San Diego Ambrosia

(Ambrosia pumila)

This rare perennial is also known as the San Diego ragweed. Found in Baja and far southern California, this species prefers open grasslands close to wetland areas, as well as floodplain habitat. Its particular native environment has been overrun by urbanization and residential development. This herb grows to about 1.5 feet in height, with fuzzy grey-green leaves divided into subsegments. Its inflorescent consists of male (staminate) and female (pistillate) flower heads. It reproduces vegetatively, rarely producing seeds.