Montane, subalpine, alpine. Meadows, woodlands, scree. Summer.
Sharkstooth Trail, June 30, 2000.

Angelica grayi grows so scattered that even though its thick stalk stands out against many of the smaller plants in its habitats, it is often overlooked.  Once it is noticed, it is often mistaken for a dwarf, squat form of Loveroot (to which it is related).  It comes into its own with its huge, sparkling, starburst flower.  Above timberline Angelica grayi grows just 6 inches tall but in rich meadows and Aspen woods it reaches 4 feet. Several other species of Angelica also grow in the San Juans and other Four Corners mountains.

"Angelica", Latin for "angelic," refers to the supposed medicinal properties of the plant.  "Grayi" is for Asa Gray, 1810-1888, the most important taxonomist of his day and the originator of the Harvard Herbarium.  (More biographical information.)

Montane, subalpine, alpine. Meadows, woodlands, scree. Summer.
Ophir Pass Road, July 20, 2006.

Montane, subalpine, alpine. Meadows, woodlands, scree. Summer.
Sharkstooth Trail, July 14, 2004.

Montane. Wet meadows and Aspen groves, streamsides. Summer.
Groundhog Meadow Trail, July 31, 2004.

Although Angelica pinnata is found throughout the western San Juan and nearby mountains, it is never a common plant.  It is very slim and lanky, likes moist areas, and is thus often difficult to find among other lush herbage.  The swollen maroon sheaths at the base of the flower stalks attracts attention, but the very widely spreading flower head is also quite noticeable and delicately lovely.

"Pinnata" is for the pinnate leaves: see the bottom middle of the photograph.

Montane. Wet meadows and Aspen groves, streamsides. Summer.
Groundhog Meadow Trail, July 31, 2004.