Wyethia mollis
(Asteraceae)
The robust leaves are often only knee-high but they are hard to miss because they form a conspicuous component of wildflower displays in many parts of the Sierra Nevada. This species was often referred to as Indian wheat. In fact, it really does not resemble wheat, but the seeds were ground into flour which was an important food source. Emerging from a Sierra winter, the leaves unfurl from a tight roll, breaking out from wine-colored wrappings.
DISTRIBUTION: Open forests and dry rocky slopes from the Klamath and Cascade Ranges to the northern and central Sierra Nevada; 1200-3400 m.