Eriogonum deflexum var. deflexum

Flat-topped skeleton weed

Family: Polygonaceae · Type: annual · Native

Flat-topped skeleton weed is a California native annual found in desert regions in sandy habitats at elevations from 50 meters below sea level to 1,900 meters. Flowering throughout the entire year, this plant produces small, delicate flowers in flat-topped, spreading hemispheric clusters that can be quite distinctive. Growing with slender stems 0.5 to 5 decimeters tall, it develops whip-like branches that spread in an open, irregular pattern. Its flowers feature outer lobes that are cordate to ovate, creating intricate and delicate inflorescences that blend seamlessly with sandy desert landscapes. The plant's ability to bloom year-round and its unique flat-topped branch structure make it a resilient and adaptable desert dweller.

Habitat: Common. Sand

Bloom period: All year

Elevation: -50-1900 m

Bioregions: D

California counties: San Bernardino, Riverside, Inyo, Imperial, San Diego, Kern, Los Angeles, Mono, Tulare

Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, Jepson eFlora, Cal-IPC, and more.