The Dolomites in mid-June 2023 – Day 9: Porta Vescovo

The weather the following day remained good.  We decided to visit another destination from our previous trip – the ridge of volcanic rocks south of Arabba. Porta Vescovo 2478m Our destination was Porta Vescovo.  This is a cable car station perched high on a ridge above Arabba.  Unlike most of ...(more below)
August 2, 2023
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The weather the following day remained good.  We decided to visit another destination from our previous trip – the ridge of volcanic rocks south of Arabba.

Porta Vescovo 2478m

Our destination was Porta Vescovo.  This is a cable car station perched high on a ridge above Arabba.  Unlike most of the places we visited, which were on limestone, it is on a volcanic, and therefore acidic, ridge which runs south and east from the Pordoi Pass.  That makes it a particularly alluring destination, and it is home to some exciting plants.

Here the cable car station balances teetering on the edge of a steep rocky ridge – very much the rim of an ancient volcano – with steep drops on either side.  In the view below, it is sitting in the saddle where Marmolada peeps over the rocky ridge.  The jagged peak to the left is Bech da Mesdi – a via ferrata runs along the very top of the ridge, but that is well outside our capabilities.

Alpine Mountain Landscape with rugged peaks, lush green valleys, and snow-capped summits, perfect for enthusiasts of alpine gardening and mountain flora.

Lilium bulbiferum

The bus to Arabba takes you up and over the Campolongo Pass.  On the other side, we were pleased to see a meadow full of the orange lily, Lilium bulbiferum.  As the bus slowed to a halt around a hair-pin bend, we had a lovely view of a flower-garden, with lupins, Aquilegia, oriental poppies and masses of Honesty (Lunaria annua).

That was something which puzzled me on our transfer from the airport.  Several times we crossed deep valleys, and saw this robust purple flower growing along streams.  It was only when I saw it in a village garden that I realised what it was.

Lilium bulbiferum
Verda garden

Soon we were at the bottom cable station.  It is a long, steep ride – this is just the section up to the first ridge.

Arabba cable car
Cable car ascending lush green mountains in alpine scenery, surrounded by forests and a charming village with tourists enjoying the view.

The ascent in the cable car yielded fine views, and a few interesting plants.  On the initial steep ridge (4th image), large white flowers peppered the grass between the rhododendrons.  I am fairly convinced that these were the white form of Pulsatilla alpina.  Sadly, there was no easy way of confirming that identification.

mountain view - Bech da Mesdi
cable car view of Arabba
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Alpine garden with a variety of colourful wildflowers and rugged mountain landscape, showcasing the beauty of alpine flora and terrain for garden enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Geum reptans

Then, as we were approaching the top of the ride, there was a splash of yellow on the cliff, which I couldn’t make out properly through the scratched windows.  Fortunately, once we debarked, I was able to get a clear view.  This was Geum reptans, which had almost finished flowering last year when we visited.

Geum reptans
Yellow alpine flowers blooming on rocky mountain slope, representative of alpine gardening highlight, alpine garden society plant conservation, rugged terrain flora, scenic mountain wildflowers, native alpine plant species.

The views from the top were stunning.  To the south Marmolada in all its glory, cloaked in snow and ice.  And to the north:

  • a view over the Campolongo Pass to Mount Sassolongher on the left, above Corvara
  • a little further away, on the right, we have the pointed Sasso delle Dieci above Santa Croce and Badia
  • then in the distance, the snow capped peaks of Monte Nevoso, Magerstein, Rotspitz (3495m) and Monte Collalto (3436m) on the Austro-Italian border over 40 miles away.
Snow-capped mountain peaks with rocky slopes under a clear blue sky, showcasing alpine landscape scenery suitable for alpine gardening inspiration.
Vast mountain landscape with rolling green hills, rugged cliffs, and snow-capped peaks under a blue sky, perfect for Alpine gardening and mountain flora enthusiasts.

Rhodiola rosea

Last year, Saxifraga exarata subsp. moschata covered the bank beside this path; this year hardly a flower was open.  However, we did find plants of Linaria alpina, and a magnificent specimen of Rhodiola rosea with buds just opening.

Violet and purple flowering plants, clover and ground cover, thriving in rocky soil, showcasing alpine garden flora for rockery landscapes and garden enthusiasts.
Tiny alpine plant with green lobed leaves and clusters of small, rounded, reddish-purple flowers, thriving in rocky, dry soil; perfect for rock gardens and alpine planting enthusiasts.

Androsace vitaliana

However, when we got to the second cable car station, which doesn’t run in the summer, the Androsace vitaliana were in much better condition than last year.

Yellow alpine flowers thriving on rocky mountain terrain, showcasing wild plant growth typical of alpine gardens. A natural alpine landscape with hardy plants adapted to harsh conditions.
Vibrant yellow alpine flowers growing on rocky soil, showcasing hardy mountain flora at an alpine garden society event or location.
Yellow alpine flowers growing on rocky soil, representing the Alpine Garden Society's focus on alpine and rock garden plants in the UK.

Geum reptans

From here, you can peer down a scree to the north of the ridge, though it is fenced off to prevent any foolhardy descent.  This way, I got slightly closer to a plant of Geum reptans.  Also, further down the scree, I could glimpse the strident purple and orange of Linaria alpina, and some clumps of bright magenta.  These were unmistakably Primula minima.

Bright yellow alpine flowers growing among rocks and hardy mountain terrain, showcasing lush alpine gardening and plant cultivation.
Alpine garden with vibrant pink flowering plant among rocky terrain and sparse vegetation, showcasing low-growing alpine flora in a natural mountain landscape.
Bright purple alpine flowers growing on rocky mountain slope, showcasing hardy alpine plant species, supported by Alpine Garden Society for rock garden planting and alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Alpine garden landscape with small purple flowers, rocky soil and hardy plants, showcasing typical flora of high-altitude garden settings for conservation and plant enthusiasts.

Pulsatilla alpina subsp. apiifolia

As we proceeded we started to see flowers of Pulsatilla alpina subsp. apiifolia in the grass beside us.  Most of these plants were very small – only 6 inches high at most, with single flowers.  They came in a variety of shades; I am not sure whether this is simply variation within the subspecies, or whether the pale ones are hybrids.

Yellow flowering alpine plant with a small insect on its petal, surrounded by green grass and foliage, perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
White alpine flower with yellow stamens among grass and dried foliage, part of Alpine Garden Society's collection, highlighting alpine plant beauty and diversity for garden enthusiasts.

Androsace obtusifolia

We also found Androsace obtusifolia among the grass, and Linaria alpina right beside us as we crossed a treacherous section of loose gravel.

Delicate white alpine flowers with yellow centers blooming in a natural mountain habitat, surrounded by grass and earthy tones.
Purple alpine flowers blooming in rocky soil for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

As we neared the boulder field, small patches of snow appeared on the path.  Fortunately, we could walk around the edge of them.

Alpine landscape with rugged mountains, lush green meadows, and a hiker in the foreground, highlighting alpine flora and terrain typical of the Alpine Garden Society's interests.
Alpine garden landscape featuring rocky terrain, snow patches, and mountain scenery, ideal for alpine plant enthusiasts and nature explorers in high-altitude environments.

Gentiana brachyphylla

The spring gentians you see here, on these acidic volcanic slopes, are Gentiana brachyphylla, with wide, rhomboid leaves with a pointed apex.  By now I had left the path, and was exploring among the boulders.

Vivid blue alpine flowers growing amid grasses and rocky terrain in a mountain meadow.
Vivid blue alpine gentians blooming among green foliage and rocky soil, showcasing a stunning example of hardy mountain flora ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Vivid blue cyclamen flowers in natural garden setting, showcasing alpine plant beauty, perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Vivid blue alpine flowers blooming in rocky soil, part of alpine garden landscape. Perfect for showcasing mountain flora and garden enthusiasts interested in alpine plant collections and gardening.
Vivid blue gentian flowers blooming among low green succulent plants in alpine garden setting.

Soldanella pusilla

Likewise, the only Soldanella we saw was the tiny Soldanella pusilla – the other species prefer alkaline conditions.  The bells of this are wide at the top with more parallel sides, rather than strongly flared.

Wild alpine plants with purple flowers growing among rocks on a mountain slope, showcasing hardy flora suitable for alpine gardening and rock gardens.
Violet wildflowers blooming in the alpine garden, showcasing rare and beautiful flora perfect for rock gardens and alpine plant enthusiasts.
Purple hellebores blooming in alpine garden terrain, showcasing unique wildflowers and native plant varieties under natural sunlight.
Violet flowers of alpine primroses blooming in the soil, surrounded by grass and natural debris, with sunlight highlighting their vibrant purple petals.
Alpine lady's mantle flowers blooming in a garden setting, showcasing early spring alpine plant growth for alpine garden enthusiasts and rock garden collectors.
Purple bell-shaped alpine flowers growing amidst rocky soil and grass on a mountainside.
Purple spring wildflowers blooming in alpine garden soil at the Alpine Garden Society.
Purple bell-shaped alpine flowers growing among rocks and greenery, perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Geum reptans

At the base of the boulders, we started to find more accessible plants of Geum reptans.

