Deerweed
Acmispon glaber
Also listed as Syrmatium glabrum, Anisolotus glaber
Also known as Common Deerweed, California Broom, Deer Clover
Climate Match for your location
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A low, spreading native shrub with small pinnate leaves and delicate yellow flowers. Extremely drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance.
Why grow it
Acmispon glaber outperforms many ornamental ground covers in water-limited conditions, establishing quickly in poor or sandy soils where other natives struggle. It fixes nitrogen through its root nodules, improving soil fertility over time without fertilizer inputs. Its low stature and fine texture make it useful for erosion control on slopes or as a living mulch in polyculture plantings.
Watch out for
Growth can be slow in the first season while the root system establishes; supplemental water during this period yields better results than relying on summer drought tolerance from the start. In very humid or poorly drained sites, the plant is prone to fungal issues, so ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fabaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California native
Native to: Arizona, California
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A low, spreading native shrub with small pinnate leaves and delicate yellow flowers. Extremely drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Deerweed grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Acmispon glaber outperforms many ornamental ground covers in water-limited conditions, establishing quickly in poor or sandy soils where other natives struggle. It fixes nitrogen through its root nodules, improving soil fertility over time without fertilizer inputs. Its low stature and fine texture make it useful for erosion control on slopes or as a living mulch in polyculture plantings.
Watch out for
Growth can be slow in the first season while the root system establishes; supplemental water during this period yields better results than relying on summer drought tolerance from the start. In very humid or poorly drained sites, the plant is prone to fungal issues, so ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fabaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California native
Native to: Arizona, California
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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