Bahiopsis laciniata aka San Diego County Sunflower

Bahiopsis laciniata is a small shrub in the aster family, Asteraceae. Its native range runs from California into northwestern Mexico. It has a low, mounded form rather than a tree-like shape. The plant can reach 5 feet (1.5 metres) in height. Its spread can also reach 5 feet (1.5 metres). These equal dimensions give the shrub a broad outline. Its flowers rise above the leaves on long stalks.

The leaves grow one at a time along the stems. Each leaf is simple, rather than divided into separate leaflets. Leaf shapes range from lanceolate to deltoid, or lance-shaped to triangular. They measure 2–3 inches long and have smooth, unbroken edges. The upper surface shines, while the underside looks silvery gray. Fine hairs cover that lower surface. This gives the two sides of each leaf a different look. The plant is evergreen when conditions allow it to keep leaves. During drought, it can shed them instead.

The stems have only a small amount of woody growth. Twigs are light reddish gray, with gray fuzz on young growth. The bark is gray and has shallow furrows. These stem features contrast with the shiny upper leaf surfaces. Both young twigs and leaf undersides carry a covering of hairs. The bark's grooves are shallow rather than deeply cut.

Bright yellow flower heads resemble daisies and measure about 2 inches across. They appear at twig tips, each held on a long stalk. The stalks lift the blooms well clear of the foliage. This places the flowers above the shrub's leafy mound. With enough moisture, the plant can flower throughout the year. That long flowering period depends on water being available. The fruit forms a cluster of small achenes. These are the small, dry fruits described for this species.

Its yellow flowers provide its clearest stated ornamental feature. The broad mound and raised blooms define its garden form. Water availability affects both flowering and whether it keeps leaves. The supplied evidence gives no soil, light, or hardiness limits. It also gives no specific pest or disease concerns. It does not establish edible uses or safety for people or pets.