Yellow alpine rock garden flowers, vibrant and hardy, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and rock garden planting. Suitable for outdoor alpine gardening and natural plant displays.
Bright yellow alpine flowers blooming among rocky terrain, representing hardy flora typical of alpine gardens and suitable for mountain cliff planting.
Vibrant yellow alpine flower blooming beside a moss-covered rock, showcasing Alpine Garden Society’s focus on alpine and rock garden plants, perfect for enthusiasts and gardeners.

Pulsatilla alpina subsp. apiifolia

There were more and more of the lovely, tiny Pulsatilla alpina subsp. apiifolia, with single flowers just open.

Primula auricula flower blooming in alpine garden soil, showcasing the vibrant yellow petals and central yellow stamens. Perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and plant collectors.
Bright yellow alpine flower blooming amidst green grass and rocky soil, showcasing alpine garden beauty and wildflower landscapes.
Yellow alpine poppy flower growing in mountain terrain, native to the British Isles, showcasing vibrant petals and distinct central reproductive structures for alpine plant enthusiasts.

Soldanella pusilla

The Soldanella pusilla were a joy to see, with their bells swinging in the wind.  I even found a few poking through the snow in the classic fashion.

Violet alpine flowers blooming on rocky hillside for alpine gardening, showcasing delicate purple blooms in natural habitat for Alpine Garden Society enthusiasts.
Purple primula flowers blooming in a wild alpine garden, showcasing rare and native plants ideal for mountain and rock garden cultivation.
Purple alpine flowers blooming on a rocky ground, ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Violet native flowers blooming on rocky soil, part of alpine gardening displays, showcasing rare mountain plants for conservation and cultivation.
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Spring snowdrops emerging through snow, showcasing resilient alpine plants for rock gardens, native plant gardening, and seasonal bloom displays at Alpine Garden Society events.
Pink fringe flower growing in rocky alpine terrain, featured in Alpine Garden Society collection, highlighting rare alpine plants and wildflower conservation.
Pink alpine flower, native to mountainous regions, held delicately between fingers for close-up view.

Primula minima

Among the boulders, I started to come across mats of Primula minima, mainly rather sparse flowered, as it tends to be in cultivation.  Lovely to see it with flowers in good condition though.

Pink alpine primrose flowers blooming in rocky soil, synonymous with alpine garden societies, showcasing hardy plants suitable for mountain slopes.
Vivid pink Dianthus flowers blooming among green foliage and rocky soil, showcasing alpine garden plants suited for rockeries and alpine regions.
Purple alpine flower blooming in rocky soil, native to mountainous regions, part of the Alpine Garden Society plant collection, showcasing rare and hardy plants for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Vivid purple and pink alpine flowers growing on rocky soil, representing alpine garden plant species from the Alpine Garden Society.
Violet alpine flowers growing among grass and rocks in a mountain landscape, showcasing hardy plants suitable for alpine gardening.
Vivid pink and white primula flowers in a natural alpine garden setting, showcasing hardy, low-growing perennial plants suitable for mountain and rock garden gardening.

Loiseleuria procumbens

I delved further and further, higher and higher into the boulders, lured ever onwards by new discoveries.  Eventually, I rounded a large rock, and came across a huge mat of the tiny Loiseleuria procumbens, fully 3 feet across.

Wow!  This was something we didn’t see last year, and an amazing specimen to boot.  I couldn’t stop taking photos, and summoned Helen to see my find.

Climber resting on alpine mountain landscape with snow-capped peaks, rocky terrain, and vibrant green grassy foreground, showcasing outdoor adventure and mountain trekking in high-altitude environments.
Alpine garden scenery with pink flowers, rugged mountain landscape, rocky terrain, and snow-capped peaks, perfect for alpine flora enthusiasts and garden society members.
Alpine flowers and pink flowering plants in a mountainous landscape with snow-capped peaks, showcasing alpine gardening and mountain flora in a stunning high-altitude setting.
Pink alpine flowers blooming on a mountainous landscape with rocky slopes and green hills in the background, typical of the Alpine Garden Society's focus on high-altitude plant cultivation and wildflower conservation.
Pink alpine flowering plant growing on rocky hillside, low-growing, lush greenery, natural habitat for alpine gardens, suitable for rock gardens and mountainous environments, UK native flora, wild plant in mountainous terrain, ASGS.
Pink alpine flowers growing on a mountain meadow, showcasing vibrant and hardy plants typical for Alpine gardens, perfect for rockeries and low-maintenance garden designs in the UK.
Pink alpine flowers carpet the ground with lush green foliage, ideal for rock gardens and mountain landscapes, promoting alpine plant cultivation and garden beauty.
Pink flowering alpine plant ground cover, perfect for garden borders and rockeries, thriving in well-drained soil and full sun, ideal choice for alpine plant enthusiasts.
Vivid pink alpine flowers and lush green foliage growing in rocky soil, representing hardy plants suitable for mountainous and alpine gardens.

