Native to South Africa, oncosiphon pilulifer has become established in two main areas of the US, from San Diego to Los Angeles in California, and the Greater Phoenix area in Arizona; it is classed as invasive. Its common name, stinknet, references the strong, unpleasant odor of all parts of the plant.
Plants produce several stems, branching from the base. Leaves are finely divided into narrow, linear, gland-dotted lobes, finely hairy. The inflorescence is a small cluster, of up to four globular yellow flowerheads, about a third of an inch across, which contain disc florets only. Flowerheads are attached by slender stalks around one inch in length, lacking any bracts.
Common names:
Stinknet, globe chamomile
Family:
Scientific name:
Oncosiphon pilulifer
Main flower color:
Range:
Southern California and southwest Arizona (non-native)
Height:
Up to 20 inches
Habitat:
Chaparral, coastal bluffs, disturbed ground
Leaves:
Alternate, obovate, two or three times divided into short, narrow lobes. Up to 1.5 inches long
Season:
March to June
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