• A single bloom of White Mountain Avens (Dryas octopetala) stands out among its mat of dark green, crinkled leaves. Its delicate white petals surround a bright yellow center, adding a touch of elegance to the alpine forest floor, where it thrives among pine cones and mossy ground cover.
  • A lush carpet of White Mountain Avens (Dryas octopetala), with several creamy-white flowers scattered among its deeply lobed, leathery green leaves. This ancient species, a relic from the Ice Age, continues to flourish in harsh alpine conditions, just as it did when it lent its name to the Younger Dryas period.
  • A sprawling patch of White Mountain Avens (Dryas octopetala) in full bloom, its daisy-like flowers swaying gently among grasses and other alpine flora. This hardy, low-growing perennial has stood the test of time, proving that even the smallest plants can leave a lasting mark on history.
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Wild About Flowers

Dryas octopetala - White Mountain Avens

Dryas octopetala - White Mountain Avens

$8.00 CAD
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White Mountain Avens is a hardy, mat-forming perennial with leathery, evergreen leaves and delicate white, buttercup-like flowers that bloom from late spring into summer. As one of the first plants to flower after snowmelt, it provides valuable early-season nectar for native bees, butterflies, and hoverflies. Its low-growing, spreading habit forms a dense carpet that offers excellent ground cover, erosion control, and visual appeal.

Thriving in well-drained, rocky or gravelly soils, this species is well adapted to harsh alpine and tundra environments. It is ideal for rock gardens, xeriscapes, and alpine plantings where it tolerates wind, drought, and nutrient-poor soils. Found in alpine meadows, tundra, and rocky outcrops, it plays an important ecological role in stabilizing fragile soils. Its tough, evergreen foliage is unpalatable to deer, making it a dependable choice in exposed, high-altitude environments.

Ecological Note: White Mountain Avens is a relict species with deep ties to the Younger Dryas, a period of abrupt climate cooling around 12,900 years ago. Fossil pollen records show it as a dominant species in northern landscapes during that time, highlighting its resilience in cold, dry conditions.

Bloom Times & Plant Sizes

Important Information - The "Bloom Period" is an indicator of the time period within which the wildflowers will bloom and does not describe the time period that a single plant will bloom.  The "Sizes" listed are intended to be a general guideline to consult during plant selection. - Plant growth and bloom times will vary depending on geographical location & individual site conditions.

Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer

The Edible & Medicinal information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be acted on without thorough research and professional guidance. We are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of or misidentification of plants.

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Plant Specifics

Seeds Per Pack

Seed packs are currently unavailable.

Light Conditions

  • Sun
  • Part Shade

Soil Conditions

  • Well Drained
  • Sandy
  • Gravelly
  • Dry

Height

  • Under 6"

Width

  • Mat Forming

Bloom Colour

  • White

Month of Bloom

  • April
  • May
  • June
  • July

Vigorousness

  • Very Slow
  • Slow

Deer Resistance

  • High

Features

  • Butterflies
  • Bees
  • Used as Groundcover
  • Urban Spaces
  • Rural Spaces
  • Medicinal Properties

Chinook Exposure

  • Moderate

Distribution Info

Native to North America and Eurasia, White Mountain Avens is found across northern and alpine regions of Canada, including YT, NT, NU, and from BC, to ON, as well as NL. In the U.S, it occurs in AK and in high-altitude areas of some States.

Traditional Edible & Medicinal Info

Traditionally, leaf tea made from Dryas octopetala was used to aid digestion and reduce inflammation, while its astringent properties made it beneficial for skin treatments and wound healing. It is not toxic, but excessive consumption may cause digestive upset.