Alpine Forget-Me-Nots

These are surprisingly hardy plants able to take low temperatures and high winds, yet are surprisingly delicate and don't tolerate trampling. They grow low to the soil to avoid wind and wind-blown abrasive grit and to provide a microclimate conducive to growth. Hairy stems and leaves help protect the plant from drying, water loss, and ultraviolet radiation at the high altitude habitat in which they are found.