Rare Plants
Fighting extinction, building understanding

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.
CNPS Rare Plant Ranks
Areas of Focus
Rare Plant Ranking & Review
Get details on the CNPS ranking categories and how plants are assigned each rank.
Locally Rare Plants
These species are critical to the preservation of regional genetic diversity. Here’s what you should know.
Rare Plant Treasure Hunts
Professionals and citizen scientists working to monitor and track our most vulnerable species.
Recent Stories
-
CNPS auctions off a rare chance to name a newly described California native plant. This is the first time naming rights have been auctioned for a plant in California.
-
California Native Plant Society Signs Historic Settlement on Newhall Ranch Project
CNPS has settled a long-running dispute over the Newhall Ranch development project in northwestern Los Angeles County. The agreement with the owner secures major CNPS interests. -
Rare Plant Treasure Hunt Update: the CNPS De-Extinction Project
In early May, a team from the Rare Plant Program went down into the urban wilds of the greater Los Angeles area in search of plants presumed to be extinct.