Welcome to the Plant Pages, where you will find an introduction to 25 common plants of Upper Newport Bay. This is a product of a dedicated and talented volunteer, Don Millar, who photographed plants for over three years to capture the blooms and seeds during their season. The pictures and descriptions should help you recognize the plants you will encounter during restoration projects and on outings in this habitat. You can find a larger index of Upper Newport Bay plants by visiting the Newport Bay Naturalists and Friends website.

Right Column

Deerweed (Lotus Scoparius)

Plant: A sprawling perennial shrub up to 3 feet high with slender, branching stems. Nitrogen fixing bacteria associated with the plant's roots convert nitrogen gas into nitrates useable by plants as food.
Flowers: The many golden-yellow flowers, often seen with a hint of red, arise on short, little stalks from a single point. These groups are dispersed up the main stem. The flowers are the characteristic pea shape.
Stem, Flower and Seed Pod: The 3-parted, narrow, oblong leaves are sparse along the stems. The pods, with 2 or 3 dark brown seeds, taper to a slender point. Leaf: Alternate on stems, 3 oblong leaflets 1/8 to 3/8 inches long.