Anaphalis margaritacea Dicot Asteraceae Anaphalis western pearly everlasting

Probable Castilleja miniata Dicot Scrophulariaceae scarlet Indian paintbrush

THis photo taken on Mount Margaret hike, in the Mount Saint Helens Blast zone, about 1200 meters (4000 feet) elevation and about 10 km (6 miles) from Mount Saint Helens volcano. This is 23 years after initial major eruption.

These flowers are growing in an area that was covered in a deep (more than 1 meter) layer of volcanic ash, which is very high in plant nutrients.

The direction of the blast (nothwest) is apparent in this photo as is the exetent of damage. Regrowth is also apparent. This photo is 23 years after the primary eruption. 

The Mount Margaret hike is an excellent walk to observe the desolation and regrowth due to Mount Saint Helen's eruption. At the end of the hike, you get a great view into the volcano, where you can see the lava dome regenerating.