Gymnospermium

Gymnospermium is a genus in the Berberidaceae family with tubers that is found in central Asia.


Gymnospermium albertii (Regel) Takht is a spring ephemeral from the harsh climate of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, thus it is perfectly hardy and tolerant of snow cover as well as at least -10 °C unprotected in in full flower. The otherwise bright yellow flowers show deep red and even slightly purplish veins on the outside. Photo 1 shows a floral close-up by Arnold Trachtenberg, photos 2-4 document the floral stages from end of December to end of February of a plant cultivated by Martin Bohnet.

Gymnospermium alberti, Arnold TrachtenbergGymnospermium alberti breaking ground 24th of December, Martin BohnetGymnospermium alberti breaking snow 17th of February, Martin BohnetGymnospermium alberti 27th of February, Martin Bohnet

Gymnospermium altaicum - The first two views of the plant in flower were taken March & April 2003. This plant is very small and rather inconspicuous in bloom (although charming), thus it's difficult to get a good photo. The first photo was taken on March 29, 2003, showing the red, sideways-emerging stems that are less than 2" (5 cm) tall, and small bright yellow flowers. The plant and flowers were unharmed after a week and a half of ice, hail, snow, and pouring rain. The second photo is a worm's-eye view of the dainty flowers that are best observed up close. The last photo was taken spring 2002 of the foliage and spent flower stalks. Photos by Mark McDonough.

Gymnospermium altaicum, Mark McDonoughGymnospermium altaicum, Mark McDonoughGymnospermium altaicum, Mark McDonough

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