California Sheepburr
Acaena californica
Care
full sun
moderate
0–2ft tall
Resistant
Friendly
Coastal scrub and grasslands from Santa Cruz County south to San Diego County, below 2000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant California Sheepburr in full sun - it needs direct light to thrive. Choose a spot with good drainage, mimicking the open grasslands and rocky slopes where it grows naturally in the Bay Area. Space plants according to your desired coverage, keeping in mind this is a low-growing perennial (under 2 feet tall) that works well as a lawn alternative.
After Planting
Water moderately during establishment, tapering off as the plant matures since it's adapted to California's dry conditions. The biggest mistake is overwatering; this native plant prefers drier conditions once established, so resist the urge to keep it constantly moist. Expect year one to focus on root development rather than dramatic growth.
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Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
Brush rabbit is a Species of Special Concern
California Species of Special Concern
Wildlife Supported
Birds
seed consumption during seed production and availability periods
opportunistic foraging on small seeds in coastal sage scrub
Mammals
opportunistic browsing of herbaceous vegetation, especially in spring growth phase
primary herbaceous forager in coastal scrub and chaparral habitats