Hole-in-the-sand plant

Perennials, (5–)10–29 cm (deeply taprooted). Stems erect. Leaf blades 20–70 mm overall, lobes 5–11, ± quadrate to linear, rachis widths mostly 2–3 times lobe widths. Peduncles 2–10 mm. Calyculi of 2–4 bractlets 4–8 mm. Involucres turbinate to cylindric, 14–18 mm. Phyllaries 8–12, linear to ovate. Ray florets 8–12, laminae 4–9 × 2.5–4 mm. Disc florets (30–)60–100+; corollas yellow, purple-tipped, 8–9.5 mm. Cypselae 7–9 mm; pappi: bristles 3–7 mm, scales 6–8 mm. 2n = 20.

Flowering spring. Deep sands of fans and floors of desert washes; 600–1400 m; Calif.; Mexico (Baja California).