1. *Mojave Pincushion – Chaenactis xantiana
(kee-NAK-tus zan-tee-AY-na )
Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower Family)
Native to: Deserts & desert hills/mountains of CA, OR, NV & AZ. Locally in Mojave Deserts & desert
side of San Gabriels; on sandy slopes in Chaparral, Pinyon-Juniper Woodland, Sagebrush Scrub,
between 1500 and 7000 feet.
annual wildflower
mature height: 1-2 ft. mature width: < 1 ft.
Erect annual wildflower with one or many stems. Basal leaves somewhat succulent; usually wither
away before/during flowering.
Foliage has a bright- to gray-green foliage depending on light,
water. Gray color is due to waxy white scales. Plant dies after setting seeds.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms spring to early summer, usually Mar-Jun. Tiny pale-pink to white flowers in
dense, flat heads resembling a pincushion. There may be many flowering heads per plant in the
garden setting. Very delicate and old-fashioned appearance.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: Most often used in desert-themed gardens. Appropriate for wildflower gardens.
Good choice for pollinator gardens. Does well in containers – consider pairing with other annuals
that like sandy soils like Phacelia campanularia, Malacothrix glabrata and other desert annuals.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native white-flowered wildflowers.
Attracts: Good habitat plant: provides nectar for pollinators and seeds for birds, small wildlife.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun to part-shade.
Well-drained; sandy soils are natural. Any local pH.
Needs good winter/spring water – then taper off when begins to bloom.
None needed.
Inorganic mulch (gravel) only; fine with no mulch.
Management:
Fairly easy to grow from seed.
Collect seeds or let self-sow in summer/fall.
Propagation: from seed: Sow in place in containers or ground – late fall/winter.
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 13
4/2/13
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