Deerweed

(Lotus scoparius)

 

Deerweed on the dunes at Crissy Field.

Will Elder, NPS

 

Origin Of Genus Name: From the Greek "lotos," a term for clover-like plants.

Presidio Locations: Found throughout the dunes on sandy flats and brushy hills, particularly at Crissy Fiels and Lobos Creek dunes.

Range In State: California coast. The Presidio is the type locality for this species.

Description: This perennial native species of the Pea Family has small yellow flowers and is often shrubby. The stems are robust and the plant forms prostrate mats. The leaflets are well-spaced and are found in groups of three. Blooms June to August.

Native Californian Uses: The Ohlone used the fiberous foliage as building material for house thatching and as a decoction for coughs.

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