Adolphia californica, commonly known as California adolphia, is a deciduous shrub native to the coastal sage scrub and chaparral of northwestern Baja California and San Diego County, California, typically found at elevations below 1312 feet (400 meters). It is a rare species, often growing in dry, rocky soils on slopes and in canyons. This shrub reaches up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) in height and has a branching habit with dark green, thorny twigs and small, sparse, oval leaves. From December to April, California adolphia produces clusters of small, cream-colored flowers that are modest in appearance but attract native pollinators.

In cultivation, California adolphia is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it suitable for xeriscaping and restoration projects in its native range. It is also used as an ornamental in rock gardens and native plant landscapes. Due to its critically endangered status in California, it is not commonly available in the nursery trade, but when planted, it requires minimal water once established, well-drained soils, and full sun to part shade. Gardeners should be aware of its thorny branches when planting.CC BY-SA 4.0