Sairocarpus coulterianus (A.DC.) D.A.Sutton

Growth Habit

Sairocarpus coulterianus is an annual herb that grows an erect stem, which often clings to objects or other plants for support. The plant is mostly hairless, except for the terminal inflorescence, which can be quite woolly.

Leaf Characteristics

Its leaves are sparse and generally linear, and there is often a basal leaf rosette at the base of the stem.

Inflorescence and Flower Appearance

The mostly bare stem is topped by a raceme inflorescence holding white snapdragon flowers; these flowers are often tinted lavender or pink, particularly when they are newly opened.

Flower Size

Each flower is approximately one centimeter wide.

Native Range

This species is native to southern California and Baja California.

Habitat

In this range, it grows in desert shrublands, and in coastal hills and mountains, particularly in areas that have recently burned.