102. WESTERN YARROWSunflower Family
Achillea lanulosa
Western Yarrow is very widespread and can be found in much of Western America. It is more common at elevations above 5,000 feet in these areas. It grows to be 12 to 20 inches high, and the fernlike leaves, which have a pungent odor when crushed, and the umbrella-shaped clusters of flowers are characteristics of this plant that help to identify it.
Since ancient times the plant has been highly regarded for its healing properties. Legend ascribed the discovery of this virtue to Achilles, in whose honor the plant is named.
Western Yarrow
103. HEARTLEAF ARNICASunflower Family
Arnica cordifolia
A common flower in the Pine and Spruce forest of Cedar Breaks and the alpine areas of Zion and Bryce Canyon is the Heartleaf Arnica. The yellow ray flowers are few, while the disk or central flowers of the flower head are numerous. The flowers measure about three inches across and are often mistaken for sunflowers. The heart-shaped leaves help distinguish this flower from its close relatives.
Tincture of arnica is obtained from certain species of Arnica.
Heartleaf Arnica