Description

Deerweed is found in coastal and mountainous areas throughout the state. It is a pioneer species, meaning that it quickly fills disturbed areas with dense stands that condition the soil for other plant species. Deerweed accomplishes this by fixing nitrogen, as do other members of the pea family, Fabaciae. Deerweed grows in an open, fountain form with numerous solid green leaves. The yellow bloom of a stand of deerweed is quite a sight, and is also appreciated by pollinators in the hot summer months. In the garden deerweed contributes to a natural, informal look, especially in the late summer when the plant goes largely dormant. Deerweed is a host plant for the acmon blue butterfly and many others.