Plant Science
Bringing citizens and experts together
CNPS is proud to be a conservation organization grounded in science. For six decades, CNPS has led the study and understanding of California’s native plants. From field guidelines and vegetation reports to the foundational Rare Plant Inventory and ranking system, CNPS serves as a daily resource for government agency staff, academics, and students. Today, CNPS and its partners are expanding that knowledge base with exciting new projects in big data mapping, locally rare species, and citizen science. Please consider supporting our efforts today!
Saving What Matters Most
CNPS is leading an ambitious effort to create California’s first conservation index for plants. Region by region we’re pulling together the experts and data needed to protect vital species and places for generations to come. See what’s happening near you!
Plant Science Programs and Resources
Rare Plants
Learn about our current work in rare plant review, ranking, and rescue that’s engaging citizen scientists and PhDs alike.
Vegetation Program
See how we’re working to understand and save entire habitats surrounding our most sensitive species.
In the Field
Access best practice forms and resources for your work.

Rare Plant Status Review Forum
Sign up to be a participating member of the review forum.
From the Blog
-
A CNPS chapter field trip yields an intriguing new discovery—the presence of spotted coralroot orchid (Corallorhiza maculata) in a new place!
-
An Amateur Botanist Finds the Rare Geothallus Tuberosus
Follow an amateur botanist as he explores a canyon in his San Diego neighborhood and makes an exciting discovery. -
In The Field: Exploring Big Lagoon Fen
In the Field: CNPS Staff and volunteers sampled the peatland Big Lagoon Fen, a sensitive natural community on California's North Coast.