In the area dominated by Coast Live Oaks (Quercus agrifolia). A lush growth of grass covers the ground. The plant is over 2 meters high. Various Native American peoples had many different uses for many parts of this plant, including to make a poultice for bruises; food (young stalks & leaf stems); drinking straws for the old and infirm; flutes for children. A yellow dye can be made from the roots, and an infusion of the flowers can be rubbed on the body to repel insects. Farmer consider this a pernicious weed; it can ruin the milk of cows that eat it. (Wikipedia 5/17/2011)