About Hoita strobilina (Hook. & Arn.) Rydb.
Hoita strobilina, (Hook. & Arn.) Rydb., is a rare legume species with the common names Loma Prieta leatherroot and Loma Prieta hoita.
Distribution
This plant is endemic to California, where it is only found in scattered populations in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Habitat
It grows in chaparral and woodland habitats of local mountains, most often on serpentine soil.
Growth Form
Hoita strobilina is a perennial herb that grows erect, reaching a maximum height close to one meter.
Leaf Characteristics
Its large leaves are divided into three leaflets, each of which can grow up to 8 centimeters long, and can range in shape from lance-shaped to nearly round.
Foliage Texture
The green above-ground plant tissue is typically glandular and covered in hairs.
Inflorescence
Its inflorescence is a raceme up to 13 centimeters long, which holds many pea-like flowers.
Flower Features
Each flower is purple, sometimes with white sections, and measures between one and two centimeters long.
Fruit Traits
The fruit produced by this plant is a dark brown or black, hairy, veiny legume pod.
