SafePlants

Alpine Collomia (Collomia debilis)

Alpine Collomia, also known as Alpine Mountain-trumpet, is a charming dwarf alpine plant belonging to the Phlox family (Polemoniaceae).

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is mat-forming, meaning it spreads along the ground, which may make it accessible to pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Collomia debilis (S. Watson) Greene
• Common Names: Alpine Collomia, Alpine Mountain-trumpet, Mountain Trumpet
• Family: Polemoniaceae (Phlox Family)
• Kingdom: Plantae (Plants)
• Synonyms:
  • Collomia debilis var. debilis
  • Collomia debilis var. integra
  • Collomia debilis var. ipomoea
  • Collomia debilis var. trifida
  • Collomia debilis var. camporum
  • Collomiastrum debile
  • Gilia larsenii
  • Collomia debilis var. larsenii

Distribution and Habitat

• Alpine Collomia is found in alpine and subalpine regions.
• It is native to the USA, specifically ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WA, and WY.
• It often grows in talus slopes (slopes formed by rock debris).

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a perennial plant characterized by sprawling stems from a deep-seated taproot and crown.
• It is tufted and mat-forming, typically reaching a height of 5-10cm.
• Stems and leaves can be hairless or coated with fine hairs, sometimes including glands.
• Leaves are lanceolate to ovate, and can be either entirely whole or have three to five lobes.
• Flowers are pink to violet and up to 1.5cm long.

Ecology

• Alpine Collomia is sometimes found in association with Mountain hemlock (Tsuga mertensiana) and Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii).

Quirky Facts

• In spring, Alpine Collomia can assume a red-pink coloring.
• It is an evergreen plant, retaining its leaves throughout the year.

Further Information

• Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)
• Encyclopedia of Life
• Discover Life
• Biology.burke.washington.edu herbarium