California Coastal Commission, Public Education Program, Upper Newport Bay Plants

Deerweed (Lotus Scoparius)

Plant: A sprawling perennial shrub up to 3 feet high with slender, branching stems. Nitrogen fixing bacteria associated with the plant's roots convert nitrogen gas into nitrates useable by plants as food.
Flowers: The many golden-yellow flowers, often seen with a hint of red, arise on short, little stalks from a single point. These groups are dispersed up the main stem. The flowers are the characteristic pea shape.
Stem, Flower and Seed Pod: The 3-parted, narrow, oblong leaves are sparse along the stems. The pods, with 2 or 3 dark brown seeds, taper to a slender point. Leaf: Alternate on stems, 3 oblong leaflets 1/8 to 3/8 inches long.