Crisp Monardella
(Monardella crispa )
Lamiaceae

Photo Copyright Rick York and CNPS

Description: Perennial, bushy, strong smelling herb with rhizomes. Has branches 8 - 16 inches (2-4dm) long, and stems covered with densely matted, white, curly hairs. The leaves are thick, fleshy, oblong to spatulate shape, 5/8 - 1 inch (1.5-2.5cm) long, and have crisped edges. Leaf stems are 3/8 inch (8mm) long. Inflorescence are heads, 3/4 - 1 1/8 inches (2-3cm) across. The flowers contain a woolly calyx, 1/4 inch (6mm) long, staw-colored or purple bracts, 1/4 - 5/16 inches (7-8mm) long, and purple corollas 3/8 - 1/2 inch (10-12mm) long.

Distribution:

Habitat: Unstable coastal dunes and beaches. Elevation 32 - 384 feet.

Flowering Period: Blooms April - August.

Similar Plants:

Status: BLM Sensitive, California Native Plant Society List 1B