A Look at Gallatin Valley’s Early Blooming Trees & Flowers

In the spring season, we see various plants and trees blooming in the Gallatin Valley. However, some people may struggle to identify them. Knowing about the surroundings is crucial in appreciating nature. So, here's a quick guide to help you recognize the flora and fauna in the landscape.

Cherry Trees: Chokecherries are among the first trees to come out of dormancy in spring. They are early forage, excellent habitat and can be easily found around the valley. The shrub grows up to 30 feet (though it is usually closer to 10-15 feet in the Gallatin Valley) and has white flowers that appear a few weeks after their leaves pop. The fruit, which ripens in late summer, is a tiny red cherry that turns black when ripe. It can be found in riparian thickets, forests, pine and ash woodlands, rocky slopes, stony soil of grasslands, plains, valleys, and montane areas. Several species of bumblebees pollinate chokecherries.

Tulips: Tulips are a great example of pretty but tough. These are often some of the first local flowers you’ll see in markets and come in an astounding array of colors and shapes.

Daffodils: With their sunny demeanor and bright yellow trumpets, daffodils are the quintessential harbinger of spring. Their cheerful presence brings a sense of optimism to any garden and they’re a fun addition to pathways if you want to add some early color to your landscape.

Lilacs: Lilacs, brought to Montana by early homesteaders, are a definite symbol of spring for Montanans. There are more than 20 lilac species and numerous hybrids, none of which are native to North America but which are a homestead classic, often seen near older homes (they can live over 100 years) throughout the valley. Lilacs are well known for their incredible fragrance and for their quick and vigorous blooming during early summer. A clear indicator of spring in Montana is when lilac bushes begin to bloom, which can happen as early as May or as late as June, depending on your location.