Eritrichium nanum

And then, what was that splash of blue on a rock nearby.  Eritrichium nanum, the ‘King of the Alps’ was just waking from its winter slumbers.

Saxifraga cotyledon growing on rocky terrain, showcasing hardy alpine plants used in rock gardens. Wildflower found in mountainous regions, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Alpine flowers growing on rocky terrain with mountain peaks and lush valleys in the background, showcasing alpine plant cultivation and mountain gardening.
Wild alpine blue flowers growing in a crevice on a rugged rocky landscape with a mountain in the background, highlighting alpine and mountain gardening.
Vivid blue alpine primula growing among rocky terrain, showcasing mountain flora diversity.
Blue alpine primrose growing among volcanic rocks, showcasing hardy plants suitable for alpine gardening, with vibrant blue flowers and lush green foliage.
Bright blue alpine flowers growing among rocks in a rugged mountain landscape, showcasing hardy plants suitable for alpine gardening and plant enthusiasts, under natural outdoor conditions.

Pulsatilla vernalis

Another boulder, another grassy dell, and we came across a single flower of Pulsatilla vernalis, which had eluded me at Vallon.

Bright alpine flower blooming among dry grass and soil in a mountainous environment, showcasing the beauty of mountain flora and the importance of alpine gardening.
Wild alpine flower blooming in rocky soil, showcasing delicate white petals with a vibrant yellow center, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and rock garden planting.

Geum montanum

There were also occasional plants of Geum montanum, in perfect condition, looking particularly striking next to Gentiana brachyphylla.  But nothing like the sheets of it we saw in 2022.

Vivid blue and bright yellow alpine flowers growing in a natural garden setting, showcasing alpine plant varieties and wildflowers.

Ranunculus kuepferi

As we worked our way back down to the path, in a depression where the snow had just gone, we came across a patch of little white buttercups with strap-shaped leaves.  Something else to look up and identify.

It seems that the proper name for it in the Alps is Ranunculus kuepferi.  Ranunculus pyrenaeus is very similar, but confined to the Pyrenees.

Wild alpine flower blooming in garden soil, native to mountain regions, thriving in the Alpine Garden Society's plant collections.
White alpine flower blooming amidst grass and leaf litter in natural outdoor setting.
Delphinium flower blooming in alpine garden soil, showcasing hardy alpine plants cultivated for rock and mountain gardens. Perfect for succulent and low-maintenance garden design.

Gagea serotina

Our cup was already running over, but proceeding along the path, it wasn’t long before I came across a group of little white flowers in the turf atop a boulder.  These were tiny, on 3-6in hairlike stems, and dancing like fury in the breeze.  There was only one thing they could be, the Snowdon Lily, Gagea serotina.  Beautiful, and a nightmare to photograph.

Wild alpine flowers growing on rocky terrain in an alpine garden setting, showcasing their resilience and beauty in high-altitude environments.
Primula vulgaris growing in an alpine garden with lush green foliage and soil background.
Wild alpine flower blooming near rocks in high mountain environment.
Delphinium alpestre alpine flowers growing among grass and rocky terrain, highlighting alpine garden plants.

Saxifraga bryoides ?

Near them was this curious orange cushion.  I think it was a saxifrage, probably S. bryoides, but with a terrible rust infection.  Later in the day I found a couple of similar patches.

Tiny alpine plants with yellow flowers growing among rocks and soil in mountain terrain.

Draba aizoides

But the next yellow clump proved to be a fine plant of Draba aizoides.

Golden yellow alpine flowers native to high-altitude regions, ideal for rock gardens and alpine plant collections, thriving in well-drained, rocky soil. Perfect for enthusiasts of alpine gardening and plant conservation.

Pulsatilla alpina subsp. apiifolia

On the grassy bank below the path, we came across more and more Pulsatilla alpina subsp. apiifolia, in a variety of shades.  Some were so pale that I wondered if they were the white form, Pulsatilla alpina subsp. austroalpina.

Peony flowers blooming in alpine garden, vibrant yellow petals and central stamens, surrounded by grass and moss, showcasing alpine flora and garden biodiversity.
Yellow alpine flowers with bees pollinating in a natural mountain garden setting, showcasing the beauty of alpine plants and pollinator interaction.
Yellow alpine flowers, early spring bloom, native to mountains, vibrant yellow petals, wildflower garden, alpine plant species, colourful mountain flora, native British plants, garden plant for rocky soils, hardy perennial flowers, mountain flora for gardens.
White alpine flower with a bee collecting nectar in the soil; alpine garden society plant, pollinator-friendly, native wildflower for mountain gardens, botanical display, sustainable horticulture, UK alpine flora.
White Anemone flowers blooming in alpine garden soil, showcasing native wildflowers for rock garden planting and plant conservation.
White alpine flowers with yellow centres, thriving in rocky soil, representing Alpine Garden Society's focus on alpine plant cultivation and conservation.

