Fendler's Meadowrue-Thalictrum fendleri

This difficult-to-photograph flower is Fendler's Meadowrue (Thalictrum fendleri), a member of the Buttercup Family (Ranunculaceae). It grows on mid-elevation slopes, often in shady areas. In the photo above are the male flowers, hanging down in small clusters. (I will have to try to rephotograph this one, none of many photos turned out well). The wind takes the pollen from the filaments. 

The female flowers don't droop, but rather reach up to the sky, and are able to catch the pollen from the male flowers on their stigmas. These flowers have no petals, just greenish sepals, so they aren't conspicuous due to their flowers, but their pretty leaves will often decorate a large area.

For more information about Fendler's Meadowrue, click here.