Linanthus demissus – “Humble Gilia”

Also Known As: Desert Snow, Desert Linanthus
Family: Phlox (Polemoniaceae)
Bloom Period: Mar-May
Form: Annual
Habitat: Limestone soils, desert pavement, sandy areas
Leaves: Pinnately divided into very narrow pointed leaflets; opposite
Translation: “Linanthus” is Greek for “flax flower” because flowers in this genus resemble those of Flax; “demissa” is Latin for “humble” or “lowly,” which fits this this low-growing, non-descript plant.
Notes: Petals slightly turned, like a windmill. Fragrant blossoms.