Some Common Plants of Upper Newport Bay

Cliff Aster  (Malacothrix saxatilis)
Plant: Perennial herb, 2 to 6 feet tall, usually several stems grow at an angle from the crown root.
Flowers: White with rose tint especially on back of petals, 5 teeth on tip of petal, about 1-1/4 inches in diameter.  Has more petals than Twiggy-wreath Plant and flower stems are attached along the main stem while Twiggy-wreath flowers are at the top of the stems.
Leaf: 1 to 4 inches long, lower leaves usually coarse toothed, upper leaves smooth edged.
Flowering period:   March to September
Use by Indians:  
Can be found here: Back Bay Dr. near Shellmaker Island
Native Plant: Yes Halophyte: No
Family Name: Sunflower
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Date:  11/7/2003