Desert Gold Parsnip*
Aphyllon tuberosum
Care
full sun
1–1ft tall
Friendly
Southeastern California in Inyo and Mono counties, 4000-8000 ft elevation, in desert scrub and sagebrush
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Desert Gold Parsnip in full sun in a location where it can access the roots of established shrubs - chamise is its preferred host plant in nature. This parasitic plant is native to California chaparral and thrives in the Bay Area's dry, warm microclimates. Space it near compatible host shrubs and plant in fall or winter to establish before summer heat.
After Planting
The biggest mistake is trying to grow this plant as a standalone specimen. Desert Gold Parsnip depends entirely on parasitizing nearby shrub roots for survival, so it will not thrive in isolation or in pots. Once established near an appropriate host plant in full sun, this species is extremely drought-tolerant and requires minimal intervention - water only during establishment and then allow it to rely on its host plant.
Visit Calscape for more information about Desert Gold Parsnip*
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
Brush rabbit is a Species of Special Concern
Wildlife Supported
Mammals
Omnivorous diet including plant material; tubers accessible in rocky outcrops
Browsing on available herbaceous vegetation during growing season in grassland and scrub
Native herbivore utilizing available plant material year-round in scrub habitat
Herbivorous grazing on above-ground stems and tubers when accessible
As non-native established in limited California areas; herbivorous diet