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(Malacothrix saxatilis)
Cliff Desertdandelion (Malacothrix saxatilis)
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George Williams
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
George Williams
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Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: George Williams | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: George Williams | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2020-12-25T10:12:07-08:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Malacothrix saxatilis, commonly known as Cliff Desertdandelion, is a perennial herb that is native to coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystems, as well as grasslands in Central and Southern California. It is typically found on rocky outcrops and slopes, often in areas with a Mediterranean climate characterized by wet winters and dry summers. This plant is adaptable to a range of elevations from sea level to the lower montane zones. It grows 30 to 60 centimeters tall from a rhizome and caudex unit, with a somewhat sprawling habit. The leaves of Malacothrix saxatilis are variable in size and shape, ranging from simple to lobed, and are typically gray-green in color, which helps in water conservation. The inflorescence is an array of flower heads lined with lance-shaped phyllaries, and the ray florets are 1 or 2 centimeters long, white in color, and bloom from late winter to early spring. The flowers are modest in showiness but can add a delicate texture to garden settings.
Cliff Desertdandelion is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, rocky soils, making it suitable for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used in restoration projects, as it is native to California’s unique ecosystems and can help maintain local biodiversity. In cultivation, it requires full sun exposure, minimal water once established, and well-draining soils. While it is not commonly found in traditional garden settings, its resilience and low maintenance make it an attractive choice for environmentally conscious gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0
Cliff Desertdandelion is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, rocky soils, making it suitable for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used in restoration projects, as it is native to California’s unique ecosystems and can help maintain local biodiversity. In cultivation, it requires full sun exposure, minimal water once established, and well-draining soils. While it is not commonly found in traditional garden settings, its resilience and low maintenance make it an attractive choice for environmentally conscious gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Subshrub
- Height: 2-5 feet
- Width: 3-6 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Fall, Summer, Winter
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden
Natural Habitat
Coastal sage scrub, chaparral ecosystems, and grasslands in Central and Southern California
Other Names
Common Names: Cliff Aster
Scientific Names: , Malacothrix saxatilis, Leucoseris saxatilis, Hieracium californicum, Leucoseris californica, Malacothrix saxatilis var. tenuissima, Sonchus californicus,
GBIF Accepted Name: Malacothrix saxatilis (Nutt.) Torr. & A.Gray