Horkelia californica, commonly known as California Horkelia, is an evergreen perennial herb native to chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats, as well as open woodlands in California. It forms clumps with erect green stems that can vary in height from 10 centimeters to over a meter. The leaves of Horkelia californica are pinnate, up to 40 centimeters long, with hairy, rounded, toothed leaflets each up to 6 centimeters in length. Its inflorescence bears both solitary and clustered flowers, each with toothed bractlets and thick, pointed sepals. The flowers are characterized by five small white petals and bloom from April to July, offering a modest display.

This plant is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a suitable choice for native plant gardens, restoration projects, and xeriscaping. It is also used as ground cover or in border plantings. California Horkelia prefers full sun to part shade and can adapt to a range of water conditions, from low to high, but it does best in well-draining soils. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soils.CC BY-SA 4.0