Narrowleaf Mule-ears

(Wyethia angustifolia)

 

Mule-ears are the first substantial yellow flower in the spring,

Will Elder, NPS

 

Origin Of Genus Name: Wyethia is named for Nathaniel Wyeth, an early explorer of the American West.

Presidio Locations: Found in grassland and coastal prairie.

Range In State: Northern to central California.

Description: This native perennial species of the Sunflower Family has 3 inch yellow daisy-like flowers with 1-2 foot long, smooth, tapering leaves. One of the 'compass plants', there is a belief that their erect leaves always stand with their edges pointing north and south. Blooms March to May.

Native Californian Uses: The roots of Narrowleaf Mule-ears were pounded to produce a thick lather which was rubbed on the chest as cure for various lung problems.

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