Ottertail pass saxifrage (Micranthes tenuis, N.L.Britton & al. (eds.), N. Amer. Fl. 22: 136 (1905))

Family: Saxifragaceae

Author: (Wahlenb.) Small

Bibliography: N.L.Britton & al. (eds.), N. Amer. Fl. 22: 136 (1905)

Year: 1905

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Micranthes

Vegetable: False

Observations: Subarctic

Description

The Ottertail pass saxifrage, scientifically known as Micranthes tenuis, is a charming and resilient species belonging to the Saxifragaceae family. Originally described by the renowned botanist Wahlenberg and later classified by Small, this plant graces the subarctic regions with its presence.

Micranthes tenuis thrives in harsh, cold environments where it showcases its remarkable adaptability. The plant typically grows in rocky crevices and moist, well-drained soils where few other species can survive, making it a vital part of the subarctic ecosystem. The saxifrage’s delicate appearance is a testament to nature’s ability to combine beauty with resilience.

This species is characterized by its small, delicate flowers and finely textured leaves, which are often seen adorning mountainous terrains and rocky ledges. The flowers, usually white or pale in color, bloom during the short summer season, providing a fleeting yet stunning display against the rugged landscapes.

As a member of the Saxifragaceae family, Micranthes tenuis shares many traits with its relatives, including its capacity to withstand extreme cold and its preference for high-altitude environments. Its presence is not just a visual delight but also an indicator of the health of its native habitats, as it often grows in areas undisturbed by human activity.

The first formal description of Micranthes tenuis can be found in the “North American Flora” vol. 22, page 136, published in 1905 by N.L. Britton and colleagues. This seminal work laid the foundation for understanding the diverse flora of North America, with the Ottertail pass saxifrage being one of the many treasures documented in this comprehensive botanical survey.

In summary, the Ottertail pass saxifrage is a subarctic gem, embodying the fragile yet enduring nature of life in some of the planet’s most challenging climates. Its study and preservation help scientists and nature enthusiasts alike appreciate the intricate balance of ecosystems and the delicate beauty that flowers in the coolest corners of our world.

Common Names

En: Ottertail Pass saxifrage
Eng: ottertail pass saxifrage, slender saxifrage
Sme: jassanarti
Fra: saxifrage ténue
Swe: spädbräcka
: Ottertail pass saxifrage

Synonyms

• Saxifraga sochondensis (Maximova)
• Saxifraga pauciflora (Sternb.)
• Saxifraga nivalis subsp. tenuis ((Wahlenb.) Braun-Blanq.)
• Saxifraga nivalis var. tenuior (Wahlenb.)
• Saxifraga nivalis var. tenuis (Wahlenb.)
• Saxifraga tenuis ((Wahlenb.) Harry Sm.)
• Micranthes gaspensis ((Fernald) Small)

Distribution

• Alaska (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• Finland (native)
• Føroyar (native)
• Greenland (native)
• Iceland (native)
• Kamchatka (native)
• Labrador (native)
• Magadan (native)
• North European Russi (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Norway (native)
• Nunavut (native)
• Québec (native)
• Svalbard (native)
• Sweden (native)
• Yakutskiya (native)
• Yukon (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Aug 4, 2015 by Andrzej Pasierbinski (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Aug 4, 2015 by Andrzej Pasierbinski (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:160082-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Saxifraga tenuis (Wahlenb.) Harry Sm. ex Lindm.)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3032723)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5567575)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth