Guide to Native and Invasive Plants Storke Ranch Vernal ... - Cram

Guide to 

Native and Invasive Plants 

of the 

Storke Ranch 

Vernal Pool Open Space 

Managing Vernal Pools in the 

Greater Santa Barbara Area 

K Kelly Hildner, Ph.D.

Guide to Native and Invasive Plants of the Storke Ranch 


Managing Vernal Pools in the Greater Santa Barbara Area 

K Kelly Hildner, Ph.D. 

Cite as: 

“Hildner, K. K. Guide to Native and Invasive Plants of the Storke Ranch Vernal Pool Open Space: Managing Vernal 

Pools in the Greater Santa Barbara Area. Santa Barbara, CA: The Coastal Fund of UC Santa Barabara. 2009.”

Guide to Native and Invasive Plants of the Storke Ranch 


Managing Vernal Pools in the Greater Santa Barbara Area 

Funding 

This project was made possible with funding from the Coastal Fund of the University of California Santa 

Barbara, the Southern California Wetlands Recovery Project, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and support 

from the Storke Ranch Homeowner’s Association.

Acknowledgements 

Many thanks to John Knapp, Mary Carroll, Dieter Wilken, Lisa Stratton, Sean Kelly, and Mauricio Gomez for 

helpful comments on an earlier draft of this document. Ideas for the layout and design of this guide were inspired 

by the document “Guide to Native and Invasive Streamside Plants: Restoring Habitats in Ventura County 

& along the Santa Clara River in Los Angeles County”, so thanks are due to its designers and authors. Thanks 

also to David Hubbard who lended his valuable expertise to the restoration of the Storke Ranch vernal pools and 

to the planning of this guide. And thanks to the many interns and community volunteers who dedicated their 

time to the restoration efforts. The Storke Ranch Homeowners’ Association, Community Environmental Council, 

Growing Solutions Restoration Education Institute, and Kitson Landscape Management are also gratefully 

acknowledged for their support of restoration projects at Storke Ranch. 

Cliff swallows collecting mud from a restored Storke Ranch vernal pool. 

Photos, text, and layout 

K Kelly Hildner 

2009 

Although the author has made every attempt to ensure that the information contained in this publication is current, 

accurate and reliable, neither the author nor the funding agencies warrant or guarantee the currency, accuracy or 

reliability of the information contained in this publication. The author and funding agencies of this guide do not accept 

responsibility or liability for any injury or damage resulting from the use of, reliance on, or effect of any information or 

product specified in this publication.

Table of Contents 

About the Author..........................................vi 

In this Guide....................................................... 1 

Cal-IPC statewide impact rating......................................... 1 

Plant Descriptions............................................................... 1 

Introduction..................................................... 2 

Vernal Pools......................................................................... 2 

Invasive Species.................................................................. 3 

General weeding guidance/timing....................................... 3 

Solarization................................................................... 4 

Hand weeding............................................................... 5 

Herbicides..................................................................... 7 

Revegetation....................................................................... 8 

Monitoring and Maintenance.............................................. 8 

The Natives.......................................................... 9 

Monocots 

Barley, California........................................................ 10 

Barley, Meadow........................................................... 11 

Blue-Eyed Grass.......................................................... 12 

Bulrush, California.......................................................13 

Bulrush, Prairie ........................................................... 14 

Lemmon’s Canarygrass............................................... 15 

Pacific Foxtail.............................................................. 16 

Purple Needlegrass...................................................... 17 

Rush, Brown-Headed................................................... 18 

Rush, Western.............................................................. 19 

Saltgrass....................................................................... 20 

Spikerush, Common..................................................... 21 

Spikerush, Needle........................................................ 22 

Tall Flatsedge............................................................... 23 

Dicots 

California Water Starwort............................................ 24 

Coast Allocarya (Coast Popcorn Flower).................... 25 

Coyote-Thistle............................................................. 26 

Coyote-Thistle, Prickly................................................ 27 

Gumplant..................................................................... 28 

Red Maids.................................................................... 29 

Short Seed Waterwort................................................. 30 

Slender Aster................................................................ 31 

Smooth Spike-Primrose (Pygmy Epilobium).............. 32

Southern Tarplant........................................................ 33 

Water Pygmyweed....................................................... 34 

Woolly Marbles........................................................... 35 

The Invasives.................................................... 36 

Monocots 

Barley, Mediterranean & Foxtail................................. 37 

Bermuda Grass............................................................ 38 

Harding Grass.............................................................. 39 

Italian Rye Grass......................................................... 40 

Pampas Grass & Jubata Grass..................................... 41 

Rabbitfoot Grass.......................................................... 42 

Ripgut Brome.............................................................. 43 

Smilograss.................................................................... 44 

Wild Oats..................................................................... 45 

Dicots 

Australian Saltbush...................................................... 46 

Bindweed..................................................................... 47 

Brass Buttons............................................................... 48 

Bristly Ox Tongue........................................................ 49 

Bur-Clover....................................................................50 

Curly Dock................................................................... 51 

Cut-Leaved Geranium.................................................. 52 

English Plantain........................................................... 53 

Fennel.......................................................................... 54 

Filaree; Broad Leaf, Redstem, and Whitestem........... 55 

Hyssop Loosestrife...................................................... 56 

Mustard; Black, Field, & Mediterranean Hoary.......... 57 

Prickly Lettuce............................................................. 58 

Scarlet Pimpernel (Poor-man’s Weatherglass)............. 59 

Sheep Sorrel................................................................ 60 

Sowthistle; Perennial, Prickly, & Annual.................... 61 

Vetch............................................................................ 62 

Wild Radish................................................................. 63 

Plant Table....................................................... 64 

Resources........................................................... 70 

Plants.................................................................................. 70 

Granting Agencies..............................................................70 

Permits............................................................................... 71 

Glossary............................................................. .72 

References........................................................ 74 

Index: Plants by name................................ 76

vi 

About the Author 

K Kelly Hildner earned a B.A. in ecology from UC San Diego and a Ph.D. in conservation 

biology from UC Santa Cruz. Her dissertation research focused on the importance of genetic 

variability to physiological fitness in natural populations of pocket gophers. She has taught 

courses in and consulted on projects involving Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and 

their environmental applications, and she spent several years as a research associate at NOAA 

Fisheries studying the economic costs of salmonid habitat restoration. 

Photo by Lisa Balch 

In 2003, Hildner and her husband purchased a home in the Storke Ranch housing complex. 

There she became interested in the protected vernal pool habitat in the center of the development, 

which she noticed was being overrun by weeds. She consulted the literature and experts in 

the area to find out more about vernal pools and their associated plants. In 2004, she began 

organizing community work parties in an effort to control invasive species in the Storke Ranch 

open space. Starting in 2005, with the help of local vernal pool expert, David Hubbard, Hildner 

began planning community based projects to restore and enhance vernal pools and surrounding 

upland habitats at Storke Ranch. She has since planned and managed several small projects 

including the creation/restoration of two vernal pools. This guide was created to educate the 

Storke Ranch Homeowner’s Association and other land managers and restoration practitioners 

about the maintenance of vernal pools and their surrounding grassland habitats.

In this Guide 

Information in this guide is provided to help protect vernal pools and their surrounding grassland habitats. The 

“Introduction” section provides a brief introduction to vernal pools followed by general information about 

invasive plants and some general techniques for how to remove them. This section includes brief comments 

about revegetation and monitoring. 

The introduction is followed by two sections containing descriptions of specific plants. “The Natives” section 

contains descriptions and photos of some of the native plants found in and around vernal pools at Storke Ranch. 

This section includes a notation as to whether the species is locally rare. Locally rare species are those that are 

listed as species of local concern in Santa Barbara County by the Central Coast Center for Plant Conservation 

(Wilken, 2007). “The Invasives” section contains descriptions and photos of some of the common weeds found 

in and around vernal pools. This section includes the California Invasive Plant Council (Cal-IPC) statewide 

impact rating, if applicable (see below), and removal tips for each species. The plants in each section are 

organized by major grouping (monocot vs. dicot), and within each grouping they are arranged alphabetically by 

common name. An index is provided (page 76). 

Cal-IPC statewide impact rating 

The California Invasive Plant Council statewide impact rating 

for each invasive species is provided in this guide. The Cal-IPC 

Invasive Plant Inventory categorizes non-native invasive plants 

that threaten the state’s wildlands. The inventory categorizes 

plants as High, Moderate, or Limited, reflecting the level of 

each species’ negative ecological impact in California. In this 

categorization, even Limited species are invasive and should 

be of concern to land managers. The ratings represent the 

cumulative statewide impacts of each species. Therefore, a plant 

whose statewide impacts are categorized as Limited may have 

more severe impacts in a particular region. 

For more information on the rating system, visit the Cal-IPC 

website at www.Cal-ipc.org. Ratings can change over time as 

plants are re-evaluated. For the latest information, visit the Cal- 

IPC website. 

 

Fennel has been categorized as an invasive species 

with high ecological impact by Cal-IPC 

Plant Descriptions 

Plant descriptions in this guide are general and intended for a lay 

audience. An expert should be consulted when there is any doubt 

in the plant identification. In some cases, notations are provided 

where native and non-native plants at Storke Ranch could be 

confused, and some diagnostic characteristics are provided where 

this was feasible without getting too technical. A glossary of 

terms is provided (page 72).

Introduction 

Vernal Pools 

Vernal pools are seasonally flooded landscape depressions underlain by impermeable soils. What makes these 

areas special is their unusual hydrology, which involves flooding during portions of the fall and winter followed 

by desiccation in the summer. Only plants and animals adapted to this drastic wet-dry cycle can survive over 

time in these habitats. For this reason, vernal pools typically support an abundance of rare, threatened, or 

endangered species. 

Unfortunately, vernal pools are extremely vulnerable to destruction because they typically occur on flat, easily 

developed, easily accessible land. In fact, according to some estimates, over 90% of the vernal pool habitat in 

California has already been destroyed (Keeler-Wolf et al. 1998). Consequently, vernal pools are thought to be 

among the most threatened wetland ecosystems in the state (Stone 1990; Keeler-Wolf et al. 1998). At least 90% 

of the vernal pools in the Santa Barbara area have been destroyed (Ferren et al. 1998). 

According to the California Department of Fish and Game, the majority of the remaining pools in the Santa 

Barbara region appear to be in some jeopardy, with the most imperiled being in the coastal zone. Negative 

impacts affecting vernal pools in this region include long-term intensive grazing, road construction, off-highway 

vehicle use, housing development, military operations, invasion of non-native plant species, and feral pig 

damage (Keeler-Wolf et. al 1998). 

This guide is intended for private and public landowners and agencies that manage lands containing vernal 

pools. The guide was created based on the plants present in the Storke Ranch vernal pool open space in Goleta, 

California, but the information is also applicable to other vernal pools in the region. The vernal pools at Storke 

Ranch are in an open space area in the center of the Storke Ranch housing development. Two of the pools were 

restored beginning in the fall of 2006 and now support many species of local concern in Santa Barbara. 

The restored south vernal pool at Storke Ranch in 3 seasons: winter, spring, and summer.

Invasive Species 

Invasive species are introduced species 

that out-compete native species for space 

and resources. Invasives crowd out native 

plants and in some cases alter conditions 

in their immediate vicinity, making the 

habitat less suitable or wholly unsuitable 

for native plants and habitat dependent 

wildlife. Many invasives establish 

themselves and thrive under disturbed 

conditions. In this guide the terms 

invasive species, invasives, and weeds will 

be used interchangeably. 

General weeding guidance/timing 

In general, because of their harsh hydrologic regime, vernal pools are largely resistant to weed invasion. The 

intensity of invasion pressure increases from the deepest part of the vernal pool to the shallowest part, with 

upland areas lacking the resistance to invasion that is provided within the flooded basin. Repeated dry years, 

during which the duration of flooding is limited, will result in increased invasion pressure within vernal pools. 

