Gymnospermium is a genus in the Berberidaceae family with tubers that is found in central Asia.
Gymnospermium albertii (Regel) Takht is a spring ephemeral from the harsh climate of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, thus it is perfectly hardy and tolerant of snow cover as well as at least -10 °C unprotected in in full flower. The otherwise bright yellow flowers show deep red and even slightly purplish veins on the outside. Photo 1 shows a floral close-up by Arnold Trachtenberg, photos 2-4 document the floral stages from end of December to end of February of a plant cultivated by Martin Bohnet.
Gymnospermium altaicum - The first two views of the plant in flower were taken March & April 2003. This plant is very small and rather inconspicuous in bloom (although charming), thus it's difficult to get a good photo. The first photo was taken on March 29, 2003, showing the red, sideways-emerging stems that are less than 2" (5 cm) tall, and small bright yellow flowers. The plant and flowers were unharmed after a week and a half of ice, hail, snow, and pouring rain. The second photo is a worm's-eye view of the dainty flowers that are best observed up close. The last photo was taken spring 2002 of the foliage and spent flower stalks. Photos by Mark McDonough.
