Lotus scoparius Deerweed is a short- lived ( 7-20 years! ) perennial in the pea family. From spring through summer this plant is covered in small yellow flowers. Deerweed is a pioneer species in nature and helps to fertilize (adds nitrogen with the help of symbiotic bacteria) the soil naturally. That is, when a plant community is disturbed deerweed emerges and helps to reestablish the plant community. This can be very useful in restoration or in a garden situation. You can use it to help establish your plant community in your garden if you start with a new house on a bare lot. Deerweed is very drought tolerant. As the plant community matures deerweed gradually disappears.
Syn. Acmispon glaber.
Foliage of Lotus scoparius is deciduous.
Flower of Lotus scoparius has color yellow.
Communities for Lotus scoparius:Chaparral, Coastal Sage Scrub and Coastal Strand.