Kalmia microphylla

Alpine or Bog Laurel. This is one of many species in the Sierra that belongs to the heath family, Ericaceae. This family also includes blueberries, cranberries, manzanita, madrone, azaleas, and rhododendrons. Alpine Laurel grows at high elevations in wet meadows and is highly poisonous. Sheep and cattle herders of the 1800's experienced substantial die-offs of stock when the animals came upon it or any of its cousins, such as Mountain Heather or Labrador Tea. This is one of the only blooming shrubs I've found yet in the high country; I found lots growing along the shores of Elizabeth Lake, a couple miles from Tuolumne Meadows.