Edelweiss

mountain flowers · Alps · daisy family · high altitude

Super high homes. Edelweiss grows only in rocky, high mountain areas between 5,900 and 11,200 feet up, where it's cold and windy. It loves limestone rocks in places like the Alps and Carpathian Mountains.

Fuzzy for protection. The plant is covered in dense, woolly hairs that work like a special blanket. These hairs protect it from extreme cold, dryness, and the intense UV rays that hit mountains so close to the sun.

Symbol of strength. Edelweiss represents alpinism (mountain climbing) and has become a national symbol for Bulgaria, Austria, Slovenia, Switzerland, and Italy. In Romania, it was declared a 'monument of nature' because it's so special and scarce.

A promise flower. According to Alpine tradition, giving someone an edelweiss means you promise to love and care for them forever. It's one of nature's most romantic flowers.

Daisy cousin. Edelweiss belongs to the same family as daisies and sunflowers called Asteraceae. Despite growing in harsh mountain conditions, it's completely safe and non-toxic.