SafePlants

Deinandra increscens: Grassland Tarweed

Deinandra increscens, commonly known as grassland tarweed, is a flowering plant species belonging to the aster family (Asteraceae). The name "tarweed" is generally used to describe plants in this group, though some tarweeds are classified within other genera.

Considerations for Pets

• The provided text mentions that Deinandra increscens has sticky stems.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Deinandra increscens (H.M. Hall ex D.D. Keck) B.G. Baldw.
• Common Name: Grassland Tarweed
• Family: Asteraceae (Aster family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Subspecies: Deinandra increscens subsp. increscens
• Synonym: Hemizonia increscens (implied by several name changes in text)
• Synonym (Subspecies): Hemizonia increscens ssp. villosa Tanowitz

Distribution and Habitat

• Deinandra increscens is endemic to California.
• It is a very common grassland species in California.
• Specific locations mentioned include central California (Monterey, Fresno, San Benito Counties) and Coastal Vandenberg Air Force Base, California.
• It grows in dry, open hillsides, rocky ridges, grasslands, and scrub habitats.
• It is also found in valley grassland and coastal grasslands, and areas with disturbed soils.

Ecological Role

• The text alludes to the changing composition of California grasslands, from perennial grasses to exotic annuals, and mentions tarweed's role in this context.
• It also refers to the plant's presence in areas with invasive species like yellow starthistle.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Deinandra increscens is described as an annual forb/herb.
• It is a dicot.
• It is described as a soft, hairy, gray-green plant.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The plant occurs amongst tarweed Hemizonia fasciculate and lupin Lupinus bicolor

Further Information

• CalPhotos is mentioned as a resource for images.