PLANTS
Torrey Pine (Pinus Torreyana)
The Torrey Pine, the rarest species of pine trees, is an endangered species that has a home in the San Diego County. Communities of Torrey Pines provides shelter to a variety of wildlife and food from its seeds, but the loss of its seeds, their locations near high levels of air pollution, and their low genetic variability diminishes its chance for large populations in the future. This California endemic species has adapted to a maritime chaparral of generally foggy times and low rainfall during winter. This pine tree stands between 25 to 60 feet in height, and the oldest Torrey Pines are approximately 150 years of age.
POISON OAK (TOXICODENDRON DIVERSILOBUM)
Poison oak is very common throughout California, and as a result, it is of least concern in terms of conservation. In the chaparral it primarily grows around disturbed areas such as trails and canyons. They may be shrubs or vines and commonly lean or sprawl on other plants. It has a three part leaf with leaflets 1-4 inches long. Touching it can cause a rash of itchy, oozing blisters. The oil from the plants can persist on clothing and other possessions. Contaminated items should be washed thoroughly, in order to prevent new rashes. Exposed skin should be washed gently.
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California buckeye (Aesculus Californica)
The California Buckeye prefers hillsides and canyons in the chaparral. It varies from the size of a large shrub to a small tree. Leaves consist of five to seven leaflets. They drop their leaves at the beginning of summer and remain leafless until the winter rains. They also produce shiny brown fruits known as "buckeyes". All parts of this plant are poisonous to humans.
California blue oak (Quercus Douglasii)
Blue oaks are adapted to drought and dry climates. The average height of this tree is around 30 feet. They produce acorns that are important food sources for birds and rodents.
Coyote brush (bacharis pilularis)
The coyote brush is a very common chaparral plant. It is a wiry and woody evergreen that looks like a bush. It can adapt and have different shapes depending on its location. The leaves have a coating that acts as a fire retardant. In addition, the leaves also produce oils that taste bad to predators. It has a large root system to take maximum advantage of any rain that seeps into the ground. These various survival tricks make it very common. It provides shelter and nectar for various animals.
common sagebrush (Artemisia Tridentata)
The sagebrush is a perennial shrub with straight and stiff stems. It can be 2 to 12 feet tall. It has adaptations for the dry climate of the chaparral. For example, it ahs deep roots in order to obtain more water.