Pulsatilla vernalis

We started to skirt the edge of a gully, where the snow had only just gone.  Here there was a sizeable population of Pulsatilla vernalis, some with a flush of pink / lilac to the inside as well as the outside of the flowers.

Botanical image of blooming pasqueflowers (Pulsatilla vulgaris) growing in alpine garden soil, showcasing early spring flowers for alpine plant enthusiasts.
Wild white alpine flowers with bright yellow centers blooming in rocky soil, showcasing the beauty and resilience of alpine garden plants. Perfect for enthusiasts of mountain flora and succulent gardens.
Violet alpine flower in bloom, close-up of a rare mountain blossom, native to rocky, high-altitude habitats, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and wildflower conservation projects.
Purple pasqueflower blooming in alpine garden, close-up of delicate flower with soft petals and fuzzy stem, perfect for alpine plant enthusiasts and garden design.
Pink pasque flower blooming in alpine garden with yellow stamens and purple petals on rocky soil, highlighting wildflower species suitable for alpine gardening and native plant conservation.
White alpine flower with yellow centre blooming near rocky terrain, part of alpine gardening collections.
White pasque flower blooming in rocky garden soil, early spring alpine plant, native to native to mountainous regions, part of wildflower conservation efforts, perfect for rock gardens and alpine landscaping, vibrant yellow centre surrounded by white petals, delicate yet hardy plant suitable for alpine gardens.
White alpine flower with bright yellow centre blooming in rocky soil, representing alpine gardening.

Anemone baldensis

At the base of a huge boulder on the opposite side of the path, we found a few flowers of Anemone baldensis, familiar to us from the limestone at Vallon.

Wild alpine anemone flowers growing at the base of a rocky wall, capturing the beauty of mountain flora.
White alpine flower blooming against a rough bark background; perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and rock garden landscapes.

We rounded the end of the gully, and started walking southwards, straight towards Marmolada, along the steep side of the ridge we had seen earlier, crossing patches of scree as we went.

Alpine mountain landscape with hikers walking along a trail, snow patches, and rugged peaks in the background, showcasing the beauty of high-altitude environments.
Hiker walking on alpine trail in mountainous landscape with snowy peaks under blue sky, showcasing the beauty of high-altitude gardens and outdoor exploration.

Soldanella pusilla

There were great sheets of Soldanella here.

Wild alpine bellflowers growing on rocky terrain in a natural alpine garden setting.
Pink bell-shaped alpine flowers growing in rocky soil, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Bluebell flowers in early spring, alpine garden society, woodland plants, native British flora, delicate purple bell-shaped blossoms, garden landscaping, wildflower conservation, spring bloom, seasonal garden inspiration, botanical garden plants.

Saxifraga depressa

Growing at the bottom of the bank the Soldanella were on, a white saxifrage was flowering.  I think this is Saxifraga depressa.

Wild alpine plants growing on rocky terrain with purple and white flowers, representing the diversity of mountain flora celebrated by the Alpine Garden Society.
Wild alpine flowers blooming among moss and rocks, highlighting alpine garden flora and mountain plant varieties for enthusiasts and gardeners interested in alpine vegetation.
White alpine primroses growing among moss and ground cover in a natural mountain habitat.

Primula minima

The slope below us was pink with Primula minima, flowering profusely, but there was no way I could get down there to photograph them.  It looks as though there is a lower path across the slope it might be possible to climb up from.

Vibrant alpine plants and wildflowers on a steep hillside in a British mountain landscape, showcasing the beauty of alpine gardening and native flora for garden enthusiasts.

Geum reptans

On the scree above the path there were fabulous clumps of Geum reptans.  This was more attainable – only a few feet above the path, and if I slipped, the path was wide enough to stop on.  A little bit precarious, but I managed.

Alpine garden plants with yellow flowers thriving on rocky mountain terrain, showcasing alpine flora in natural habitat.
Primula veris, also known as cowslip, growing on a rocky hillside with bright yellow flowers and green foliage, typical of alpine garden flora.
Yellow alpine flowers in rocky mountain terrain, showcasing alpine garden plant diversity and vibrant spring blooms for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Yellow mountain avens (Geum montanum) blooming in alpine garden, showcasing vibrant colour and delicate petals, native to mountainous regions, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and rock garden landscaping.

Ranunculus glacialis

A little further, we came across a small group of Ranunculus glacialis plants, on loose scree below the path.  These were nearly within reach, but I couldn’t get close enough for good close-ups.

