Taraxacum californicum, also known as the California dandelion, is an endangered species of dandelion endemic to the San Bernardino Mountains of California. It grows in mountain meadows.[1] Taraxacum californicum is a small perennial wildflower which resembles its close relative, the widespread weed known as the common dandelion (T. officinale). T. californicum has green, red-veined, lobed or toothed leaves and yellow flower heads yielding brown and white fruits.
There are fewer than 20 occurrences known of the plant, and several occurrences include just a few individuals.[2] The plant can hybridize with the common dandelion, causing genetic pollution.[2]