Dryas drummondii, commonly known as Yellow Mountain-Avens, is a perennial herb native to alpine and subalpine zones, tundra, and rocky slopes in Alaska, Canada, and the northern United States. It is particularly adapted to cold climates and is found in mountainous regions where it contributes to soil stabilization and ecosystem diversity. This low-growing plant typically reaches 4 to 12 inches in height and forms dense mats with its woody stems. The leaves are dark green, leathery, and have a distinctive, deeply lobed shape. Yellow Mountain-Avens produces solitary, buttery yellow flowers with numerous stamens in the center, which bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are showy and attract pollinators such as bees.

Yellow Mountain-Avens is valued for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, thanks to its symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. This makes it an excellent choice for restoration projects and for planting in nutrient-poor, well-drained soils. It is also used in rock gardens and alpine collections for its attractive foliage and bright flowers. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to partial shade and requires minimal watering once established. While generally disease-free, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0