Vernal pools should be checked at least annually for invasive species. As vernal pools dry in the spring, plants 

flower in concentric rings around the pool. The best time for weed control is in the spring as the pools begin 

to dry. Weed around the pool while there is still some moisture left in the soil but before the plants set seed. 

As the pool dries, check around the edges of the pool for weeds such as rabbitfoot grass, burclover, Italian 

rye grass, hyssop loosestrife, curly dock, English plantain, ripgut brome, common brassbuttons, cut-leaved 

geranium, filaree, and vetch. If soil moisture levels are still high, these weeds can generally be removed by 

hand pulling or with the help of a small trowel. 

Care should be taken to prevent damage to vernal pools during weeding activities. In general, select the weed 

control method that creates the least disturbance. Limit the trampling of native plants, and avoid compacting 

the soil as much as possible during weed control activities. 

One of the best methods of controlling weeds is to prevent them from being introduced and spread in the first 

place. To prevent introduction and spread of weeds, limit disturbance, control weeds in surrounding areas, 

and educate neighbors and the public about weeds and how they are spread. Remove seeds from clothing and 

equipment before entering vernal pool areas. 

Some general weeding techniques are outlined below. The Invasives section of this guide provides more 

detailed information about some of the common weeds in and around vernal pools along with common control 

methods. Refer to that section for specifics on individual plants.

Solarization 

In the context of this guide, solarization refers to the killing 

of weeds using black plastic. Solarization kills weeds 

by heating and essentially cooking the plants while also 

depriving them of the sunlight needed for photosynthesis. 

Effectiveness/selectivity 

Solarization is most effective on annual plants and is most 

effective during the seedling stage. Generally speaking, 

solarization is a non-discriminating weeding technique and 

will kill most plants under the plastic. Hence, solarization 

should typically be used when native plants are not present 

or a clean slate is desired. Solarization for relatively 

short periods of time (3-6 weeks, depending on weather 

conditions), however, will generally only kill annual plants 

and not perennials. Therefore, solarization can be an 

effective technique for selectively killing invasive annual 

grasses and forbs surrounding perennial native plants such as 

common spikerush (Eleocharis macrostachya). 

Solarizing weeds with black plastic. 

Technique and timing 

Black plastic for solarization can be purchased at hardware stores or irrigation supply stores and typically comes 

in rolls of various sizes including 100ft x 20ft, 50ft x 20 ft, and 100ft x 10ft. Also needed for solarization are 

soil staples and sandbags. Six inch long metal soil staples that are 1.25 inches wide and sandbags that are ½ to 

¾ full of sand can be used to secure the plastic to the ground. Solarization is most effective on seedlings and 

is best performed when new weed seedlings have sprouted after the first rains of the season. Approximately 

4 weeks after the first soaking rains of the season, once the weeds have sprouted, remove material that will 

prevent the plastic from lying flat on the ground, place the black plastic over the area to be weeded, and staple 

the plastic to the ground. For best results, fold the edge of the plastic under so the soil staples will hold two 

layers of plastic, and staple approximately every 4 feet. If the ground is hard, use a mallet to hammer the 

staples all the way into the ground so the plastic is firmly attached to the surface. Use sandbags to weight the 

plastic down so that it will stay down during heavy wind events. For a 2,000 sq ft sheet of plastic, generally at 

least 20 sandbags are needed. Place them at the corners, along the edges and down the middle of the sheet. 

Securing black plastic with soil staples. 

The amount of time needed to effectively kill weeds with 

solarization depends on the weather conditions and the 

resiliency of the weeds. Hot, sunny weather will result in 

faster, more effective solarization. Young, tender weeds 

will generally be killed within 3-4 weeks under these 

weather conditions. If the weather is cooler and cloudier, 

a complete kill may take 6 to 8 weeks or longer. Simply 

remove sandbags and staples from a corner of the plastic 

and look underneath to see if the weeds have died. When 

the weeds are completely brown (no green or bright yellow 

remaining), solarization is complete.

For the best weed control, ideally several rounds of solarization should be performed in order to remove as 

much of the weed seed bank as possible. After killing the weeds, uncover the area (ideally use the plastic on an 

adjacent area in need of weeding) and allow a new batch of weed seedlings to sprout (typically approximately 

4 weeks after a soaking rain event). Then repeat the solarization. If possible, continue this process for several 

cycles before planting native plants. 

Tip: If you would like to perform solarization for weed control but the weather is not providing you with 

timely rains to sprout the weeds, consider using irrigation to induce the weeds to sprout. 

Note: Black plastic vs. clear plastic. Some practitioners recommend the use of clear plastic for 

solarization. In this geographic area, it appears that black plastic is much more effective than clear plastic. 

In some trials in Ojai, California, weeds continued to thrive under clear plastic but were killed under black 

plastic (D. Hubbard, pers. com.). Tests conducted by the Cheadle Center for Biodiversity and Ecological 

Restoration in Santa Barbara also found better weed control under black plastic, even though temperatures 

were higher under clear plastic, because black plastic prevents photosynthesis (Lisa Stratton, pers. com.). 

Hand weeding 

Hand weeding is the removal of invasive plants by 

manual means such as hand-pulling or using a tool 

such as a shovel, mattock, hoe, or Weed Wrench. 


Hand weeding is recommended for areas where 

invasives need to be removed from amongst native 

plants. The selectivity of hand weeding varies 

depending on the method/tool used and the amount of 

caution used by the practitioner. To be most effective, 

hand weeding should remove weeds before they set 

seed and remove the entire weed including all root 

material. 

Hand weeding is generally easier and more effective 

with plants that have shallow, fibrous root systems. 

Hand weeding of plants that have large taproots, 

bulbs, or rhizomes can be quite difficult, as removing 

all root material in these cases may not be possible 

without extensive soil disturbance. Because invasive 

species tend to thrive on disturbed soils, soil 

disturbance should be minimized as much as possible. 

Interns hand weeding a vernal pool edge.

Community volunteers hand weeding curly dock from a Storke Ranch vernal pool. 


The most effective technique for hand weeding depends on many factors including the type of weed to be 

removed, the texture and moisture level of the soil, and the proximity of native species. 

In general, the method that removes the root system with the least amount of soil disturbance should be 

employed, as soil disturbance can trigger soil seed banks and favor invasive species expansion. Pulling 

generally works well for annual and immature plants and can be done either by hand or with the help of a tool 

such as a trowel or shovel. A Weed Wrench (www.weedwrench.com) can be used for larger plants with strong, 

woody stems. Under certain soil moisture and texture conditions, Weed Wrenches are effective at removing 

curly dock (Rumex crispus), a common vernal pool weed, once the seed stalks have formed. Trial and error is 

necessary to determine whether the conditions are favorable. 

If it is not possible to pull out the plant with its root system, cutting the plant before it sets seed may provide 

an effective means of controlling its spread. Above ground plant parts can be cut with a variety of different 

tools including pruners, shovels, mattocks, and weed whips. Cutting of some plants may encourage numerous 

resprouts that can quickly flower and set seed. Research the plant before cutting and/or follow up repeatedly to 

ensure effective control. 

Timing of weed control depends on the timing of seed set for the various species. This timing depends a great 

deal on annual weather conditions. Weeds that are flowering should be removed before they can set seed. 

Properly dispose of the plant material to ensure that the weeds don’t spread. Some plants, such as Bermuda 

grass, can re-root themselves if plant material is left in contact with the soil.

Herbicides 

Herbicides are chemicals designed to kill plants. The local agricultural commissioner’s office must be contacted 

to obtain an Operator ID number before purchasing or applying herbicides for any use other than residential. 

Herbicides can be effective at killing weeds with a minimal amount of labor; however, extreme care must be 

taken in applying herbicides in natural areas, as the chemicals could seriously harm adjacent native plants or 

contaminate soil or water sources. 


The effectiveness and selectivity of herbicides depends on the type of herbicide used, the application method, 

and the target plant. Only herbicides that are approved for aquatic use should be used in and around vernal 

pools. Many herbicides are restricted from use in aquatic habitats because of potential danger to fish and 

amphibians. At Storke Ranch, the Coastal Development Permit for the East Vernal Pool Restoration Project 

stipulates that herbicides shall not be used within the vernal pools or within the 10-20 foot buffer around 

the pools. Before using herbicides in any vernal pool area, check to see whether any such restrictions are in 

place. Herbicides should be applied by a licensed qualified applicator. The California Department of Pesticide 

Regulation (DPR) is responsible for examining and licensing qualified applicators and for certifying pesticide 

applicators that use or supervise the use of restricted pesticides (including herbicides). For more information, 

visit www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/license/currlic.htm. All pesticide applicators must wear appropriate personal 

protective equipment. 


The herbicide application technique used at Storke Ranch has involved foliar spray with a backpack sprayer 

using low pressure to avoid spray drift that could damage neighboring plants. This method should only be used 

when there is no wind. The primary target species for herbicide application at Storke Ranch has been Bermuda 

grass (Cynodon dactylon). The most effective times for herbicide application for this species are the fall and 

spring. 

Contact the local Agricultural Commissioner’s office or a licensed pest control advisor for information on 

current best management practices for herbicide application.

Revegetation 

When the removal of invasive species will leave 

extensive areas of bare ground, revegetation 

with native plants will help speed the recovery 

of the habitat and prevent renewed weed 

invasion. Consult with a restoration specialist 

to create a plan for revegetation. To maintain 

the genetic integrity of plant populations, it 

is important to use locally collected seed for 

habitat restoration and revegetation. 

Planting nursery stock around a vernal pool at Storke Ranch. 

Monitoring and Maintenance 

Regardless of the technique used for weed control, monitoring and maintenance are always necessary to 

ensure effectiveness. Check the habitat regularly to see how effective the weed control treatment was, to 

determine whether follow up weeding is required, and to determine whether the treatment had any unintended 

consequences. 

Remnant natural habitats, such as the ones at Storke Ranch, face continuing threats and need to be actively 

monitored and maintained to prevent habitat degradation. At Storke Ranch, the vernal pool habitats have 

been protected in perpetuity by an open space easement with the City of Goleta. Nonetheless, the habitat 

faces ongoing threat from weed invasion. Care should be taken to prevent the dispersal of weed seeds into the 

vernal pools and among protected areas. The habitat should be checked at least quarterly for weed invasions 

by a qualified biologist, and control activities should be scheduled as needed. More frequent monitoring and 

maintenance will result in more effective control if weeds can be prevented from setting any seed. This will 

translate into reduced maintenance costs over the long term.

Native Species 

 

The Natives 

Following are profiles for some of the primary species 

found in and around the Storke Ranch vernal pools. 

Each profile includes basic identification information 

including the common name, scientific name, and 

family of the plant along with whether the plant is 

rare in Santa Barbara County according to the Central 

Coast Center for Plant Conservation (Wilken, 2007). 

There are one or more photos for each species, 

followed by a verbal description of the plant and its 

habitat. 

The plants are organized by major grouping (monocot 

vs. dicot), and within each grouping they are arranged 

alphabetically by common name. Monocots and 

dicots are separated by the number of cotyledons 

(seed leaves) in the embryo; monocots have one and 

dicots have two. Monocots include grasses, rushes, 

and sedges. These plants have parallel major leaf 

veins and flower parts in multiples of three. Dicots 

in contrast have net-like leaf veins and flower parts in 

multiples of four or five. 

Native plants in a Storke Ranch vernal pool 

The basic format of each native plant profile is as 

follows: 

Common Name 

Scientific Name: 

Rare in Santa Barbara County 

Family 

Photo(s) 

Description: 

Habitat:

10 


Barley, California 

Scientific Name: Hordeum branchyantherum ssp. californicum 

Rare in Santa Barbara County No 

Poaceae 

Description: California barley is a tufted perennial bunchgrass with slender stems. California barley is shorter 

and more spreading than meadow barley (H. brachyantherum ssp. brachyantherum). The central spikelet 

glumes are generally spreading with age, and the lemma awn is up to 0.3 inches (7.5 mm). 

Habitat: Meadows, pastures, streambanks;

Native Species 11 

Barley, Meadow 

Scientific Name: Hordeum brachyantherum ssp. branchyantherum 


Poaceae 

Description: Meadow barley is a tufted perennial bunchgrass with generally robust stems. The flowerhead 

(panicle) is a narrow, flattened spike, 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) long that breaks off in pieces from the top down 

at maturity. Leaves are green to bluish green, 0.08 to 0.4 inches (2 to 9 mm) wide. They may be primarily basal 

or extend up and down the stem. Meadow barley is upright, while its closest relative, California barley (H. 

brachyantherum ssp. californicum), is shorter and more spreading. The central spikelet glumes are generally 

straight with age, and the lemma awn is up to 0.2 inches (4.5 mm). 

Habitat: Meadows, pastures, streambanks;

12 


Blue-Eyed Grass 

Scientific Name: Sisyrinchium bellum 


Iridaceae 

Description: Blue-eyed grass is a perennial herb in the iris family that grows up to 2 feet (64 cm) tall. Flowers 

are deep bluish purple to blue-violet and 0.4 to 0.7 inches (10.5 -17 mm) in diameter. Flowers: March to May. 

Plants are dormant in the summer. 

Habitat: Common; found in open, generally moist, grassy areas and woodlands; < 7,900 feet (2,400 m).


Bulrush, California 

Scientific Name: Schoenoplectus californicus 

Scirpus californicus (previous name) 


Cyperaceae 

Description: California bulrush is a rhizomatous perennial sedge 6.6 to 13 feet (200-400 cm) tall. It has tall 

thin (

14 


Bulrush, Prairie 

Scientific Name: Bolboschoenus maritimus 

Scirpus maritimus (previous name) 


Cyperaceae 

leaf-like bracts 

Description: Prairie bulrush is a rhizomatous perennial sedge 2.6 to 5 feet (80-150 cm) tall. It has leafy, erect, 

sharply 3-angled stems roughly 0.1 to 0.3 inches (3-8 mm) wide. Leaves are generally borne along the stem. 

The inflorescence has 4-many spikelets, 0.4 to 1.2 inches (10-30 mm), usually 0.28 to 0.3 (sometimes 0.2) 

inches (7-8 (sometimes 5) mm) wide, often in one dense cluster at branch tips with 2-3 leaf-like bracts that 

extend far beyond the inflorescence. 

Habitat: Marshes;


Lemmon’s Canarygrass 

Scientific Name: Phalaris lemmonii 

Rare in Santa Barbara County Yes 

Poaceae 

Description: Lemmon’s canarygrass is an annual grass 8-30 inches tall. The 1.6 to 4.7 inch (4-12 cm) 

inflorescences are interrupted at the base. Spikelet glumes are 0.2 to 0.3 inches (5-7 mm), with veins with short, 

stiff hairs; the upper lemma is 0.16 to 0.3 inches (4-5 mm), lanceolate-ovoid, swollen, with spreading hairs and 

a smooth tip. 

Habitat: Generally moist areas, shrubland, woodland;

16 


Pacific Foxtail 

Scientific Name: Alopecurus saccatus (A. howellii) 


Poaceae 

Inflated upper 

sheath 

Description: Pacific foxtail is a tufted annual grass 4-16 inches tall. The upper sheaths are inflated, and the 

anthers are orange. 

Habitat: Vernal pools and moist, open meadows below 2,300 feet (700 m) elevation.


Purple Needlegrass 

Scientific Name: Nassella pulchra 


Poaceae 

Description: Purple needlegrass is a tufted perennial bunchgrass. Stems are 12-39 inches (3-10 dm). Leaves 

are tough with blades 0.03 to 0.14 inches (0.8-3.5 mm) wide. The inflorescence is an open panicle 7 to 24 inches 

(18-60 cm). Spikelet glumes are not quite equal length, 0.47 to 0.75 inches (12-19 mm); the lemma is evenly 

hairy, becoming smooth on the veins. Awns are 1.5 to 4 inches (38-100 mm), strongly bent twice, with the 

distal segment straight. 

Habitat: Oak woodland, chaparral, grassland;

18 


Rush, Brown-Headed 

Scientific Name: Juncus phaeocephalus 


Juncaceae 

long stigmas 

Description: Brown-headed rush is a rhizomatous, perennial rush growing 10-30 inches tall. The stems and 

leaves are flat. The inflorescence has 1 to many dark brown flower clusters. Each flower has 6 stamens and 

long stigmas that stick out of the flowers. 

Habitat: Moist places,


Rush, Western 

Scientific Name: Juncus occidentalis 


Juncaceae 

Description: Western rush is a clump forming perennial rush, 6-24 inches tall. It has many, narrow 0.04 to 0.06 

inch (1-1.5 mm) wide, flat, basal leaves. The inflorescence is generally open, has 5-50 flowers, and is 0.4 to 2.8 

inches (1-7 cm). Flowers: spring to early summer. 

Habitat: Moist areas

20 


Saltgrass 

Scientific Name: Distichlis spicata var. spicata 


Poaceae 

Description: Saltgrass is a native rhizomatous perennial grass 4 to 16 inches high that, aside from the 

inflorescence, looks superficially similar to Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon), an invasive species. Saltgrass 

often forms dense colonies. Saltgrass can survive in saline soils and secretes visible salt crystals on leaf blades 

and stems. 

Habitat: Salt marshes; moist, alkaline areas; < 3,280 feet (1,000 m).


Spikerush, Common 

Scientific Name: Eleocharis macrostachya 


Cyperaceae 

Description: Common spikerush is a perennial herb, 4-28 inches (5-10 dm) tall that spreads by rhizomes. 

Stems are round and leaves are loosely sheathing with a purplish base, becoming straw-colored above. 

Inflorescence is a 0.2 to 1 inch (5-25 mm) spikelet of 10-many flowers, not much wider than the stem. Style is 

2-branched. Fruit is yellowish brown and 0.06 to 0.1 inches (1.5-2.5 mm), obovate, and strongly 2-sided. 

Habitat: Marshes, ponds, vernal pools, and ditches;

22 


Spikerush, Needle 

Scientific Name: Eleocharis acicularis 


Cyperaceae 

Description: Needle spikerush is a grass-like, rhizomatous, perennial herb 0.8 to 6 inches (2-15 cm) tall. 

Leaves are needle-like with pale reddish basal sheaths. The inflorescence is a more or less linear spikelet 0.1 

to 0.3 inches (3-7 mm). Style is 3-branched. Fruit is dull yellow to white and 0.03 to 0.04 inches (0.7-1 mm), 

weakly 3-sided and elliptic to obovate. 

Habitat: Marshes, meadows, riverbanks, vernal pools, in sagebrush scrub to lodgepole-pine forest;


Tall Flatsedge 

Scientific Name: Cyperus eragrostis 


Cyperaceae 

4-8 bracts/inflorescence 

Umbrella sedge (invasive species) 

Description: Tall flatsedge is a perennial to 3 ft tall with 3-angled or round stems. Leaves are flat or v-shaped. 

Inflorescences have 4-8 bracts and are composed of 20-70 flat, oblong spikelets in spheric heads. Note: there is 

an invasive horticultural sedge (umbrella sedge) that could be confused with this species; the invasive has many 

bracts per inflorescence. 

Habitat: Moist places, vernal pools, stream banks, and ditches, 0 to 3,000 feet (0 to 700 m).

24 


California Water Starwort 

Scientific Name: Callitriche marginata 


Callitrichaceae 

Description: Water starwort is a delicate, mat-like plant with tangled stems that grow up to 3 inches long. It is 

found in water or mud. In vernal pools, leaves often float on the surface, attached to threadlike stems. 

Habitat: Often in vernal pools, submersed or stranded; < 5,000 feet (1,500 m). Found in vernal flats in coastal 

areas in Isla Vista and Ellwood Mesa.


Coast Allocarya (Coast Popcorn Flower) 

Scientific Name: Plagiobothrys undulatus 


Boraginaceae 

Description: Coast allocarya is a spreading to erect, sparsely short-strigose (with stiff, straight, sharp hairs 

parallel to the surface) annual herb. Stems are 3-14 inches long. Leaves are borne on the stems. Inflorescence 

pedicels are inconspicuous, generally 0 to 0.04 inches (0-1 mm). the ring of sepals (calyx) is more or less 

0.08 inches (2 mm) and the ring of petals (corolla) is 0.06 to 0.08 inches (1.5-2 mm) wide. Definitive species 

identification requires microscopic seed inspection. 

Habitat: Vernal pools, wet places;

26 


Coyote-Thistle 

Scientific Name: Eryngium vaseyi 


Apiaceae 

Description: Coyote-thistle is a spreading perennial herb, branching horizontally from the main stem. Leaf 

blades are 3 to 9 inches (8-24 cm), lanceolate to oblong and deeply pinnately, sharply lobed. Aquatic stage of 

foliage is tubular. Inflorescence head 0.3 to 0.5 inches (8-13 mm) with 7-8 bracts twice as long as heads with 

teeth near the base. 

Habitat: Vernal pools, (alkaline) depressions; 30 to 2,000 feet (10-600 m).


Coyote-Thistle, Prickly 

Scientific Name: Eryngium armatum 


Apiaceae 

Description: Prickly coyote-thistle is a spreading perennial herb 4 to 20 inches (1-5 dm). Leaves are thick, 4 to 

12 inches (10-30 cm), oblanceolate, and sharply serrated to irregularly cut. Inflorescence is a spiky flower head 

surrounded by 7-8 long, sharp-pointed, usually entire bracts with white margins, sometimes with more layers of 

bractlets on top. 

Habitat: Vernal pool margins, depressions in coastal prairie, bluffs; 0 to 656 feet (0-200 m).

28 


Gumplant 

Scientific Name: Grindelia camporum 


Asteraceae 

Description: Gumplant is a perennial plant that grows to 2 feet tall or more and is found around the edges of 

vernal pools. The inflorescence is 0.7 to 1.0 inches (17-25 mm) in diameter and consists of 25-39 ray flowers 

with yellow ligules (petals), approximately 0.3-0.4 inches (8-11 mm) long and many disk flowers. There are 

bracts around the base of the inflorescence that are long and curved backward. Leaves arise directly from the 

stem and are sticky or shiny. Flowers: May to July. 

Habitat: Sandy or saline low-lying areas near water, fields, roadsides; < 4,600 feet (1,400 m)


Red Maids 

Scientific Name: Calandrinia ciliata 


Portulacaceae 

Description: Red maids is a fleshy, spreading annual herb with showy magenta flowers. Leaves are 0.4 to 4 

inches (1-10 cm), linear to oblanceolate and flat. Flowers have 2 sepals and usually 5 petals. Flowers: mostly 

February to May. 

Habitat: Common. Sandy to loamy soil, grassy areas, cultivated fields;

30 


Short Seed Waterwort 

Scientific Name: Elatine brachysperma 


Elatinaceae 

Description: Short seed waterwort is a tiny annual plant with leaves that are ovate to narrowly oblong, and one 

flower per leaf node, resting directly on the stem (no pedicel). Flowers generally have 2-3 sepals and 3 petals. 

Definitive species identification requires microscopic seed inspection. 

Habitat: Muddy shores and shallow pools; 160 to 1,600 feet (50-500 m).


Slender Aster 

Scientific Name: Symphyotrichum subulatum var. ligulatum 


Asteraceae 

Description: Slender aster is an annual that grows up to 40 inches tall. Leaves are smooth and linear to 

oblanceolate and grow both basally and along the stem. Inflorescence has many pink to violet ray flowers. 

Flowers: July to October. 

Habitat: Wet places, often alkaline,

32 


Smooth Spike-Primrose (Pygmy Epilobium) 

Scientific Name: Epilobium pygmaeum 


Onagraceae 

Description: Smooth spike-primrose is an annual herb


Southern Tarplant 

Scientific Name: Centromadia parryi ssp. australis 

(Hemizonia parryi ssp. australis) 


Asteraceae 

Southern tarplant is seriously 

endangered in California 

Description: Southern tarplant is an annual herb that is included on the California Native Plant Society’s list 

1B.1, seriously endangered in California. The inflorescence consists of ray flowers with yellow-orange ligules 

(petals), approximately 0.08 inches (2 mm) long and disk flowers with brown or black anthers. Leaves are 

rigidly spine tipped in mature plants. Plants range in size from a couple of inches to over 2 feet. 

Habitat: Seasonally moist grassland, < 650 feet (200 m).

34 


Water Pygmyweed 

Scientific Name: Crassula aquatica 


Crassulaceae 

Description: Water pygmyweed is a tiny, succulent, spreading, branched annual up to 2 inches tall. Leaves are 

0.08 to 0.24 inches (2-6 mm), oblanceolate to linear with acute tips. There is one flower per leaf pair growing 

on a short stalk, from the base of the leaf pair. Flowers are only 0.04 to 0.08 inches (1-2 mm). Vegetation is 

greenish-yellow to bright red. 

Habitat: Salt marshes, vernal pools, ponds, < 9,800 feet (3,000 m).


Woolly Marbles 

Scientific Name: Psilocarphus brevissimus 


Asteraceae 

Description: Woolly-marbles is an annual herb that is variously tomentose (covered with densely interwoven, 

generally matted hairs), with several stems from the base, spreading to erect. Largest flower heads are generally 

0.2 to 0.6 inches (6-14 mm) across. Uppermost leaves are generally lanceolate to ovate, the longest being 0.3 to 

1 inch (8-25 mm), 1.5 to 4 times longer than wide. 

Habitat: Vernal pools and flats;

36 


The Invasives 

Following are profiles for some of the more common and/or 

noxious invasive species found in and around the Storke 

Ranch vernal pools. Each profile includes basic identification 

information including the common name, scientific name, 

origin, and family of the plant along with the Cal-IPC 

statewide impact rating. There are one or more photos for 

each species, followed by a verbal description of the plant, a 

summary of its ecological damage, how it spreads, and some 

tips and suggestions for removal. 

The plants are organized by major grouping (monocot 

vs. dicot) and within each grouping they are arranged 

alphabetically by common name. Monocots and dicots are 

described briefly in the intro to The Natives on page 9. 

The basic format of each invasive plant profile is as follows: 

Restoration intern with bristly ox tongue. 

Common Name 

Scientific Name: 

Origin: 

Cal-IPC statewide impact rating: 

Family 

Photo(s) 

Description: 

Ecological Damage: 

How it spreads: 

Removal:

Invasive Species 37 

Barley, Mediterranean and Foxtail 

Scientific Name: Hordeum marinum & H. murinum 

Origin: Europe 

Cal-IPC statewide impact rating: Moderate 

Poaceae 

Mediterranean Barley Foxtail Barley Meadow Barley (native) 

Description: Mediterranean barley and foxtail barley 

are annual grasses with dense, bristly flower heads 

with conspicuous awns. At maturity, flower spikes 

break apart into several pieces. Foxtail barley has 

well developed auricles (small ear-like projections 

found at the junction of the blade and the sheath in 

grasses), up to 0.3 inch (8 mm). In Mediterranean 

barley, auricles are usually absent but can be up to 

0.1 inch (3 mm). Note: There are 2 perennial native 

barley grasses found at Storke Ranch: meadow barley 

(Hordeum brachyantherum subsp. brachyantherum) 

and California barley (H. brachyantherum subsp. 

californicum). These native barleys have generally 

longer, more slender inflorescences with shorter awns 

and also lack auricles on the leaves. 

Ecological Damage: Mediterranean barley and foxtail 

barley can out-compete native perennial grasses. The 

stiff, barbed awns of mature inflorescences can injure 

the mouth eyes, skin, and nasal passages of animals. 

Mediterranean barley can invade the edges of vernal 

pools and relatively undisturbed grassland. 

How it spreads: Spikelets attach to equipment, 

clothing, and animal fur and feathers. 

Removal: Remove by hand before seed set for small 

infestations. For large infestations, solarize with 

black plastic for multiple grow-kill cycles. Some 

control can be achieved by cutting close to the ground 

and removing the vegetation about 10 days after the 

seed heads start to turn color. This is most effective 

when repeated for multiple years. Selective use of 

glyphosate herbicide may also be effective.

38 


Bermuda Grass 

Scientific Name: Cynodon dactylon 

Origin: Africa 


Poaceae 

Description: Bermuda grass is a creeping perennial 

grass with long, slender, creeping stems above 

and below ground. Leaves have a conspicuous 

ring of white hairs where the leaf blade meets the 

stem. Stems spread laterally over the soil surface, 

often rooting at lower nodes. Flowering stems 

are upright and have 4-7 spike-like branches in a 

radiating configuration resembling fingers on a hand. 

Vegetation looks similar to native saltgrass (Distichlis 

spicata), but flowers are very different. 

Ecological Damage: Forms large, dense ground cover 

mats that can inhibit native plant survival. Under 

drought conditions it can be poisonous to herbivores. 

Bermuda grass also causes hayfever. 

How it spreads: Spreads by seed and vegetatively 

from above and below ground stems that root at nodes. 

Can be transported long distances by water, mowing 

equipment, vehicles, horses, and cattle. Ants can 

transport seeds short distances. 

Removal: Bermuda grass is difficult to control. 

Repeated removal of above ground plant material 

can inhibit growth, and hand hoeing or other shallow 

cultivation will remove the upper portions of plants 

and is particularly effective in the summer when 

dessication of the rhizome fragments will occur. 

Solarization with black plastic for several months in 

the summer is an effective control method for large 

infestations. Glyphosate herbicide application in the 

spring or preferably fall can also be effective, but 

multiple applications may be necessary.


Harding Grass 

Scientific Name: Phalaris aquatica 

Origin: Mediterranean Europe (CA cultivar introduced from Australia) 


Poaceae 

Description: Harding grass is a perennial grass 

that forms large clumps with short rhizomes around 

the base. Stems can grow up to 5 ft (150 cm) tall. 

Inflorescence is 0.6 to 4.3 inches (1.5 to 11 cm) long, 

0.4 to 1 inch (1 to 2.5 cm) wide, and is generally 

cylindric, sometimes interrupted in the lower 1/3. 

Leaf blades are 2 to 6 inches (5-15 cm) long and 0.02 

to 0.4 inches (0.5-10 mm) wide. Note: The native 

Lemmon’s Canarygrass (Phalaris lemmonii) is an 

annual grass that is found in vernal pools at Storke 

Ranch (see page 15). 

Ecological Damage: Harding grass can out-compete 

and displace native species, forming localized dense 

stands. 

How it spreads: Reproduces by seed, which is 

produced between May and September. It can also 

spread by rhizomes. 

Removal: Digging plants out can be effective, but 

is very labor intensive and can disperse roots that 

may resprout. Frequent removal of herbage during 

the active growth period reduces biomass and 

promotes mortality. Probably the best control method, 

according to The Nature Conservancy, is repeated 

mowing followed by glyphosate herbicide application 

on resprouts.

40 


Italian Rye Grass 

Scientific Name: Lolium multiflorum 



Poaceae 

Description: Italian rye grass is an upright 1 to 2.5 

foot tall annual grass that is often purplish red at the 

base. Leaves are generally 0.1 to 0.3 inches (3-7 mm) 

wide and have a flat, shiny green blade with prominent 

veins. Flower spikes are 4 to 12 inches (10-30 cm) 

and have spikelets that are flattened edgewise and 

alternate along the flower stem 

Ecological Damage: Can significantly impact native 

grassland communities and vernal pools. 

How it spreads: Italian rye grass is widely distributed 

in hay and is still sold as seed. It produces copious 

seed, most of which probably falls near the parent 

plant. 

Removal: Remove by hand before seed set. Large 

infestations can be eradicated by repeated solarization.


Pampas Grass and Purple Pampas Grass 

Scientific Name: Cortaderia selloana, Cortaderia jubata 

Origin: Central South America 

Cal-IPC statewide impact rating: High 

Poaceae 

Description: Large, perennial, clump-forming 

grass growing 6.5 to 23 feet (2-7 m) tall. The 

leaves are narrow and sharp (finely serrated), and 

the inflorescences are large and fluffy (white in C. 

selloana and purple tinged in C. jubata). 

Ecological Damage: Increases both frequency and 

intensity of fire; displaces native species; decreases 

forage and nesting sites for native animals. 

How it spreads: Often found in disturbed areas. 

Produces many seeds that are dispersed by the wind 

up to 20 miles. Sold in the nursery trade and also 

dispersed by people playing with plumes. May also 

spread vegetatively from fragments or root mass of a 

mature plant. 

Removal: It is important to prevent seed spread. 

Carefully remove and dispose of all seed plumes. 

Remove in the spring before seed set. Dig out small 

plants. Cut larger plants to the ground and dig out the 

root mass. Solarization or herbicides can be used to 

prevent resprouts.

42 


Rabbitfoot Grass 

Scientific Name: Polypogon monspeliensis 

Origin: South and West Europe 

Cal-IPC statewide impact rating: Limited 

Poaceae 

Description: Rabbitfoot grass is a shallow-rooted 

winter annual grass 1/2-3 feet (2-10 dm) tall with 

narrow blue-grey-green leaves that are often abruptly 

bent. The inflorescence is a soft, pale-green spike-like 

panicle that somewhat resembles a furry rabbit foot. 

Inhabiting moist to wet places, rabbitfoot grass is an 

aggressive weed in vernal pools, where even tiny (1 

inch) plants can flower and set seed. 

Ecological Damage: Highly invasive in vernal pools. 

This grass can take over large areas leaving less 

room for native annual vernal pool species; may be 

allelopathic. 

How it spreads: Thrives in disturbed areas; spreads 

mainly by producing copious seed. Seeds can disperse 

with water or by clinging to animals. Sometimes 

spreads my stolons. 

Removal: It is important to prevent this species from 

taking hold in vernal pools if possible. Remove plants 

by hand in late winter or early spring, before they set 

seed. Plants can flower even when very small.


Ripgut Brome 

Scientific Name: Bromus diandrus 



Poaceae 

Long, jagged ligule 

Description: Ripgut brome is an annual grass that 

occurs throughout California and can grow up to 30 

inches tall. It has a tubular sheath on the seedling, 

distinguishing it from most other grass seedlings. 

Soft hairs cover the leaf blades and sheaths. The 

membranous ligule is long, whitish, and jagged. The 

inflorescence is an open panicle, similar to oats. Large 

spikelets have awns that are 1 to 2 inches (2.5 - 5 

cm) long. The swollen nodes of the stems distinguish 

ripgut brome from the native purple needlegrass. 

Brome can become established over a wide range of 

soil moisture. Note: this genus also contains some 

native species. 

Ecological Damage: High water use efficiency allows 

late season growth; interferes with the establishment 

and survival of native plant seedlings; and produces 

abundant potential fuel, potentially increasing 

frequency and severity of fires. Floret parts have tiny, 

rough teeth that are injurious to livestock and pets. 

How it spreads: Soil disturbance contributes to 

spread. A single plant can produce up to a thousand 

seeds. Seeds are wind dispersed and florets can stick 

to clothing and fur. 

Removal: Pull by hand before seed set. For large 

infestations, mow or weed whip late March to early 

April before seeds mature. Solarization is also 

effective.

44 


Smilo Grass 

Scientific Name: Piptatherum miliaceum 

Origin: Mediterranean 


Poaceae 

Description: Smilo grass is a tufted perennial grass 

that appears to be spreading in natural areas of 

Southern California. It grows 1-5 feet tall (4-15 dm). 

The inflorescence is 6 to 16 inches (15-40 cm) and 

has whorled branches with many tiny spikelets. Each 

spikelet has a single floret about 1/16 inch (1.5-2 mm). 

Awns are about 1/8 inch (3-4 mm) and drop readily. 

Flowers: April to September. 

Ecological Damage: Smilo grass is larger than most 

native grasses and alters the structure of grassland 

areas by creating a raised canopy. 

