SafePlants

Deinandra increscens: Grassland Tarweed

Deinandra increscens, commonly known as grassland tarweed, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the aster family (Asteraceae).

Considerations for Pets

• Some tarweeds, including Deinandra species, have sticky stems.
• Deinandra increscens is sometimes described as "hairy".

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Deinandra increscens (H.M. Hall ex D.D. Keck) B.G. Baldw.
• Family: Asteraceae (Aster family)
• Subspecies: Deinandra increscens subsp. increscens
• Synonym: Hemizonia increscens (implied based on text referencing both names and common name, confirmation needed). Also possibly Hemizonia increscens ssp. villosa Tanowitz, based on other extracted text.

Distribution and Habitat

• Deinandra increscens is endemic to California.
• It is found in central California, including Monterey and San Benito Counties.
• Its typical habitat includes grasslands, dry open hillsides, and rocky ridges.
• It is common in grassland areas throughout California.
• It is also found in coastal grasslands and sage scrub habitats.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Deinandra increscens is an annual forb/herb.
• It is a medium-sized plant.
• The Gaviota tarplant, also known as grassland tarweed, is a soft, hairy, gray-green plant that is 12-35 in.

Ecological Role

• The text suggests that some tarweed species might play a role in invasion resistance in California grasslands.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Birds interact with virgate tarweed.

Quirky Facts

• The plant's common name, "tarweed," hints at a sticky or resinous quality, though the text doesn't explicitly confirm this.