Bright alpine flowers with white petals, pink tints, and yellow centres blooming among rocky soil, showcasing hardy mountain flora for garden enthusiasts.
White alpine poppies blooming in a rocky garden setting, showcasing hardy alpine plants ideal for garden enthusiasts and alpine plant collectors. Perfect for creating beautiful mountainous landscapes.
White alpine flowers with yellow centres and glossy green foliage, cultivated by Alpine Garden Society for rock gardens and alpine plant enthusiasts.

Androsace vitaliana

The thin grass and scree at the end of this granite ridge were covered with clumps of yellow Androsace vitaliana.

Alpine garden landscape with snow-capped mountains and wildflowers, showcasing alpine plants and gardening in high-altitude environments.
Alpine garden society plants thriving on rocky mountain slope with vivid yellow flowers and sparse vegetation, showcasing alpine gardening expertise.
Wild yellow crocus flowers blooming on rocky mountain terrain, symbolising alpine flora and mountain wildflowers, suitable for Alpine Garden Society enthusiasts.
Bright yellow alpine flowers blooming amidst rocky mountain terrain, showcasing hardy plants suitable for alpine gardens and high-altitude landscaping.
Vibrant yellow flowering alpine plant thriving in rocky soil, showcasing hardy, colourful blooms for alpine gardening and rock garden designs.
Bright yellow alpine flowers of the Alpine Garden Society, showcasing vibrant blooms and lush greenery in a natural rocky setting, perfect for alpine plant enthusiasts.
Alpine flowers blooming on rocky mountain slope with snow-capped peaks in background, suitable for Alpine Garden Society enthusiasts and alpine plant lovers.
Tiny yellow alpine flowers growing among rocky terrain in mountain landscape, illustrating alpine gardening and plant conservation.

We stopped on the crest of the ridge for lunch (a cereal bar) and a drink (of water), and to admire the view, both of Marmolada and the rocky peaks behind us.  Then we looked at the best way of returning to the cable car.  By climbing up the ridge a little way, we could return on a higher path which went round the back of the scree.

Alpine mountain landscape with snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain, ideal for alpine gardening and mountain flora conservation.
Vibrant alpine garden with a variety of high-altitude plants, scenic mountain backdrop, and clear lake, perfect for enthusiasts of alpine gardening and mountain flora conservation.
Alpine garden landscape with rugged rocky mountain terrain and alpine flora under a bright blue sky, showcasing the beauty of high-altitude plant habitats in the UK.
Snow-capped mountain landscape with rocky peaks and ski slopes, winter scenery at alpine resort, cable car visible in distance, cloudy sky, high-altitude outdoor environment, popular for skiing and mountain hiking in the Alps.
Alpine garden society snow-capped mountain landscape, alpine plants, mountain flora, gardening in high altitudes, Alpine Garden Society events and activities.
Alpine garden society rocky mountain landscape with sparse vegetation and rugged cliffs, showcasing alpine plants and wild flora relevant to rock gardening and mountainous plant habitats.
Craggy mountain peak with a clear blue sky in the background, showcasing rugged natural rock formations perfect for alpine gardening and rock gardening enthusiasts.

It was just possible to make out where the via ferrata along the ridge crossed a bridge.  We could see distant figures making their way along this route, but were glad we weren’t doing so ourselves.

Unique alpine rock formation in mountain landscape, rugged terrain, natural geological features, scenic outdoor environment, high-altitude scenery, outdoor nature photography, British landscape, geological tourism.
R17/01/24_Alpine_Garden_Society_Climbers_in_rocky_mountains.jpg.

Gagea serotina

As we ascended the ridge, we found more Gagea in the thin grass, together with many more familiar plants:

