Beautiful purple saxifrage (Saxifraga oppositifolia) is known as aupaluktunnguat in Inuktitut, one of Nunavut’s four official languages. This star-shaped flower is one of Canada’s northernmost wildflower species. It’s also one of the first signs of spring in the Arctic, where its speedy re-emergence after a harsh winter is symbolic of the hardy, determined nature of the region’s inhabitants.. It is the thirteenth coin in the Floral Emblems series. The Mintage is limited to 4,000. HST/GST exempt.

The Design:

The reverse design by Canadian artist Lisa Thomson-Khan features a colour portrait of the official floral emblem of the Nunavut, purple saxifrage. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.

Nunavut – Purple Saxifrage:

Nunavut was officially established on April 1, 1999. A year later, on May 1, 2000, the purple saxifrage was adopted as the official floral emblem of Nunavut.

Saxifraga is derived from the Latin words saxum, meaning “stone” or “rock,” and frango, meaning “to break.” This floral species commonly roots in rock fissures and crevices, where it gives the impression that it has split the stone.

Purple saxifrage flowers are edible — in fact, they’re part of a traditional diet in some communities where berries aren’t available. The stems and leaves are also used for tea, while the sweet blooms have been used (in moderation) to help relieve gastric problems.