Watch Your Step! Rare Flower in Missoula Needs Your Protection

Did You Know There's a Flower Named After Missoula?

The Phlox missoulensis or Missoula Phlox is a "cushion plant" that can be found on Waterworks Ridge and the Bluebird Preserve here in Missoula and is considered endemic to Montana. These are both areas where a lot of people hike and walk their dogs.

In the past, the Missoula Parks and Recreation has posted warnings to watch where you're walking to protect the plant. The post below is from 2023:

See the post on Facebook here.

Missoula Phlox is currently blooming and will continue to bloom through June, according to the Montana Field Guide. The Guide also points out that the Missoula Phlox is a pollinator for nine different animal species. It's clearly important to the local ecosystem as it is a native plant, but it has also been listed as a 'Species of Concern.'

Read More: 3 Interesting Nature Walks You Can Take in Western Montana, Summer 2023

What Does "Species of Concern" Mean?

Here's the exact definition from the Montana Field Guide:

Species of Concern are native taxa that are at-risk due to declining population trends, threats to their habitats, restricted distribution, and/or other factors.  Designation as a Montana Species of Concern or Potential Species of Concern is based on the Montana Status Rank, and is not a statutory or regulatory classification.  Rather, these designations provide information that helps resource managers make proactive decisions regarding species conservation and data collection priorities.  -Fieldguidemt.gov

Does that mean the plant is endangered? No. The NatureServe Explorer website provides information about endangered species and has listed the Missoula Phlox listed as "Vulnerable." But given how unique the species is and its importance to the local ecosystem, it's worth heeding their warnings.

Related: Are You Growing One of Montana's 5 Regulated Plant Types? 

Please be on the lookout for the Missoula Phlox.