frostflowers

Frostflowers, also known as ice flowers or frost petals, are ephemeral ice formations that appear on plant stems or woody materials. They are created by a process called sublimation, where ice turns directly into water vapor without melting. As the frozen sap within a plant stem is pushed outwards by internal freezing, it creates delicate, ribbon-like structures of ice. These formations are most commonly observed during autumn and early winter, typically on crisp, cold mornings when temperatures are just below freezing. The conditions must be right for frostflowers to form: the plant's vascular tissues need to be moist, and the air temperature needs to be cold enough for freezing to occur, but not so cold that the sap freezes solid instantly. They are often found on species like white snakeroot, dittany, and wingstem. Frostflowers are fragile and can easily melt or be destroyed by wind or touch, making their observation a fleeting experience. Their appearance can vary in size and complexity, sometimes resembling petals or ribbons of intricately sculpted ice.