How it spreads: Smilo grass usually occurs in areas 

with human or natural disturbance. It reproduces by 

seed which can be carried by water, soil movement, 

and human activities. It resprouts from underground 

when cut. 

Removal: Remove plants by digging out the root mass 

to prevent resprouting. Best removed before flowering 

in late winter or early spring when the soil is moist.


Wild Oat 

Scientific Name: Avena fatua and A. barbata 

Origin: Europe and Central Asia 


Poaceae 

Membranous ligule 

Description: Wild oat is an annual grass, 1-4 feet tall, 

with erect, hollow stems. Leaf blades are flat, 1/16 

– 1/2 inch wide, with membranous ligules. Seedling 

leaves twist counter clockwise. Inflorescence is an 

open panicle, nodding, with 2-3 florets per spikelet. 

Blooms: March-June. 

Ecological Damage: Out-competes native grasses; 

allelopathic; forms extensive fibrous root system. 

How it spreads: Needs disturbance to establish; often 

associated with agricultural fields. Most seed falls 

near parent plant. 

Removal: Pull plants by hand before seed set. For 

extensive areas without native species, solarize with 

black plastic.

46 


Australian Saltbush 

Scientific Name: Atriplex semibaccata 

Origin: Australia 


Chenopodiaceae 

Description: Australian saltbush is a droughttolerant 

spreading shrubby perennial less than 1 foot 

tall, spreading up to 6 feet or more across. It has 

silvery gray evergreen leaves and small red fruit. It 

is invasive in coastal grasslands and scrub and the 

higher ground of salt marshes. Note: this genus also 

contains some native species, some of which are found 

at Storke Ranch. 

Ecological Damage: Displaces native plants. A single 

plant can form a mat up to 6 feet in diameter; creates a 

thick ground cover. 

How it spreads: Spreads by seed. Fruits are dispersed 

by fruit eating mammals, birds, reptiles, and ants. 

Resprouts when cut. It establishes well in areas that 

have been heavily grazed or disturbed. This plant is 

sold horticulturally and has been promoted as a fireresistant 

ground cover and for reclamation of mined 

sites in the southwest. 

Removal: Remove by pulling out the entire plant 

by hand before seed set. Seeds are produced from 

summer to December.


Bindweed 

Scientific Name: Convolvulus arvensis 


Cal-IPC statewide impact rating: Evaluated but not listed 

Convolvulaceae 

Small bractlets 

Description: Bindweed is a perennial herb or vine 

with a deep, persistent root. Leaves are more or 

less arrowhead shaped with tip generally rounded. 

Flowers are funnel shaped, white to pinkish; 

purplish outside, particularly at the folds. Flowers 

are approximately 1 inch in diameter with 2 small 

bractlets about 1 inch below the flower. Flowers: May 

to October. Note: size and position of small bractlets 

distinguish this species from the similar-flowered 

native island morning glory (Calystegia macrostegia) 

and Pacific false bindweed (C. purpurata). Note: 

there is also a native plant in the genus Convolvulus, 

small flowered morning glory (C. equitans), but it is 

not currently found at Storke Ranch. 

Ecological Damage: Can draw down soil moisture 

levels and disadvantage other species under dry to 

moderately moist conditions. Foliage contains tropane 

alkaloids which can cause intestinal problems in 

horses and presumably other animals. 

How it spreads: Once established, can spread rapidly 

through regeneration from underground parts, and 

long-lived seeds can be spread by water, birds, and 

mechanical equipment. One plant can produce 500 

seeds which can remain viable in the soil for 20 years 

or more. Reproduces vegetatively by perennial roots/ 

rhizomes and cut shoots. 

Removal: Remove above ground biomass multiple 

times over at least 2 growing seasons. Treat with 

herbicide.

48 


Brass Buttons 

Scientific Name: Cotula coronopifolia 

Origin: Southern Africa 


Asteraceae 

Description: Common brassbuttons is an invasive 

perennial herb that is usually less than 1.5 feet (0.5 

meters) with stems generally lying flat on the ground 

but with ends that curve upward. Foliage is aromatic 

and flower heads are button-like. It typically occurs in 

wetlands and is a frequent invader of vernal pools. 

Ecological Damage: Possible impacts to vernal pool 

species. 

How it spreads: Spreads by seed and vegetatively 

from stems that root at nodes. Can be transported by 

water. 

Removal: Pull by hand before seed set; remove entire 

root.


Bristly Ox Tongue 

Scientific Name: Helminthotheca echioides 



Asteraceae 

Description: Bristly ox tongue is a broad-leaved 

annual or biennial plant, 12 to 32 inches (3-8 

dm), common throughout most of California and 

occasionally found in seasonally wet places. Leaves 

are oblong and covered with blister-like swellings with 

coarse, barbed, and bristly hairs. Yellow flower heads 

are carried at the top of stems. Petals are toothed. 

Ecological Damage: Can form dense stands in coastal 

areas. 

How it spreads: Inhabits disturbed places, such as 

roadsides, fields, and pastures. Seeds disperse by 

wind, water, and by clinging to tires and equipment. 

Removal: Dig plants out by hand before flowering to 

prevent spread. Flower heads can ripen and set seed if 

left onsite, so material bearing flowers or buds should 

be removed from the site.

50 


Bur-Clover 

Scientific Name: Medicago polymorpha 

Origin: Mediterranean 


Fabaceae 

Description: Bur-clover is an annul herb with 

prostrate, mat-forming or ascending stems, 4 to 

16 inches (1-4 dm). Leaves are composed of 3 

leaflets, each generally 0.4 to 0.8 inches (1-2 cm). 

Inflorescence consists of 2-6 yellow flowers. Fruit 

(bur) is coiled 2-6 turns and typically has prickles. 

Ecological Damage: This plant fixes nitrogen, 

increasing nutrient levels in the soil. Increased 

nutrient levels generally favor weedy plant species that 

can utilize the enhanced resources. Higher nutrient 

levels in the soil allow more biomass production and 

increased thatch. 

How it spreads: Seed pods (burs) attach to clothing 

and animal fur. Seeds remain viable for years. 

Removal: Remove by hand before seed set. 

Solarization and herbicides are also effective against 

this species.


Curly Dock 

Scientific Name: Rumex crispus 

Origin: Eurasia 


Polygonaceae 

Description: Curly dock is a robust perennial herb 

2-5 feet (0.6-1.5 m) tall that usually grows in wet 

areas. The mostly basal leaves are elongate, 4-12 

inches, with wavy margins. Stems are often reddish 

and slightly ridged. Flowers are small and in dense, 

green, spike-like clusters. Inflorescences turn reddishbrown 

at maturity. Curly dock has a thick, carrot-like 

taproot. Note: this genus also contains some native 

species. 

Ecological Damage: Creates a new structural layer 

and pushes out native species once established. 

How it spreads: Produces copious seed (40,000/plant) 

spread by humans and animals. Seed can survive for 

many years in the soil. 

Removal: Remove by hand pulling, Weed Wrenching, 

or digging (remove crown at least 2 inches below 

the surface). Remove entire root if possible because 

remaining portions can resprout. Weed Wrenching 

and hand pulling are most effective in the spring when 

the stalk has begun to toughen but is not yet brittle. 

Repeated, frequent removal of all above-ground 

vegetation can weaken and eventually kill plants.

52 


Cut-Leaved Geranium 

Scientific Name: Geranium dissectum 



Geraniaceae 

Leaf divided into 

5-7 segments 

Upper half of 

segments lobed 

Description: Cut-leaved geranium is a low-growing 

annual herb that is commonly found throughout 

California in disturbed areas and grasslands. Leaf 

blades are 0.8 to 2.4 inches (2-6 cm) wide and are 

deeply dissected into 5-7 segments, with the upper half 

of the segements lobed. Flowers are rose to purple 

with sepals and petals more or less equal in length. 

Note: this genus also contains some native species, but 

they are not currently found at Storke Ranch. 

Ecological Damage: Once established, cut-leaved 

geranium appears to displace herbaceous native 

species. 

How it spreads: Disturbance assists the spread of cutleaved 

geranium which produces copious seed. Fruits 

stick in animal fur, clothing, and on equipment. This 

species is also spread in contaminated hay or grain. 

Removal: Remove by hand before seed set. 

Solarization can be used for large infestations lacking 

native species.


English Plantain 

Scientific Name: Plantago lanceolata 



Plantaginaceae 

Description: English plantain is a perennial herb that 

thrives in disturbed areas. It has a basal rosette of 

lance-shaped leaves that have distinct parallel veins. 

The inflorescence is a ¾ - 3 inch (2-8 cm) spike at the 

end of a 7.5-30 inch (20-80 cm) stalk. Leaves of this 

plant have been used for salves to treat skin irritation 

and to make a tea for treatment of diarrhea. Note: this 

genus also contains some native species. 

Ecological Damage: Can form dense infestations. 

How it spreads: Reproduces both by seed and lateral 

shoots. Some buried seeds can survive for up to 

20 years. Seeds generally fall near the parent plant 

and can be transported by water, soil movement, 

and human activities. Seeds become sticky when 

moistened. 

Removal: Remove by digging out the entire root 

mass to prevent resprouts.

54 


Fennel 

Scientific Name: Foeniculum vulgare 

Origin: Mediterranean region and southwestern Asia 

Cal-IPC statewide impact rating: High 

Apiaceae 

Description: Fennel is an erect perennial herb 

with a strong anise-like odor. Leaves are pinnately 

compound into thread-like, slender divisions. Small, 

yellow flowers are arranged in a compound umbel. 

Ecological Damage: Can alter natural fire regimes; 

creates an intense, fast-moving fire if ignited. Fennel 

excludes almost all other vegetation once it is firmly 

established. It alters the vertical complexity of 

grassland communities and excludes many grassland 

species. 

How it spreads: Disturbance facilitates the spread 

of fennel which is a prolific seed producer. Mature 

plants can produce hundreds of thousands of seeds per 

plant. Seeds can be spread by cultivation equipment, 

agricultural produce, livestock, and humans (on 

clothing). Fennel can also reproduce by root division 

Removal: Fennel can be successfully removed by 

deep cultivation. Remove plants before seed set to 

prevent spread. Chemical control by spot spraying 

with Garlon (Triclopyr) has also been shown to be 

effective.


Filaree; Broad Leaf, Redstem, and Whitestem 

Scientific Name: Erodium botrys, E. cicutarium, E. moschatum 

Origin: Europe or the Mediterranean 

Cal-IPC statewide impact rating: Limited (Erodium cicutarium) 

Geraniaceae 

Immature fruit with long 

beak and 5 lobes 

redstem filaree leaf 

whitestem filaree leaf 

redstem filaree 

broad leaf filaree seedling 

Description: There are several invasive annual filaree 

species. Leaves are lobed to dissected or compound. 

Flowers have 5 red-lavender petals. Fruit is 5-lobed 

and long-beaked, with each lobe splitting away at 

maturity. Note: this genus also contains some native 

species, but they are not currently found at Storke 

Ranch. 

Ecological Damage: May be able to out-compete 


How it spreads: Needs disturbance (natural or 

human-caused) for establishment. Produces 2,400- 

9,900 seeds/plant. Seeds can be dispersed by water 

and by clinging to maintenance equipment, people, or 

animals. 

Removal: Remove by hand before seed set, or use 

solarization.

56 


Hyssop Loosestrife 

Scientific Name: Lythrum hyssopifolium 



Lythraceae 

Description: Hyssop loosestrife is a summer annual 

that can grow up to 2 feet (0.6 m) tall. It is a common 

weed of seasonal wetlands. Stems are prostrate to 

erect and generally reddish. Flowers have pink to 

lavender colored petals, 0.08 to 0.2 inches (2-5 mm) 

long. Lower leaves are opposite and upper leaves 

are generally alternate, 0.2 to 1.2 inches (5-30 mm) 

long. Note: this genus also contains a native species, 

California loosestrife (L. californicum), which is not 

currently found at Storke Ranch. 

Ecological Damage: Hyssop loosestrife is highly 

competitive during early stages of succession but lacks 

long-term competitive ability. 

How it spreads: Plants produce an estimated 3,200 

seeds per plant. Seeds can survive 14 years under 

laboratory conditions. Seeds can be transported on 

shoes and on the feet and fur of animals. 

Removal: Remove by hand before seed set. Use a 

hula hoe on young plants. Remove all vegetation to 

prevent resprouts from roots and stems left in contact 

with damp soil.


Mustard; Black, Field, and Mediterranean Hoary 

Scientific Name: Brassica nigra, B. rapa, and Hirschfeldia incana 



Brassicaceae 

Description: Black mustard and field mustard are 

annuals with erect stems that grow 2-8 feet (4-20 dm) 

and 1-4 feet (2-10 dm) tall, respectively. Lower leaves 

are pinnately lobed. Black mustard leaves usually 

have short, stiff, scattered hairs. Field mustard leaves 

are generally smooth; the upper are non-lobed with 

a pointed tip and broad, clasping base. Flowers are 

yellow with 4 petals. Seed pods (called siliques) have 

a constricted beak above the uppermost seed. Mature 

seed pods of black mustard remain pressed close to 

the stem, while those of field mustard spread out from 

the stem. Mediterranean hoary mustard is a biennial 

or perennial herb 1-4 feet (2-10 dm) tall. It has a basal 

rosette of pinnately lobed leaves flat on the ground 

with the terminal lobe larger than the lateral lobes. 

Upper leaves are mostly simple, not clasping the stem. 

Ecological Damage: Toxic chemicals from plants 

leach into the soil and prevent germination of many 


How it spreads: Seeds are sticky when wet, 

facilitating dispersal by humans; may also be 

dispersed by rodents. 

Removal: Pull by hand before seed set. Field 

mustard and Mediterranean hoary mustard can survive 

more than one season, so remove entire root to prevent 

re-growth.

58 


Prickly Lettuce 

Scientific Name: Lactuca serriola 

Origin: Eurasia 


Asteraceae 

Spines along lower side of midrib 

Description: Prickly lettuce is a winter annual with 

milky sap and a large taproot. The main stem grows 1 

to 5 feet tall branching in the flowering portion. The 

leaves are twisted at the base to lie in a vertical plane 

and have spines along the lower side of the midrib. 

Leaves have toothed edges or are coarsely lobed and 

clasp the stem with 2 angled lobes. Flower heads are 

yellow and have ray flowers only. 

Ecological Damage: Prickly lettuce is not thought 

to be highly competitive. Young plants can cause 

pulmonary emphysema in cattle, but wildlife impacts 

are unknown. 

How it spreads: Seeds are probably primarily wind 

dispersed. 

Removal: Remove by hand before seed set.


Scarlet Pimpernel 

(Poor-man’s weatherglass) 

Scientific Name: Anagallis arvensis 


Cal-IPC statewide impact rating: Not Evaluated 

Primulaceae 

Myrsinaceae 

Description: Scarlet pimpernel is a low, spreading 

annual herb. Stems are 2 to 16 inches. Leaves are 

opposite or whorled with blades 1/5 – 4/5 inches, oval 

to elliptical. Flowers have 0.4 – 1.2 inch long pedicels 

and are usually salmon colored but sometimes are 

blue or bluish white. This genus also contains a native 

plant, chaffweed (A. minima) that may be found in 

vernal pools. It has pink flowers that are much less 

showy than those of scarlet pimpernel and generally 

have no pedicels. 

Ecological Damage: Toxic to livestock and humans. 

How it spreads: Seed can remain viable in the soil for 

at least 10 years and may be spread by birds. 

Removal: Pull by hand before seed set.

60 


Sheep Sorrel 

Scientific Name: Rumex acetosella 



Polygonaceae 

papery sheath 

Description: Sheep sorrel is a perennial herb ½-2 

feet tall that spreads by rhizomes and is common in 

moist places and annual and perennial grasslands in 

California. Leaves are mostly basal and somewhat 

arrow-shaped. The slender leaf stalk has a papery 

sheath where it attaches to the stem. Orange-yellow 

male flowers and red-orange female flowers are 

housed on different plants (dioecious). Note: this 

genus also contains some native species. 

Ecological Damage: Displaces native grasses and 

forbs by root competition and shading and can form 

large, dense stands. Toxic to domestic livestock and 

may be toxic to other mammals. 

How it spreads: Thrives on disturbed soils; spreads 

by underground rhizomes and seeds. Seed may be 

dispersed by human activities, water, and animals. 

Removal: Because it spreads by rhizomes, this 

species is difficult to remove by hand. Repeated, 

frequent removal with a shovel, attempting to remove 

all root material, might be effective over time but 

is not feasible for large infestations. For large 

infestations, spray with herbicide in the spring.


Sowthistle; Perennial, Prickly, and Common 

Scientific Name: Sonchus arvensis, Sonchus asper, Sonchus oleraceus 



Asteraceae 

Description: Sowthistles are common garden weeds. 

The seed leaves are almost spoon-shaped with a 

distinct stalk. Later leaves have prickles or teeth along 

the margin and often have a winged stalk. Flowers are 

yellow and mature into fluffy white seed heads. Stems 

are hollow and secrete milky sap when cut open. 

Ecological Damage: Some sowthistles are highly 

competitive and can rapidly colonize new sites by 

vegetative reproduction. 

How it spreads: Thrives in disturbed sites with 

damp soil; reproduces by wind-dispersed seed and 

vegetative shoots from roots. Seed can also be 

dispersed by water or by clinging to clothing, fur or 

feathers. 

Removal: Remove entire plant, including root mass, 

by pulling out or digging.

62 


Vetch 

Scientific Name: Vicia sp. 



Fabaceae 

Description: There are a variety of annual vetches 

that are invasive in and around vernal pools including 

purple vetch (V. benghalensis), spring vetch (V. 

sativa), and hairy vetch (V. villosa). All are sprawling 

or climbing vines that can form dense mats and have 

pinnately divided compound leaves with tendrils at the 

end. They vary in the color, size, shape, and number 

of flowers per inflorescence and the size and shape of 

the leaves. Note: this genus also contains some native 

species. 

Ecological Damage: Unknown 

How it spreads: Spreads by seed which may be 

carried by animals. 

Removal: Remove plants by hand before seed set. 

Solarization is generally not effective on this species.


Wild Radish 

Scientific Name: Raphanus sativus 

Origin: Mediterranean Europe 


Brassicaceae 

Description: Wild radish is an annual or sometimes 

biennial herb 1-4 feet (4-12 dm) tall. Seed leaves 

are broad and heart-shaped. Leaves are mostly 

basal; lower leaves are pinnately divided with a large 

terminal segment. Flowers are ¾ inch (15-25 mm) 

wide and range from white to purple or yellow brown 

in color with veins of varied colors. Seed pods are 

pithy, 1.5-3 inches (3-6 cm) long, and about ¼ inch (5- 

10 mm) in diameter, with 2-8 seeds. 

Ecological Damage: Can cause digestive tract 

irritation in livestock. 

How it spreads: Fruits and seeds can disperse with 

human activities. 

Removal: Pull out by hand when soil is moist in 

the winter or spring. Where natives are not present, 

seedlings can be killed by solarization in fall to early 

winter.

64 

Plant Table 

Plants found in the Storke Ranch open space 

This table includes plants presently found and historically found in the Storke Ranch open space. 

Scientific Name Common Name Family Lifeform Status Local 

Concern 

Agrostis sp. Bentgrass Poaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Alopecurus saccatus Pacific foxtail Poaceae annual herb Native Yes 

Ambrosia psilostachya var. californica Western ragweed Asteraceae perennial herb Native No 

Anagallis arvensis Scarlet pimpernel Primulaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Anagallis minimus False pimpernel Primulaceae annual herb Native Yes 

Artemisia californica California sagebrush Asteraceae shrub Native No 

Arthrocnemum subterminale Glasswort; Pickleweed Chenopodiaceae perennial herb Native Yes 

Asclepias fascicularis Milkweed Asclepiadaceae perennial herb Native No 

Atriplex semibaccata Australian saltbush Chenopodiaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Atriplex triangularis Spearscale Chenopodiaceae annual herb Native No 

Atriplex watsonii Watson’s saltbush Chenopodiaceae perennial herb Native Yes 

Avena barbata Slender wild oat Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Avena fatua Wild oat Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Baccharis pilularis Coyote brush Asteraceae shrub Native No 

Baccharis salicifolia Mule fat Asteraceae shrub Native No 

Bolboschoenus maritimus Prairie bulrush Cyperaceae perennial herb Native No 

Brassica nigra Black mustard Brassicaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Brassica rapa ssp. sylvestris Field mustard Brassicaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Bromus catharticus Rescue grass Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Bromus diandrus Ripgut brome Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens Red Brome Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Bromus mollis Soft brome; Soft chess Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Bromus tectorum Cheat grass Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Calandrinia ciliata Red maids Portulacaceae annual herb Native No


Concern 

Callistemon sp. Bottlebrush Myrtaceae tree Non-native No 

Callitriche marginata California water starwort Callitrichaceae annual herb Native Yes 

Calystegia macrostegia ssp. cyclostegia Morning-glory Convolvulaceae perennial herb Native No 

Calystegia purpurata Morning-glory Convolvulaceae perennial herb Native No 

Camissonia strigulosa Evening primrose Onagraceae annual herb Native No 

Carduus pycnocephalus Italian thistle Asteraceae annual herb Non-native No 

Castilleja densiflora Dense flower owl’s clover Scrophulariaceae annual herb Native No 

Centromadia parryi ssp. Australis Southern tarplant Asteraceae annual herb Native Yes 

Chenopodium californicum California goosefoot Chenopodiaceae perennial herb Native No 

Cirsium vulgare Bull thistle Asteraceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Convolvulus arvensis Bindweed Convolvulaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Conyza canadensis Horseweed Asteraceae annual herb Non-native No 

Conyza coulteri Coulter’s horseweed Asteraceae annual herb Native No 

Cortaderia jubata Purple pampas grass Poaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Cortaderia selloana Pampas grass Poaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Cotula coronopifolia Brass buttons Asteraceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Crassula aquatica Water pygmyweed Crassulaceae annual herb Native Yes 

Cressa truxillensis var. vallicola Alkali weed Convolvulaceae perennial herb Native No 

Crypsis schoenoides Swamp pricklegrass Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Cupressus macrocarpa Monterey cypress Cupressaceae tree Native No 

Cynara scolymus Artichoke Asteraceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Cynodon dactylon Bermuda grass Poaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Cyperus eragrostis Tall flatsedge Cyperaceae perennial herb Native No 

Deinandra fasciculata Fascicled tarweed Asteraceae annual herb Native No 

Deinandra increscens ssp. increscens Grassland tarweed Asteraceae annual herb Native No 

Distichlis spicata var. spicata Saltgrass Poaceae perennial herb Native No 

Elatine brachysperma Short seed waterwort Elatinaceae annual herb Native Yes 

Eleocharis acicularis Needle spikerush Cyperaceae perennial herb Native No 

Eleocharis macrostachya Common spikerush Cyperaceae perennial herb Native No 

Encelia californica California encelia Asteraceae shrub Native No 

65

66 


Concern 

Epilobium ciliatum Slender willow herb Onagraceae perennial herb Native No 

Epilobium pygmaeum Smooth spike-primrose Onagraceae annual herb Native Yes 

Eremocarpus setigerus Dove weed Euphorbiaceae annual herb Native No 

Erodium botrys Broad leaf filaree Geraniaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Erodium cicutarium Redstem filaree Geraniaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Erodium moschatum Whitestem filaree Geraniaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Eryngium armatum Prickly coyote-thistle Apiaceae perennial herb Native Yes 

Eryngium vaseyi Coyote-thistle Apiaceae perennial herb Native No 

Eucalyptus sp. Eucalyptus Myrtaceae tree Non-native No 

Euthamia occidentalis Western goldenrod Asteraceae perennial herb Native No 

Festuca rubra Red fescue Poaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Foeniculum vulgare Fennel Apiaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Frankenia grandifolia Alkali heath Frankeniaceae perennial herb Native No 

Geranium dissectum Cut-leaved geranium Geraniaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Gnaphalium californicum California Everlasting Asteraceae annual herb Native No 

Gnaphalium luteo-album Everlasting Cudweed Asteraceae annual herb Non-native No 

Gnaphalium palustre Western marsh cudweed Asteraceae annual herb Native No 

Gnaphalium ramosissimum Pink everlasting Asteraceae biennial herb Native No 

Grindelia camporum Gumplant Asteraceae perennial herb Native No 

Heliotropium curassavicum Salt heliotrope Boraginaceae perennial herb Native No 

Helminthotheca echioides Bristly ox tongue Asteraceae annual herb Non-native No 

Heteromeles arbutifolia Toyon Rosaceae shrub Native No 

Heterotheca grandiflora Telegraph weed Asteraceae annual herb Native No 

Hirschfeldia incana Mediterranean hoary Brassicaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

mustard 

Hordeum brachyantherum ssp. 

Meadow barley Poaceae perennial herb Native Yes 

branchyantherum 

Hordeum branchyantherum ssp. 

California barley Poaceae perennial herb Native No 

californicum 

Hordeum marinum Mediterranean barley Poaceae annual herb Non-native No

67 


Concern 

Hordeum murinum Foxtail barley Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Hypochoeris glabra Smooth cat’s ear Asteraceae annual herb Non-native No 

Isocoma menziesii Coast goldenbush Asteraceae shrub Native No 

Jaumea carnosa Jaumea Asteraceae perennial herb Native No 

Juncus balticus Wire rush Juncaceae perennial herb Native No 

Juncus bufonius Common toad rush Juncaceae annual herb Native No 

Juncus mexicanus Mexican rush Juncaceae perennial herb Native No 

Juncus occidentalis Western rush Juncaceae perennial herb Native No 

Juncus patens Common rush Juncaceae perennial herb Native No 

Juncus phaeocephalus Brown-headed rush Juncaceae perennial herb Native No 

Juncus textilis Indian rush Juncaceae perennial herb Native No 

Lactuca serriola Prickly lettuce Asteraceae annual herb Non-native No 

Lathyrus laetiflorus ssp. laetiflorus Chaparral pea Fabaceae perennial herb Native No 

Lavatera cretica Mallow Malvaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Lolium multiflorum Italian rye grass Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Lotus purshianus Spanish clover Fabaceae annual herb native No 

Lupinus bicolor ssp. microphyllus Sky lupine; Annual lupine Fabaceae annual herb Native No 

Lythrum hyssopifolium Hyssop loosestrife Lythraceae annual herb Non-native No 

Madia sativa Coast tarweed Asteraceae annual herb Native No 

Malva nicaeensis Mallow Malvaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Malva parviflora Cheeseweed Malvaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Malvella leprosa Alkali mallow Malvaceae perennial herb Native No 

Matricaria matricarioides Pineapple weed Asteraceae annual herb Non-native No 

Medicago polymorpha Bur-clover Fabaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Melilotus alba White sweet-clover Fabaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Melilotus indicus Yellow sweet-clover Fabaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Mimulus aurantiacus Sticky monkeyflower Scrophulariaceae shrub Native No 

Nassella pulchra Purple needlegrass Poaceae perennial herb Native No 

Oenothera elata Hooker’s evening primrose Onagraceae perennial herb Native No 

Orthocarpus purpurascens var. 

purpurescens 

Owl’s clover Scrophulariaceae annual herb Native No

68 


Concern 

Oxalis pes-caprae Bermuda buttercup Oxalidaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Parapholis incurva Sickle grass Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Paspalum dilatatum Dallisgrass Poaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Phalaris aquatica Harding grass Poaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Phalaris lemmonii Lemmon’s canarygrass Poaceae annual herb Native Yes 

Phoenix sp. Date palm Arecaceae tree Non-native No 

Pilularia americana Pillwort Marsileaceae fern Native Yes 

Piptatherum miliaceum Smilo grass Poaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Plagiobothrys undulatus Coast allocarya Boraginaceae annual herb Native Yes 

Plantago bigelovii ssp. bigelovii Coastal plantain Plantaginaceae annual herb Native Yes 

Plantago lanceolata English plantain Plantaginaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Plantago major Common plantain Plantaginaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Platanus racemosa Western sycamore Platanaceae tree Native No 

Polygonum arenastrum Common knotweed Polygonaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Polypogon monspeliensis Rabbitfoot grass Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Populus balsamifera ssp. trichocarpa Black cottonwood Salicaceae tree Native No 

Psilocarphus brevissimus Woolly marbles Asteraceae annual herb Native Yes 

Quercus agrifolia Coast live oak Fagaceae tree Native No 

Raphanus raphanistrum Painted charlock Brassicaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Raphanus sativus Wild radish Brassicaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Rhus integrifolia Lemonade berry Anacardiaceae shrub Native No 

Rosa californica California wild rose Rosaceae shrub Native No 

Rubus discolor Himalayan blackberry Rosaceae shrub Non-native No 

Rubus ursinus California blackberry Rosaceae shrub Native No 

Rumex acetosella Sheep sorrel Polygonaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Rumex crispus Curly dock Polygonaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Salicornia virginica Pickleweed Chenopodiaceae perennial herb Native No 

Salix sp. Willow Salicaceae tree Native No 

Salix lasiolepis var. lasiolepis Arroyo willow Salicaceae tree Native No 

Salsola tragus Russian thistle Chenopodiaceae annual herb Non-native No


Concern 

Sambucus mexicana Blue elderberry Caprifoliaceae tree Native No 

Schoenoplectus californicus California bulrush Cyperaceae perennial herb Native No 

Scirpus robustus Big bulrush Cyperaceae perennial herb Native Yes 

Silene gallica Windmill pink Caryophyllaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Silybum marianum Milk thistle Asteraceae annual herb Non-native No 

Sisyrinchium bellum Blue-eyed grass Iridaceae perennial herb Native No 

Sonchus arvensis Perennial sowthistle Asteraceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Sonchus asper Prickly sowthistle Asteraceae annual herb Non-native No 

Sonchus oleraceus Common sowthistle Asteraceae annual herb Non-native No 

Sorghum bicolor Sorghum Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Spergula arvensis Corn spurrey Caryophyllaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Spergularia bocconii Sand spurrey Caryophyllaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Stachys ajugoides Bugle hedge nettle Lamiaceae perennial herb Native No 

Stellaria media Common chickweed Caryophyllaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Suaeda californica California seablite Chenopodiaceae shrub Native No 

Symphyotrichum subulatum var. ligulatum Slender aster Asteraceae annual herb Native Yes 

Tamarix aphylla Tamarisk Tamaricaceae tree Non-native No 

Toxicodendron diversiloba Poison oak Anacardiaceae shrub Native No 

Tragopogon porrifolius Salsify Asteraceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Trifolium hirtum Rose clover Fabaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Trifolium microcephalum Small headed clover Fabaceae perennial herb Non-native No 

Typha latifolia Cattail Typhaceae perennial herb Native No 

Veronica peregrina ssp. xalapensis Neckweed Scrophulariaceae annual herb Native Yes 

Vicia benghalensis Purple vetch Fabaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Vicia sativa Spring vetch Fabaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Vicia sativa ssp. nigra Smaller common vetch Fabaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Vulpia sp. Fescue Poaceae annual herb Non-native No 

Xanthium strumarium var. canadense Cocklebur Asteraceae annual herb Native No 

69

70 

Resources 

Plants 

Calflora 

Website with photos and descriptions of California 

wild plants (native plants and weeds). This site has a 

nice search engine. 

www.calflora.org 

California Invasive Plant Council (Cal-IPC) 

This organization has a website with extensive 

information about invasive plants in California. 

(510) 843-3902 

www.cal-ipc.org 

California Native Plant Society 

This organization has an online rare plant inventory 

and a manual of California vegetation. They also 

provide workshops. 

www.cnps.org 

Growing Solutions Restoration Education Institute 

Custom seed collection and propagation of native 

plants for restoration projects. 

(805) 452-7561 

www.growingsolutions.org 

Santa Barbara Weed Management Area. Santa 

Barbara Agricultural Commissioners Office 

Multi-agency coalition concerned with the invasion of 

farms, rangeland, and native plant and animal habitat 

by non-native weeds. Website includes many grant 

and educational resources. 

(805) 681-5600 

http://www.countyofsb.org/agcomm/wma/index.htm 

Invasipedia 

Information on the management of invasive plants, 

animals, and pathogens. 

http://wiki.bugwood.org/Invasipedia 

The California Department of Pesticide Regulation 

(DPR) 

Responsible for examining and licensing qualified 

pesticide applicators and for certifying applicators 

that use or supervise the use of restricted pesticides. 

(including herbicides). www.cdpr.ca.gov 

Granting Agencies 

(These are the granting agencies that supported restoration efforts at Storke Ranch. For a more 

comprehensive list of grant resources, see the Santa Barbara Weed Management Area website: http://www. 

countyofsb.org/agcomm/wma/index.htm). 

US Fish and Wildlife Service – Partners for Fish 

and Wildlife Program 

Mary Root 

Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office (VFWO) 

Conservation Partnerships Coordinator 

(805) 644-1766, ext. 233 

www.fws.gov/ventura/endangered/cpartnerships/ 

Southern California Wetlands Recovery Project – 

Community Wetland Restoration Grants Program 

http://www.scwrp.org/ 

Coastal Fund, UC Santa Barbara, Associated 

Students 

http://coastalfund.as.ucsb.edu/

71 

Permits 

Guide to Watershed Project Permitting for the 

State of California. 

California Association of Resource Conservation 

Districts 

3823 V Street, Suite 3 

Sacramento, California 95817 

(916) 457-7904 • Fax (916) 457-7934 

www.carcd.org 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 

Ventura Field Office 

(805) 585-2140 

California Coastal Commission – Coastal 

Development Permit 

South Central Coast District 

(805) 585-1800 

California Department of Fish and Game 

Region 5 (South Coast Region) 

4949 View Ridge Ave. 

(858) 467-4201 

California Regional Water Quality Control Board 

Central Coast Region 

San Luis Obispo, CA 

(805) 549-3147 

City of Goleta 

Planning Department 

(805) 961-7543

72 

Glossary 

Acute: sharp, pointed. 

Allelopathic: A plant that emits chemicals that retard 

the growth or seed germination of other plants. 

Alternate: Leaves that are staggered, one per stem 

node, not placed directly across from each 

other on the stem. 

Annual: A plant that completes its entire life cycle 

within one year – germinates, grows, flowers, 

sets seed, and dies. 

Anther: The male part of a flower which produces the 

pollen. 

Awn: A stiff bristle-like appendage of a plant, 

commonly seen projecting from the tip of a 

floret in grasses. 

Basal: Borne at or near the base. 

Biennial: A plant with a life cycle that is completed in 

two years. 

Bract: A modified leaf growing just below a flower or 

cluster of flowers. 

Bractlet: A secondary bract. 

Compound leaf: A leaf composed of multiple leaflets. 

Dicot: A subdivision of flowering plants whose 

members produce two seed leaves 

(cotelydons). These plants have net-like leaf 

veins and flower parts in multiples of four or 

five. 

Dioecious: Having male and female flowers on 

separate plants. 

Disk flower: A small, five petaled flower found in the 

center, or disk, of a larger, composite flower, 

such as a sunflower. 

Elliptic: Widest at the middle and tapering equally 

toward both ends; tapered oval. 

Floret: The smallest unit of a compound flower. The 

term used for a grass flower. 

Forb: A broad-leaved herbaceous plant (an herbaceous 

plant other than a grass, sedge, or other grasslike 

plant). 

Genus: A taxonomic rank for organisms that is above 

the level of species, used to group species with 

common attributes. 

Glume: A bract (usually in pairs) at the base of a grass 

spikelet. 

Herb: A plant lacking a permanent woody stem. 

Inflorescence: A cluster of flowers on a plant. 

Invasive: A plant that establishes easily and spreads 

aggressively into new areas and environments, 

often with detrimental effects on native plant 

species. 

Lanceolate: Lance-shaped, much longer than wide, 

tapering toward the tip. 

Leaflet: Leaf-like divisions of a compound leaf. 

Lemma: The lower of two bracts of a grass floret. 

Ligule: In grasses, the thin outgrowth from the inner 

surface of a leaf where the sheath and leaf 

blade join. 

Loamy soil: Loam is soil composed of sand, silt, and 

clay in relatively even concentration and is 

generally favorable to plant growth. 

Lobed: Divided into segments with spaces between 

which do not reach the center. 

Monocot: A subdivision of flowering plants 

whose members produce a single seed leaf 

(cotelydon). Monocots include grasses, rushes, 

and sedges. These plants have parallel major 

leaf veins and flower parts in multiples of 

three. 

Native: A plant that is naturally found in an area (as 

opposed to a plant that people introduced into 

an area). 

Node: The small swelling that is the part of a plant 

stem from which one or more leaves or 

branches emerge. 

Non-native: A plant that has been introduced into an 

area directly or indirectly by people. 

Oblanceolate: A leaf shape that is widest near the tip 

and tapers to a narrower base. 

Oblong: Longer than broad, with nearly parallel sides. 

Obovate: Egg shaped, widest toward tip. The 

opposite of ovate. 

Opposite: Leaves that are situated directly across the 

stem from each other, two per stem node.

73 

Ovate: Egg shaped, widest toward the base. 

Panicle: An elongated, branched flower cluster. 

Flowers are borne on stalks that branch off 

larger stalks. 

Pedicel: The stalk of an individual flower. 

Perennial: A plant that continues to live and grow 

year to year. Some plants die back to the 

ground each year and initiate new growth in 

the spring, while others retain green leaves 

year round. 

Petals: Modified leaves surrounding the reproductive 

parts in a flower. They are usually colored or 

white. 

Pinnately compound: Compound leaves in which 

the leaflets are arranged along each side of the 

main vein. 

Pinnately lobed: Leaves that have indentations 

arranged along each side of the main vein, with 

lobes not entirely separate from each other. 

Ray flower: The petal-like flowers surrounding the 

central disk of some composite inflorescences. 

Rhizomatous: A plant that produces rhizomes and can 

thus spread vegetatively. 

Rhizome: A horizontal underground stem. 

Sepals: The leaf-like structures located beneath the 

petals of a flower that protect the developing 

flower bud. 

Sheath: The lower part of the leaf that encloses the 

stem. 

Spike: A long, slender floral structure with individual 

flowers directly attached to the stalk. 

Spikelet: A grass inflorescence usually composed of 

one or more florets subtended by two glumes. 

Stigma: The tip of the female part of a flower, which 

receives the pollen grains. 

Stolon: A stem that runs along the soil surface and can 

produce roots and shoots at the nodes, giving 

rise to additional plants. 

Strigose: With stiff, straight, sharp hairs parallel to the 

surface. 

Style: Slender column that arises from the ovary of a 

plant and supports the stigma. 

Tomentose: Covered with densely interwoven, 

generally matted hairs. 

Tufted: Describes a grass that grows in a compact 

cluster attached at the base. 

Umbel: An umbrella shaped inflorescence, with 

pedicels all arising from the same point. 

Vernal pool: Shallow, temporary pool of water 

found in a landscape depression underlain by 

impermeable soils. 

Whorled: Three or more leaves, bracts, branches, or 

flowers in a circular arrangement originating 

from the same point.

74 

References 

The following sources were used in developing this guide: 

Calflora. Information on wild California plants for conservation, education, and appreciation. Berkely, CA. 

http://www.calflora.org/ 

California Department of Pesticide Regulation. Licensing. http://www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/license/currlic.htm 

De Rome, D. Poly Land Revisited: A Field Guide. M.S. Thesis. 1997. California Polytechnic State 

University San Luis Obispo. . 

Encycloweedia Data Sheets. California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA). 2008. 

. 

Ferren, W. R. Jr., D. M. Hubbard, S. Wiesman, A. K. Parikh, and N. Gale. 1998. Review of ten years 

of vernal pool restoration and creation in Santa Barbara, California. pp. 206-216 in C. W. Witham, ed., 

Ecology, Conservation and Management of Vernal Pool Ecosystems. California Native Plant Society. 

Sacramento, California. 

Fire Effects Information. USDA Forest Service. 2008. . 

Flora of North America. eFloras.org. 2008. 

. 

Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN). Agricultural Research Service. United States 

Department of Agriculture. 2008. . 

Global Invasive Species Inventory. The Global Invasive Species Team. The Nature Conservancy. 2008. 

. 

Grass Manual on the Web. Intermountain Herbarium. Utah State University, Logan UT 84322. 2001-2002. 

< http://herbarium.usu.edu/webmanual/default.htm>. 

Hickman, J. C. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. Berkeley: University of California Press. 

1993. 

Holloran, P., Mackenzie, A., Farrell, S., Johnson, D. The Weed Worker’s Handbook: A Guide to Techniques 

for Removing Bay Area Invasive Plants. Richmond, CA: The Watershed Project and California Invasive 

Plant Council. 2004. 

Keeler-Wolf, T., D. R. Elam, K. Lewis, and S. A. Flint. California Vernal Pool Assessment Preliminary 

Report. California Department of Fish and Game. 1998.

75 

Plant Profiles. California Invasive Plant Council. 2006-2008. . 

Plants Database. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. October 2008. . 

Rosatti, T., Wetherwax, M., Greenhouse, J., Moe, R. Jepson Online Interchange. Jepson Flora Project. 

2008. Regents of the University of California. . 

Smith, C. F. A Flora of the Santa Barbara Region, California, Second Edition. Santa Barbara: Santa 

Barbara Botanic Garden and Capra Press. 1998. 

Stone, R.D. 1990. California’s endemic vernal pool plants: Some factors influencing their rarity and 

endangerment. In Ikeda, D.H. and R.A. Schlising. Vernal pool plants: Their habitat and biology. Studies 

from the Herbarium No. 8. pp. 89-108. California State University, Chico. 

UC IPM Weed Photo Gallery. University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program. 

2008. Statewide IPM Program, Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California. . 

Ventura County Planning Division. Guide to Native and Invasive Streamside Plants: Restoring Habitats in 

Ventura County & along the Santa Clara River in Los Angeles County. Ventura, CA: Ventura County Planning 

Department. 2006. 

Wilken, D. Rare Plants of Santa Barbara County v. 1.8, rev. Aug 6, 2007. Santa Barbara, CA: Central 

Coast Center for Plant Conservation, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. 2007. 

Witham, C. W. Plants of Mather Field. Vernalpools.org. 2004 

.

76 

Index: Plants by Name 

Alopecurus saccatus (A. howellii), 16, 64 

Anagallis arvensis, 59, 64 

Atriplex semibaccata, 46, 64 

Australian saltbush, 46, 64 

Avena barbata, 45, 64 

Avena fatua, 45, 64 

Barley, California, 10, 11, 37, 66 

Barley, foxtail, 37, 67 

Barley, meadow, 10, 11, 37, 66 

Barley, Mediterranean, 37, 66 

Bermuda grass, 6, 7, 20, 38, 65 

Bindweed, 47, 65 

Blue-eyed grass, 12, 69 

Bolboschoenus maritimus, 14, 64 

Brass buttons, 48, 65 

Brassica nigra, 57, 64 

Brassica rapa, 57, 64 

Bristly ox tongue, 36, 49, 66 

Bromus diandrus, 43, 64 

Brown-headed rush, 18, 67 

Bur-clover, 50, 67 

Calandrinia ciliata, 29, 64 

California bulrush, 13, 69 

California water starwort, 24, 65 

Callitriche marginata, 24, 65 

Centromadia parryi ssp. australis, 33, 65 

Coast allocarya (coast popcorn flower), 25, 68 

Common spikerush, 4, 21, 65 

Convolvulus arvensis, 47, 65 

Cortaderia jubata, 41, 65 

Cortaderia selloana, 41, 65 

Cotula coronopifolia, 48, 65 

Coyote-thistle, 26, 27, 66 

Coyote-thistle, prickly, 27, 66 

Crassula aquatica, 34, 65 

Curly dock, 3, 6, 51, 68 

Cut-leaved geranium, 3, 52, 66 

Cynodon dactylon, 38, 65 

Cyperus eragrostis, 23, 65 

Distichlis spicata, 20, 38, 65 

Elatine brachysperma, 30, 65 

Eleocharis acicularis, 22, 65 

Eleocharis macrostachya, 4, 21, 65, 68 

English plantain, 3, 53 

Epilobium pygmaeum, 32, 66 

Erodium botrys, 55, 66 

Erodium cicutarium, 55, 66 

Erodium moschatum, 55, 66 

Eryngium armatum, 27, 66 

Eryngium vaseyi, 26, 66 

Fennel, 1, 54, 66 

Filaree, broad leaf , 55, 66 

Filaree, redstem, 55, 66 

Filaree, whitestem, 55, 66 

Foeniculum vulgare, 54, 66 

Geranium dissectum, 52, 66 

Grindelia camporum, 28, 66 

Gumplant, 28, 66 

Harding grass, 39, 68 

Helminthotheca echioides, 49, 66 

Hirschfeldia incana, 57, 66 

Hordeum brachyantherum ssp. branchyantherum, 

11, 66 

Hordeum branchyantherum ssp. californicum, 10, 66 

Hordeum marinum, 37, 66 

Hordeum murinum, 37, 66 

Hyssop loosestrife, 3, 56, 67 

Italian rye grass, 3, 40, 67 

Juncus occidentalis, 19, 67 

Juncus phaeocephalus, 18, 67 

Lactuca serriola, 58, 67 

Lemmon’s canarygrass, 15, 39, 68 

Lolium multiflorum, 40, 67 

Lythrum hyssopifolium, 56, 67 

Medicago polymorpha, 50, 67 

Mustard, black, 57, 64 

Mustard, field, 57, 64 

Mustard, Mediterranean hoary, 57, 64 

Nassella pulchra, 17, 67 

Needle spikerush, 22, 65 

Pacific foxtail, 16, 64 

Pampas grass, 41, 65 

Phalaris aquatica, 39, 68 

Phalaris lemmonii, 15, 39, 68

Piptatherum miliaceum, 44, 68 

Plagiobothrys undulatus, 25, 68 

Plantago lanceolata, 53, 68 

Polypogon monspeliensis, 42, 68 

Prairie bulrush, 14, 64 

Prickly lettuce, 58, 67 

Psilocarphus brevissimus, 35, 68 

Purple needlegrass, 17, 43, 67 

Purple pampas grass, 41, 65 

Rabbitfoot grass, 3, 42, 68 

Raphanus sativus, 3, 68 

Red maids, 29, 64 

Ripgut brome, 3, 43, 64 

Rumex acetosella, 60, 68 

Rumex crispus, 51, 68 

Saltgrass, 20, 38, 65 

Scarlet pimpernel (poor-man’s weatherglass), 59, 64 

Schoenoplectus californicus, 13, 69 

Scirpus californicus, 13 

Sheep sorrel, 60, 68 

Short seed waterwort, 30, 65 

Sisyrinchium bellum, 12, 69 

Slender aster, 31, 69 

Smilo grass, 44, 68 

Smooth spike-primrose (pygmy epilobium), 32, 66 

Sonchus arvensis, 61, 69 

Sonchus asper, 61, 69 

Sonchus oleraceus, 61, 69 

Southern tarplant, 33, 65 

Sowthistle, annual, 61, 69 

Sowthistle, perennial, 61, 69 

Sowthistle, prickly, 61, 69 

Symphyotrichum subulatum var. ligulatum, 31, 69 

Tall flatsedge, 23, 65 

Vetch, 3, 62, 69 

Vicia, 62, 69 

Water pygmyweed, 34, 65 

Western rush, 19, 67 

Wild oat, 45, 64 

Wild radish, 63, 68 

Woolly marbles, 35, 68 

77

Guide to Native and Invasive Plants Storke Ranch Vernal ... - Cram

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