Deerweed (Acmispon glaber) is in the Legumes family (Fabaceae). Across the U.S., iNaturalist users have logged 2,650 research-grade flowering observations of it in our sample, peaking in May.
Nationally it blooms mainly from March to June, but timing varies a lot by state and elevation — see the table below.
When to photograph Deerweed: observations by month (U.S.)
About Deerweed
Acmispon glaber (previously Lotus scoparius) (common deerweed, deer weed, deervetch, California broom or western bird's-foot trefoil) is a perennial subshrub in the family Fabaceae (pea family). The plant is a pioneer species found in dry areas of California, Arizona, and Mexico. It is commonly found in many areas including chaparral, coastal sand and roadsides at elevations below 1500 m.From Wikipedia via iNaturalist — article, CC BY-SA.
Deerweed by state
| State | Observations | Peak month | Main season |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 2,650 | May | Mar–Jun |
Main season = months with at least 30% of the state's peak-month count.
Related wildflowers (Legumes)
White Clover
Red Clover
Texas bluebonnet
Bird's-Foot Trefoil
Rose Clover
Tomcat Clover
American hog-peanut
Purple Crownvetch
Photography tips
- Photograph flowers on calm, overcast mornings to avoid wind blur and harsh shadows.
- Get low: a shallow depth of field (f/2.8–f/5.6) isolates a bloom against soft color.
- Stay on trails — trampling meadows kills plants and ruins next year's display.
- Try a kaleidoscope abstract of a single bloom with our online kaleidoscope tool.
FAQ
When is the best time to photograph Deerweed?
Nationally, May has the most observations, with the main season from March to June.
Where is Deerweed most often seen?
The most observations come from California.