Desert Dandelion

Wildflower Species Types of Flowers Bigelow's Monkey Flower Brown-eyed Primrose Chia Chuparosa Creosote Bush Desert Chicory Desert Dandelion Desert Lupine Desert Purple Mat Fremont Pincushion Phacelia Popcorn Flower

Dandeliions are a ubiquitous part of the American landscape, with the desert Southwest no excetion to the rule.

The Desert Dandelion (Malacothrix californica) is a more geograhically limited native Southwest species, found in Southern California and Arizona. It is a member of the sunflower family (Asteraceae) and grows in harmony with other desert wildflowers.

As the flower matures into its bright yellow petals, an off-red center appears, giving it a distinct appearance.

Homeowners that find them an overwhelming presence in the yard can follow organic dandelion control practices to remove them.

© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels