Malacothrix foliosa subsp. polycephala

Stems usually 1, erect, branched distally. Distal cauline leaves narrowly triangular, usually pinnately lobed (near bases, lobes 1-2 pairs, narrow). Calyculi of 8-12+, oblong to linear bractlets. Involucres 5-7 × 2-4.5 mm. Phyllaries 12-16+ in 2-3 series. Corollas medium yellow, 5-9 mm; outer ligules exserted 1.5-3.5 mm. Cypselae ± cylindro-fusiform, 0.9-1.5 mm, ribs ± equal. 2n = 14.

Flowering Mar-Jul. Open sandy areas, dunes, between shrubs in chaparral; 0-100 m; Calif.

Subspecies polycephala is known only from San Nicolas Island.