Not really a flower at all, frost flowers are delicate and intricate ice formations that occur in cold winter conditions, typically on the stems of certain plants, particularly those in the aster family (Asteraceae) such as the white crownbeard (Verbesina virginica) and the yellow ironweed (Verbesina helianthoides). These formations are not actual flowers in the traditional sense, but rather, they are created by the interaction of moisture in the plant’s stem and the freezing temperatures.

Here’s how frost flowers form:

1. Conditions: Frost flowers typically develop when the ground is still unfrozen, and the air temperature drops significantly below freezing, often during the late autumn or early winter. These conditions are essential for the formation of frost flowers.
2. Moisture source: The plants that produce frost flowers draw moisture from the ground, typically through their roots. Dittany, stinkweed and white crownbeard are the few native plants known to produce frost flowers, but scientists are unsure what makes these plants special. Perhaps their root systems are more active that time of year, or their stems rupture in just the right way to force the ribbons of sap. Whatever the reason, frost flowers only appear on the stems of a few species.
3. Freezing process: As the temperature drops, the plant’s stem acts as a conduit for moisture. The moisture is pulled up from the ground, and when it reaches the freezing air, it starts to freeze.
4. Ice crystal growth: The freezing moisture expands and forms delicate, ribbon-like ice structures that resemble petals or flower petals. These structures can take on intricate and beautiful shapes, resembling flowers, ribbons, or feathers. As more saps moves up, it forces the freezing stream of white ice crystals into ornate, folded ribbons that look like petals, puffs of cotton candy, or shredded tissue paper.
5. Fragile beauty: Frost flowers are incredibly delicate and can be easily damaged or destroyed. They are often found in the early morning when temperatures are at their lowest. Once the sun rises and the air warms, the frost flowers quickly melt, evaporating into the air.

Frost flowers are a rare and transient natural phenomenon that has captivated many people due to their intricate beauty. They are often found in natural areas where the specific plants that produce them grow, and they can be a captivating sight for those lucky enough to encounter them on a frosty winter morning. To find frost flowers, you should first find places where dittany, stinkweed and white crownbeard grow naturally. Dittany grows in southern, central and east-central Missouri counties, and white crownbeard can be found south of the Missouri River. Stinkweed, though, is not widespread.

When it starts to frost in the fall, plan to get out early and visit the places where you’ve seen frost-flower plants growing. You’ll have to “be in the right place at the right time,” which means there are even experienced naturalists who have never seen a frost flower in person.

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