Tauschia arguta (southern umbrellawort) is a plant I have been wanting for a few years. It is perennial herb of woodlands and chaparral from San Luis Obispo county to northern Baja. A member of the Apiaceae (carrot family), the inflorescence consists of a compound umbel of many small yellow flowers. The leaves are finely toothed and somewhat shiny. The plant stays small and compact, growing to a maximum of about 2 ft. tall and wide, but usually less. It can be planted as a border or underneath shrubs and trees, and it is an important plant for a number of pollinators. Aesthetically, it is understated but very pretty, as you can see from the following photos.
Despite its good qualities, it is seldom grown by anyone, which has been frustrating for me. But this year I discovered a nursery that propagates Tauschia arguta. The nursery is called Growing Works and it is an activity of the Turning Point Foundation, a nonprofit whose mission is to provide job training, employment, and horticultural therapy to people with mental health challenges. What a wonderful combination of benefits - native plants and support for people experiencing difficulties! They are located in Camarillo (Ventura County). I haven't been there personally due to the pandemic. I bought five plants through my local plant vendor, Neel's Nursery in Encinitas. I don't know if they are going to continue to produce this plant, but if they hear from interested gardeners it might motivate them to do so. They may also decide to try some other less common natives. Get on their email list and support their vital work!
