As the regional flora begins to peek through the melting piles of snow, many Bozeman locals have a renewed sense of appreciation for the beauty of Montana springtime. Although they’re famously short-lived, the reprieve from another frigid winter is made sweeter by the green grasses, blossoming flowers, and leafing out of trees. From our lush forests to open plains, the Montana plant ecosystem is rich with splendor, color, and history. Here is a collection of ten of Montana’s most beloved plants to help you enjoy this spring season to its fullest. 

Bitterroot

Montana’s official state flower since 1895, the bitterroot has been a central element of local history for centuries. Able to withstand the dry conditions thanks to their underground taproot system, these plants are able to thrive in our plethora of rocky hillsides. Native American tribes like the Shoshone and Flathead Indians used to eat and trade this large root, mixing it with meat or berries, and believing in the powerful properties of its red core (such as its potential to stop a bear attack). The vibrant pink and white flower that crowns this coveted root was even noticed by Lewis and Clark as they passed through the area, and has continued to enchant inhabitants and visitors ever since. 

Ponderosa Pine 

Montana is covered by pine trees, the most common of which is the Ponderosa pine. Named the state tree in 1949, these beautiful evergreens can live for hundreds of years, making them a central component of the state’s landscape. Growing to around sixty feet tall, the older trees are noticeable by their thickly grooved bark. These vibrantly green trees create a home for wildlife in their sizeable branches. The only downside of the prominence of Ponderosa pines is their flammability, lending to the quick-spreading nature of forest fires. Still, Montana wouldn’t be complete without them. 

Huckleberries

Popular in everything from candy to wine, Montana huckleberries are a prevalent part of the local culture. Recently having been declared the state berry in 2023 (thanks to the efforts of Vaughn Elementary School students), tourists and locals alike revered this fruit for years before it became official. There are plenty of opportunities to pick huckleberries over the summer, as the prime picking season is between July and August. Besides the number of berry farms to choose from, many hikers find success on trails such as Lava Lake and Grotto Falls. 

Bluebunch Wheatgrass 

This durable, erosion and drought resistant plant became Montana’s official state grass due to its practical use in the farming profession. Bluebunch wheatgrass is used in native feed that sustains livestock, as it keeps well throughout the winter and is highly nutritious. When growing wildly, many animals such as elk, deer, and sheep enjoy grazing on it as well. Although grass can blend into the background, species such as bluebunch wheatgrass are crucial for Montana’s ecosystem while being a lovely addition to the landscape.

Yarrow 

Another floral staple of Montana, the yarrow plant’s delicate white flowers are a sight familiar to many on hikes, scenic drives, and even in local gardens. Often growing to over three feet tall, this plant thrives in well-drained, sunny areas. This member of the daisy family can be found all over the state, and plays an important role in bolstering environmental health; its many flowers attract pollinators that support the local ecosystem. Additionally, the yarrow plant is sometimes used in medicinal practices, helping to treat colds, headaches, and fevers. This beautiful and practical flower has been a beloved part of the landscape for generations.

Blanketflower

Montana is home to a variety of beautiful wildflowers, not the least of which is the multicolored blanketflower. Instantly recognizable from its vibrantly red center that becomes a lovely yellow at the ends, this plant can be found on many hiking trails, in open plains, and is a stunning addition to gardens. These flowers begin to bloom in May, and can grow to around three feet tall. In addition to their beauty, these blooms provide a food source for pollinators and roaming livestock. 

Big Sagebrush

Visible in the background of nearly every stunning Montana scene, the big sagebrush is one of the most common bushes around the state. Although they aren’t flashy, their almost pastel green leaves add a touch of quiet spectacle that Montana wouldn’t be the same without. Not to mention its refreshing smell: next time you come across a big sagebrush, let a few crushed leaves dry and enjoy their evergreen fragrance. With its aromatic qualities, soft leaves, and gentle color, the big sagebrush is a comforting presence throughout the state. 

Saskatoon Berry

Having been described as a delectably tart flavor combination of raspberry, blueberry, and almonds, the native saskatoon berry can be a scrumptious addition to any hike* or baking recipe. These berries have a long history of feeding Montana’s inhabitants, and are still commonly used today in a number of baking recipes, salads, jams, and even some savory dishes. Appearing as shrubs with dainty, white flowers and dark purple fruits, the saskatoon berry thrives in dry forests, grasslands, and valleys. *If you stumble across this plant the next time you’re exploring the state, feel free to give them a taste test! Just be sure that you’re not about to eat anything dangerous; a small black dot on a berry is a sure sign that it’s not meant for consumption. 

Lewis Flax 

Collected by Lewis and Clark as they traveled through Montana in 1806, this quaint blueish-purple flower has historically held immense practical value. Native Shoshone used flax to make tools such as fishing nets, baskets, and even snowshoes. The plant also had medicinal value, treating ailments such as swelling and eye problems, and for washing the body and hair. Today, the Lewis flax is one of the most historically valuable and enduringly beautiful elements of Montana, enhancing the landscape with its practical beauty. 

Western Columbine

One of the most uniquely shaped flowers in the state, the western columbine’s downturned cone-like shape and jewel-toned coloration make it instantly recognizable. Blooming from June to August, this member of the buttercup family populates Montana’s forests and meadows, particularly thriving in moist areas. Named after birds in flight, a western columbine swaying in the breeze almost looks as if it is about to take off and soar through the sky. The roots of the flower were once used by some Native American tribes to treat ulcers, and have fragrant seeds that have been used in washes and for aromatic treatments.