Anza-Borrego Wildflower Guide 2.31

A field guide for beginners and experts featuring descriptions, keys, scientific names, and families for over 1300 plants, trees, and wildflowers. It allows for searching and sorting by both common and scientific names. You can search using partial name, scientific name, or family criteria.

To access the full guide on iOS, simply press the Full guide button within the application.

Is the guide complete?

The guide is currently as comprehensive as possible. New plants and flowers are continually being added following frequent desert excursions. While there may be some less common species missing, ongoing efforts are made to enhance its content over time.

When is the flower season?

The peak season for annual wildflowers typically spans from early February to late April, occasionally starting earlier with favorable monsoon rains. Subsequently, a variety of perennials bloom throughout the summer, fall, and into the subsequent year. Flowering patterns are influenced by localized rainfall, its timing, and volume.

Is every wildflower season the same?

No, wildflower seasons vary due to fluctuations in rainfall, temperatures, and altitude within the desert. The Anza-Borrego Desert region's altitudes range from under 1,000 feet to over 5,000 feet. Initial blooms are observed in lower elevations progressing upwards during spring.

Where can I find more information?

For additional information, please consider visiting our Facebook page and website. Feel free to reach out if you have any inquiries.

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What will this guide do for you?

The purpose of our guide is to assist in identifying the wildflowers you encounter by genus if not by species. It's important to note that becoming an expert will require time and experience. Identification can be challenging even for seasoned enthusiasts due to variations among species and subspecies.

It’s crucial not to solely rely on visual appearances when identifying flowers; always verify all relevant characteristics. Misidentification is a common pitfall to avoid.

If uncertain about a particular plant, consider posting it on iNaturalist.org or joining our project Flora of Anza-Borrego State Park and adjacent desert. We strive to review each submission thoroughly if adequate photos are provided. Alternatively, seek assistance by posting a request on our Facebook page; we or other community members will be ready to offer guidance.

*The Anza-Borrego Desert belongs to the Colorado Desert, a subset of the vast Sonoran Desert.