  • Minuartia species
  • Veronica alpina
  • Leucanthemopsis alpina
  • Silene acaulis (more exposed here, so less snow and more sun)
  • Linaria alpina
  • Saxifraga exarata subsp moschata
  • Myosotis alpestris
  • Minuartia sedoides
  • Gentiana brachyphylla including a purple flowered form.
Erica carnea blooming on a mountain slope, attracting alpine gardeners with its vibrant pink and white flowers, perfect for rock gardens and alpine plant collections.
Wild alpine flowers blooming in garden soil with green foliage, showcasing native plants of the Alpine Garden Society for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
White alpine flowers growing in rocky terrain, suitable for alpine garden enthusiasts.
White alpine flowers growing among rocks, showcasing hardy plants for mountain gardens, suitable for Alpine Garden Society recommendations and rock garden enthusiasts.
Vancouveria plants in bloom with small blue flowers growing among rocks and greenery.
Alpine edelweiss growing in rocky soil, native to mountain regions, showcasing resilient wildflowers typical of alpine gardens.
Pink alpine flowers in a natural garden setting, showcasing the diverse plant species cultivated by the Alpine Garden Society for rock gardens and alpine plant enthusiasts.
Pink creeping thyme ground cover blooming in an alpine garden, ideal for rockeries and low-maintenance landscapes, showcasing the beauty of hardy low-growing plants suitable for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Purple alpine flowers growing among rocky terrain, representative of alpine gardening and plant resilience.
Yellow alpine flowering plant, small star-shaped flowers, rocky soil habitat, native to mountainous regions, perfect for alpine gardens, high-altitude plant, British native flora, garden centre plant, hardy for cold climates, low-growing perennial.
Blue forget-me-not flowers in rocky alpine environment, close-up of vibrant blue blooms and lush green leaves, ideal for alpine gardening and wildflower meadow cultivation, part of the Alpine Garden Society collection.
Vivid green moss and small yellow flowers carpeting the ground in a lush alpine garden setting.
Violet alpine flowers growing among dry grass in a natural setting, showcasing the beauty of alpine garden plants and wildflowers.
Blue alpine flowers growing in rocky garden terrain at the Alpine Garden Society.

We soon reached a turn, and followed a path across the top of the scree we had crossed lower down.  We had wonderful views across the boulder field towards Porta Vescovo, and back down the gully to Marmolada.

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Androsace vitaliana

There were big mats of Androsace vitaliana here, both beside the path and below us on the scree.

Alpine garden trail winding through mountainous landscape with rocky cliffs and greenery in the background, showcasing alpine flora and rugged terrain.
Vivid yellow alpine flowers blooming on rocky terrain with lush green hills and rugged mountains in the background, under a clear blue sky, showcasing Himalayan alpine flora.
Yellow alpine flowers growing on rocky soil, native plants of mountainous regions, part of the Alpine Garden Society's collection of hardy plants, suitable for rock gardens and alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Gentiana brachyphylla white form

Down the slope to the left we could see a white spring gentian, among the buds of Androsace obtusifolia.  Again sadly out of reach.

Delphinium plants thriving in alpine garden terrain with rocky soil and native grasses, showcasing their delicate white flowers typical of alpine flora.

Geum reptans and Ranunculus glacialis

To the right a loose scree extended a long way up to the base of the crags.  On it, we could see clearly more clumps of Geum reptans, and some fabulous specimens of Ranunculus glacialis.  Sadly, this was as close as I could get (20 yards or so away).

Alpine plants growing on rocky mountain terrain with yellow flowers, showcasing alpine gardening and native plant conservation.
Rock garden with alpine plants and vibrant yellow flowers on rocky mountain terrain, showcasing the beauty of alpine gardening and hardy plant species in challenging environments.
Rock garden flowers in alpine environment, hardy daisies thriving on rocky terrain for alpine gardening enthusiasts, Alpine Garden Society members, high-altitude plants, best practices in rock garden plant care, alpine flora photography, sustainable gardening in rugged environments, wildflower conservation efforts in mountain regions, desert-adapted flowering plants, gardening tips for extreme environments.

We didn’t find a great deal of interest along the top side of the boulder field.  There was plenty of snow still amongst the boulders, and on occasion, across the path.  As a result, flowers were mainly yet to come.

Rocky mountain landscape with alpine flora, snow patches, and rugged peaks in the background, ideal for alpine gardening and mountain plant enthusiasts.
Alpine landscape with rugged rocks, mountain valleys, and modern alpine buildings under a blue sky, showcasing stunning scenery ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Rocks and snow in alpine mountain landscape with rugged peaks and green slopes, perfect for alpine gardening and mountain flora enthusiasts.
Snow melting between moss-covered rocks in mountain terrain, highlighting alpine landscape and natural beauty for rock gardening and mountain plant enthusiasts.
Footpath and animal tracks in melting snow on mountain trail, surrounded by moss-covered rocks, alpine environment, outdoor hiking, nature exploration, and wildlife.

Geum reptans

But we did pass some more fine plants of Geum reptans, on the sunny side of the path, but nestled under boulders.  What a lovely plant it is in the wild!  A shame it is nearly impossible to grow.

Yellow alpine flowers growing among rocks with a bee collecting pollen, showcasing alpine gardening and wildflower cultivation in mountainous landscapes, ideal for Alpine Garden Society enthusiasts.
Vibrant yellow alpine poppies blooming on rocky terrain, showcasing hardy plants suitable for mountain gardens and rocky landscapes. Ideal for rockeries and alpine garden enthusiasts.
Bright yellow alpine wildflowers growing among rocky terrain, showcasing hardy mountain plants for garden cultivation.

