitat
Grassy mountain slope, rock crevices, shrubberies and alpine meadows.
What the name means
Saxifraga: Latin saxum + frangere ("stone-breaker"); parnassifolia means "with leaves like Parnassia (grass-of-Parnassus)".
Don't confuse it with
Saxifraga brunonis (sno 57) is smaller and creeping; S. cernua nods and produces bulbils.
More photos
Saxifraga Parnassifolia contributes greatly to biodiversity in the Valley of Flowers. It attracts pollinators and supports microhabitats… 
The Saxifraga Parnassifolia, with its delicately veined petals and rich texture, flourishes gracefully in the alpine expanse of the Valley… 
Softly illuminated by Himalayan sunlight, Saxifraga Parnassifolia unfurls its petals with poise. The flower's understated elegance offers a… 
This close-up of Saxifraga Parnassifolia reveals its intricate floral anatomy and rich botanical character. The species is part of a larger… 
In this vibrant capture, Saxifraga Parnassifolia displays a saturated tone that contrasts vividly with the surrounding alpine flora. It is… 
Resilient and graceful, Saxifraga Parnassifolia blooms in harmony with other mountain wildflowers. Its compact growth and fleshy leaves… 
Captured here amidst gentle morning mist, Saxifraga Parnassifolia showcases its pristine beauty. The flower symbolizes endurance and…
