Synthyris schizantha

Fringe-petal Kitten-tail. This is an uncommon native found in small areas of the Olympic Mts and in Oregon's Clatsop County. An early spring treat for the collector, this has rounded leaves with toothed margins and impressed veins that emerge a light olive-copper color. Small lilac flowers cluster on short stems and the petal margins are incised. A rare offering. Some treatments place this in the genus Veronica but we prefer Synthyris. Light shade or morning sun is good.