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

Rare Plant Treasure Hunts

Professionals and community scientists working to monitor and track our most vulnerable species.

Rare Plant Forum

Credit David Magney.

Recent Stories

Biodiversity Initiatives

Celebrate California Native Oak Day by Joining the Effort to Protect Them

November 3, 2023November 3, 2023

The CNPS California Oak Watch project focuses on collecting valuable data about oaks native to the California Floristic Province. To protect them, we need to know where they are, and with the help of people in our community, we can map them!
Conservation

Four Rare Plants Protected From Mining in Southern California National Forest

October 20, 2023October 20, 2023

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management has banned new mining for 50 years on 2,841 acres in the San Bernardino National Forest to protect critical habitat for four threatened and endangered plant species.
Conservation

California Permanently Protects Imperiled Wildflower Threatened by Gold Mining

October 11, 2023October 11, 2023

The Inyo rock daisy is a rare wildflower found only at the highest elevations of the southern Inyo Mountains. It lives on ancient carbonate bedrock on Conglomerate Mesa, which is threatened by gold mining.