Mohavea breviflora

Mohavea breviflora

Golden Desert Snapdragon

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Golden Desert SnapdragonShortflower Mohavea

Context

nativeRegion

Mojave and Sonoran deserts of the southwestern United States (California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah).

usdaZones

Zones 8–10; naturalized to desert climate conditions.

companionPlants

Ambrosia dumosa, Larrea tridentata, Encelia farinosa

culturalUses

No significant cultural or economic uses reported; valued for ecological role in desert wildflower displays.

Care

LightFull sun is essential; thrives in bright, open habitats.

WateringRequires minimal watering; drought-tolerant and adapted to arid conditions. Avoid excess moisture.

SoilPrefers well-draining, sandy or gravelly soils typical of desert regions.

FertilizerRarely needed; if cultivated, use a light cactus/succulent fertilizer sparingly.

HumidityPrefers low humidity environments typical of deserts.

TemperatureTolerates extreme heat; susceptible to frost damage if temperatures drop below freezing.

HabitAnnual herb with low, erect stems; often grows under or near desert shrubs.

Mature SizeTypically 10–30 cm (4–12 inches) tall.

Growth RateRapid growth during favorable conditions in spring following rain.

BloomingBlooms in spring (March–May) with cream to yellow, sac-like flowers.

DormancyDormant as seeds during dry/hot months; germinates rapidly after significant rainfall.

MethodsSeed

DifficultyModerate; requires simulation of desert rainfall for germination.

Best SeasonLate fall to winter, as seeds typically germinate after winter rains.

PruningNot necessary, as stems die back after flowering.

RepottingRarely cultivated in containers; repot as needed if grown as a novelty.

Pests & DiseasesFew notable pests or diseases due to extreme habitat; root rot possible if overwatered.

ToxicityNot known to be toxic to humans or animals.

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