Leptosyne californica Play pronunciation

California tickseed is a low-growing annual wildflower native to California, Arizona, and northwestern Mexico, found in washes, plains, and hillsides, below 4,000 feet. It is upright, clump-forming, growing 6 to 12 inches tall and equally as wide, with showy, bright yellow daisy-like flowers that have both ray and disc florets. The leaves are dark green, linear,  growing 1-4 inches in length, and appear in clusters at the base of the plant. The erect, reddish leafless stems are topped with the yellow flowers from February to June. It is a member of the daisy family (Asteraceae). The genus name, Leptosyne, is derived from two Greek words: leptos, meaning slender, thin, or weak, and syne, meaning together or joined. The specific epithet californica means "of California."

It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained to dry sandy or loamy soils. It tolerates slightly acidic to alkaline soils. It is intolerant of clay soils. California tickseed is frost-tender and is hardy in zones 9b to 11a. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and will also help to prevent soil erosion in disturbed soils. Deadheading will encourage further flower production. During the winter, prune back the plant to the basal rosette. Propagated by seeds or division.

The flowers of the California tickseed attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, moths, flies, and bats. The plant may be used as an ornamental and is best planted as a border or in a desert, grassland, or woodland setting.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for aphids and spider mites.  May be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust in humid conditions.