About 50[1]–70[2] The genus Parnassia, also known as grass of Parnassus or bog-stars, are flowering plants now placed in the family Celastraceae,[3][4] formerly classified in Parnassiaceae or Saxifragaceae.

The plants occur in arctic and alpine habitats, as well as in dune systems and fens, swamps, wet meadows, open seepage areas, moist woods, and across the Northern Hemisphere.

The flower has five white petals with light green venation.

There are five three-pronged sterile stamens, each tipped with drop-like false nectaries, which (along with the visual cue of veins) attract pollinating flies and bees.

[5] Parnassia glauca is considered to be an indicator species of fens in New York State.