Sairocarpus coulterianus, commonly known as Coulter’s Snapdragon, is an annual herb native to the chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands of southern California and Baja California, often flourishing in areas that have experienced recent fires. It typically grows with an erect stem that can reach up to 3 feet in height, sometimes leaning on nearby objects for support. The plant has sparse, linear leaves arranged in a basal rosette at the base of the stem. The inflorescence is woolly and displays showy white snapdragon-like flowers with hints of lavender or pink, particularly when they first open. Flowering occurs from March to May.

Coulter’s Snapdragon is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to colonize disturbed sites, making it a useful plant for restoration projects and native plant gardens. It requires minimal water once established, thriving in well-drained soils and full sun to part shade. While it is not commonly used in ornamental horticulture, its resilience and attractive flowers make it an interesting choice for wildflower meadows and informal garden settings. Gardeners should note that, as an annual, it completes its life cycle in one year and relies on self-seeding to persist in the garden.CC BY-SA 4.0