Family: Asteraceae

This is a xeric (dry growing) genus of about 11 species native to western United States and Mexico. Plants are short-growing, perennial and annual plants. Yellow flowers appear spring through fall and are nectar rich. Plants reseed readily in the landscape. If resources are low (mainly, water), the perennial species will act like annuals and reseed a lot but die.

Plant in full to part sun, moderate to low water for our native species.

Flowers are nectar-rich and attract lots of butterflies, native bees, and other pollinating insects. Seeds are used by granivorous birds and other animals.

Plants are used medicinally.

Xanthisma is a Greek name meaning that which is dyed yellow.

Photo of Xanthisma spinulosum by Al Schneider, SEINET