Chaenactis fremontii, with the common names Frémont's pincushion and desert pincushion, is a species of annual wildflower in the daisy family. Both the latter common name, and the specific epithet are chosen in honor of John C. Frémont. Distribution and habitat Chaenactis fremontii is native to the Southwestern United States and northern Baja California. It grows in sandy and gravelly soils in the deserts and low mountains, such as the Mojave Desert in California and the Sonoran Desert habitats. It is found in California, Baja California, Arizona, Nevada, and southern Utah. Description Chaenactis fremontii grows in patches of long stems up to long that are green when new and grow reddish with age. They may branch to extend many tall, almost naked stems. The sparse leaves are somewhat fleshy and long and pointed. Atop each erect stem is an inflorescence bearing usually one but sometimes more flower heads, each with plentiful densely packed disc florets. There may be very large ray florets around the edge of the discoid head. The flowers are white or very light pink. References External links Calflora Database: Chaenactis fremontii (Fremont pincushion) fremontii Flora of the Southwestern United States Flora of California Flora of Baja California Flora of the California desert regions Flora of the Sonoran Deserts Natural history of the California chaparral and woodlands Natural history of the Mojave Desert Natural history of the Peninsular Ranges Natural history of the Transverse Ranges Plants described in 1883 Taxa named by Asa Gray Flora without expected TNC conservation status