Linanthus californicus (Hook. & Arn.) J. M. Porter & L. A. Johnson

Polemoniaceae

A perennial, woody member of the Phlox family, Linanthus californicus is found predominantly along the south-western edge of California. These plants are found growing mostly in scrub and forest habitats, but can also occur in chaparral. They are most obvious when in flower, which are open during the day, and are rosy pink to magenta.

The leaf tips of these plants are quite sharp, and, while not fully spines, are pointed enough to be painful if handled.