Photo of the day: Snow lotus on South Inylchek glacier amazes Kyrgyzstanis

Mountaineer and guide Denis Budylo discovered a rare flower — the snow lotus (Saussurea involucrata) on the South Inylchek glacier, located at an altitude of over 4,000 meters above sea level. This high-altitude plant, listed in Kyrgyzstan’s Red Book of Endangered Species, grows in the Central Tien Shan near Pobeda and Khan Tengri peaks.

The snow lotus blooms in July and August, thriving on rocky slopes and ancient glacial moraines at elevations of 3,000–4,500 meters. Known for its medicinal properties, the plant is considered a symbol of purity and longevity. However, due to its limited range and the threat of extinction, it is listed in Kyrgyzstan’s Red Book.

Denis Budylo’s discovery has drawn the attention of environmentalists, mountaineers, and social media users.