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Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preservespatter cones
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Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve
Wildflowers
Rabbitbrush

Rubber Rabbitbrush

Despite the seemingly barren nature of the cinder cones and lava fields, spectacular floral displays occur at Craters of the Moon each spring. Starting with the arrival of the wild onion in late April and ending with the disappearance of the yellow blossoms of the rabbitbrush in September, some variety of wildflower can be found blooming within the monument's boundaries. The ability to grow in this harsh environment means overcoming a lack of moisture, meager soil, and surface temperatures that exceed 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Many of the unusual characteristics of the wildflowers are adaptations for survival.
 
Blazing Star flower
Night blooming Blazing Star flowers.
 

Current Status

The night blooming blazing star is now showing nightly. The yellow flowes of the rubber rabbitbrush are also visible throughout the park.

willife and plants at Craters of the Moon  

Did You Know?
Moonscape?...At first glance the landscape of Craters of the Moon appears to be devoid of life. Look deeper and you will observe a rich diversity of life including more than 660 types of plants and over 280 animal species.

Last Updated: September 08, 2009 at 17:08 EST