Best time to travel to Greenland

Arctic Poppy and Purple Saxifrage in Greenland

The hardiest flowers in the world bloom in the freezing cold

Best time: July

Arctic Poppy and Purple Saxifrage

Kaffeklubben is a small island near the Northern shores of Greenland, and it's special because here you'll find probably the hardiest flowers in the world. Despite the fact that the weather conditions on this island are very harsh, and there are only about 30 days of summer throughout the year, there are two species of flowers that have managed to survive here. These are the Arctic Poppy and the Purple Saxifrage. These little plants grow together with v​arious mosses, liverworts, and lichens on the tough, rocky soil and manage to bloom at around -7°C. To see this natural wonder, you'll have to take part in a sponsored expedition with full equipment, otherwise, it's not physically possible.

Practical info

When can the Arctic Poppy and Purple Saxifrage be seen in Kaffeklubben, Greenland?

Kaffeklubben in Greenland is best visited during the summer season, especially in July, to have the opportunity to witness the rare sight of Arctic Poppy and Purple Saxifrage. During this time, weather conditions are tolerable, and sunlight is abundant. Outside of this period, Kaffeklubben's conditions become severe, and it is only accessible to researchers and explorers conducting scientific research. Show more

In which location of Greenland is Kaffeklubben situated?

Kaffeklubben, or the Coffee Club Island, also known as Murchison Island, is situated on the northern shore of Greenland, specifically at 83°40'N latitude and 29°50'W longitude. It is one of the most northern isles globally, and Murchison named it after his practice of stopping on the isle for coffee and biscuits during his artic expeditions. Show more

What adaptations have enabled the artcic Poppy and Purple Saxifrage to survive the harsh weather in Kaffeklubben?

The Arctic Poppy and Purple Saxifrage have developed mechanisms to survive the freezing Greenlandic climate. They grow in small cracks that enable them to possess proper foothold despite the strong winds. The Poppy and Saxifrage are low and small in size, reducing their exposure to extreme weather conditions while conserving heat. Additionally, they have small hairs on their leaves that serve as insulation. Show more

Aside from Arctic Poppy and Purple Saxifrage, what other particular plant species may be found on Kaffeklubben in Greenland?

Kaffeklubben Island in Greenland is home to various low-growing plant species besides the Arctic Poppy and Purple Saxifrage. Examples include Orange Lichen, Reindeer Moss, and Bearberry, among others. These plants have evolved unique features adapted to the harsh polar environment while playing an essential role in the Arctic's fragile ecosystem. Show more

Is it safe for visitors to explore Kaffeklubben Island in Greenland unaccompanied, or should they join an equipped sponsored expedition?

Due to Kaffeklubben Island's remote and harsh environment as well as its fragile ecosystem, visitors are not recommended to explore the island unaccompanied. Visitors can safely explore Kaffeklubben by joining a scientific research expedition or a sponsored trip accompanied by experienced guides and equipped with all necessary equipment. This ensures that they experience the unique beauty of Kaffeklubben Island while being safe and acting responsibly towards the fragile environment. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin