Rare Plants

Fighting extinction, building understanding

Death valley beardtongue (Penstemon fruticiformis var. amargosae), CA Rare Plant Rank 1B.3; Image: Amber Swanson

Since its inception in 1968, the CNPS Rare Plant Program has been a trusted resource for scientific accuracy and integrity. CNPS rare plant data are widely accepted as the standard for information on the rarity and endangerment status of the California flora. Today, we’re using these data to fight extinction, engage citizen scientists, and inform land use decisions statewide. Support CNPS plant science today!

Rare Plant Inventory

First published in 1974, the Inventory is a widely-accepted authoritative resource on California’s rare and endangered plants. Now in its 8th edition online, it continues to play an important role in scientific research, conservation planning, and the effective enforcement of environmental laws. Learn more about the Inventory or access it now.

Astragalus pycnostachyus lanosissimus. Credit David Magney.

California Rare Plant Ranks

CRPR Definitions

Areas of Focus

Astragalus pycnostachyus lanosissimus. Credit David Magney.

Rare Plant Ranking & Review

Get details on the CNPS ranking categories and how plants are assigned each rank.

Mather vernal pool. Credit Greg Suba.

Locally Rare Plants

These species are critical to the preservation of regional genetic diversity. Here’s what you should know.

Four people looking at a rare Kern Canyon Clarkia — Looking at the rare Kern Canyon Clarkia

Endangered Species Protection

CNPS works to protect rare and endangered species through a number of key initiatives.

Rare Plant Forum

Credit David Magney.

Recent Stories

Rare Plants

Rare Plant of the Month: King’s gold

February 19, 2026

King’s gold is not named for a mythical treasure. Its origins lie in King’s County, where most of the plant’s populations were originally found, and the gold color of its flowers. But it may be as rare as gold.
Rare Plants

Rare Plant of the Month: Palmer’s jackass-clover

January 23, 2026

This month’s rare plant celebrates the one-year anniversary of the designation of Chuckwalla National Monument, which is home to nearly 50 rare plants—including Palmer’s jackass-clover (Cleomella palmeri).
Rare Plants

Rare Plant of the Month: Panamint desert-aster

December 19, 2025January 13, 2026

Panamint desert-aster is known to live solely in Death Valley National Park; only eight occurrences have been found in the Cottonwood Mountains in the Panamint Range.

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