18. LARKSPURButtercup Family
Delphinium sp.
Larkspurs are found abundantly at Cedar Breaks during July and August in the alpine meadows of the Monument. The leaves are very similar to those of the Monkshood, but the flowers differ in color and shape. The single spur of one of the sepals is the marked feature of the Larkspur. Color and size vary greatly for the different species; but the most common variety at Cedar Breaks is 2 to 3 feet tall, and the flowers are a purplish blue.
Larkspur
19. MONKSHOODButtercup Family
Aconitum columbianum
Found abundantly at Cedar Breaks in the more open forested areas where there is partial shade and plenty of moisture. The purple Monkshood rank almost as high as their cousins the Columbines and Larkspurs in charm and beauty, with a quaintness and individuality all their own. The flower features a modified sepal shaped like a hood or helmet that protects the stamens. Extracts from the thick, turnip-shaped root are used medicinally in the treatment of certain heart diseases.
Monkshood
20. WESTERN BANEBERRYButtercup Family
Actaea arguta
This plant may be found in the shady forest of good moisture. It is about one to two feet tall with handsome leaves but rather inconspicuous heads of creamy-white flowers. The conspicuous bright-red or waxy-white berries about the size of peas in a dense cluster make a very attractive display in late summer. The berries are somewhat poisonous, hence the name Baneberry.