Pulsatilla alpina subsp. apiifolia

A little further on, the sunny grass bank to our right was dotted with little plants of Pulsatilla alpina subsp. apiifolia, some almost white.

Rocks and yellow wildflowers on a mountain slope, alpine landscape scene suitable for Alpine Garden Society enthusiasts.
Bright yellow alpine flower in a garden setting, showcasing the beauty of mountain-native plants, perfect for garden enthusiasts interested in alpine gardening and plant conservation.
A white Anemone flower blooming in a natural garden setting with green foliage and soil background.
White alpine flower with yellow stamens blooming in rocky terrain, representing the Alpine Garden Society's focus on alpine plants and gardening excellence.

Gentiana acaulis

Not many trumpet gentians were out yet.  As you would expect on acidic rocks, they were Gentiana acaulis.

Vibrant blue gentian flowers blooming in alpine meadow, surrounded by grass and rocky soil, representing alpine plant diversity and garden interests.
Vivid blue wildflower, grazing amongst dry grass, associated with Alpine Garden Society botanical collections and alpine plant habitat.
Violet blue and green flower, native to alpine regions, surrounded by dry grass and foliage, illustrating Alpine Garden Society's focus on alpine plants and gardening in rugged environments.

Gentiana brachyphylla

Gentiana brachyphylla was also flowering on this grassy bank.

Alpine flowers blooming in a mountainous landscape with snow-capped peaks, showcasing alpine gardening and mountain flora.
Bright blue alpine flowers in a rugged mountain landscape with grassy slopes and rocky cliffs, representing the beauty of alpine gardening and plant conservation.

By now we were past the boulders, and took a slightly lower path across to the cable car station.

Alpine mountain landscape with rugged peaks and snow patches, showcasing the natural beauty of alpine environments. Perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and mountain flora lovers.
Alpine-garden-society-mountain-flora-hiking-trails-uk.

Geum montanum

Here the path was edged with Geum montanum.

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Pulsatilla vernalis

No more than 100 yards or so from the cable car building, I realised the quite coarse grass on the bank was dotted with Pulsatilla vernalis.

Wild alpine plants growing on a grassy mountainside, showcasing alpine gardening and flora.
Alpine pasqueflower blooming in dry grassland, showcasing white petals and vibrant yellow stamens, representative of alpine flowers cultivated by Alpine Garden Society members.
A beautiful white alpine flower with bright yellow stamens growing amidst dry grass in a mountain landscape.
Alyssum montanum, a hardy alpine flower, blooming with delicate purple petals in a rocky garden setting. Perfect for alpine and rock garden enthusiasts seeking low-maintenance plants.

We had a little time to take in the views, before the next cable car going down.

Alpine Garden Society mountain landscape with hikers and mountain biking enthusiasts in front of snow-capped peaks.
Alpine garden with snow-capped mountains and rugged terrain, showcasing alpine plants and mountain landscape, part of the Alpine Garden Society's focus on mountainous flora and gardening in high-altitude environments.
Majestic mountain landscape with snow-capped peaks and lush green slopes, showcasing the beauty of alpine gardens and mountain flora, ideal for nature and gardening enthusiasts.
Alpine mountain landscape with rocky peaks and lush green valleys, perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts and mountain flora lovers.

Before long we were back in Arabba, where we had time for a cold drink before the bus arrived to take us back to Corvara.

Alpine Garden Society building in a picturesque mountain village with a church, lush greenery, and alpine scenery, representing a centre for alpine plant enthusiasts and botanical gardens.

What a wonderful day !  We walked less than two kilometres in total as the path runs (though probably about three with all the zigzagging and exploring off the path to find flowers), and we spent about 5 hours travelling that distance.

In fact in the whole holiday we never walked more a route of than four miles (Santa Croce), though that’s as the crow flies, and not how the photographer meanders. And I should add the half-mile each way to the bus-stop / cable-car, and in the evening we were walking half a mile each way to the restaurant providing our evening meals.

A little later in the Year

There is definitely plenty more to find at Porta Vescovo.

Jiri Papousek posted some pictures on Facebook of a trip to the same location about a week later.  As well as most of the plants we saw, he and his companion climbed higher up the rocks (places we couldn’t get to) and saw white forms of Eritrichium nanum, Androsace alpina, and Androsace helvetica.

Not to mention that in two or three weeks time you would see all the things we found in profusion in 2022: Androsace obtusifolia, Doronicum, Erigeron uniflorus, Gentiana acaulis, Minuartia, Cerastium species, Papaver rhaeticum, Phyteuma globularifolium and P. hemisphaericum, Potentilla aurea, Salix herbacea, Saxifraga bryoides, S. exarata subsp moschata and S. paniculata, the lovely Sedum alpestre, Veronica aphylla and V. fruticans, and masses of Silene acaulis.

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