The Scrophs, or Scrophulariaceae, are a very large family with many representatives in our Spring wildflower flora. Photos by Al Walker.
Hemiparasites take a little nourishment off a host after they germinate, but do no harm to the host.
Above is a common Paintbrush of Oak Woodlands and can be seen in Annadel Park. It is usually hosted by a shrub like Coyote Bush. Very common along our coastal bluffs and prairies. Tuck, Triphysaria eriantha Johnny Tuck or Butter and Eggs is an Owl's Clover very common in our hills. On the Santa Rosa Plain it occurs less commonly.