The form of Eriogonum umbellatum that occurs in Alberta is var. subalpinum, which differs from var. umbellatum, the variety that occurs in closest geographic proximity, most prominently by its flower colour - pale yellow or greenish white, tinged with rose as it dries, as opposed to the bright yellow of the latter.
http://linnet.geog.ubc.ca/Atlas/Atlas.aspx?sciname=Eriogonum%20umbellatu...
http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=250060559
Here are some photos of it from montane elevations in northern Banff N. P., Alberta, blooming in mid-August in the aftermath of a high snowfall winter:
The compound umbel, subtended by leafy bracts that are often reflexed, is distinctive.
Comments
Re: Eriogonum umbellatum var. subalpinum
Lori
Very nice variety. Thank you for showing such nice photos of it.
I like the pale creamy yellow flowers, they would glow on an overcast day.
Any chance of seeing seed in the exchanges in the near future? ;)
I for one would snatch up a few packets.
Re: Eriogonum umbellatum var. subalpinum
You are not the sole one, John ;D
For those of you who want to grow an Eriogonum or two and your climate is generally not conducive, try this one. It grows beautifully here in Massachusetts, without any special accommodations. Very nice flowers as well!!