It's often the case that visitors from the east rejoice in and/or lament the lack of seasons in Southern California.

But as we develop a relationship with the natural world around us it's not hard to start recognizing that change, even in the city of dreaming angels, is constant. You just have to know where (and when) to look.

Over time you start to see many unique markers of the passage of time - whether it's the wintry arrival of the bigpod ceanothus bloom speckling the hillsides white in January, the rolling in of May Gray or June Gloom, the twice-blooming jacaranda, the browning of the buckwheat, the reddening of the toyon, or in this case, the Giant Blazing Star, just to name a few, the relentless march of time and the parade of seasons never ceases, even in Lalaland.

The Giant Blazing Star is often recognized by its exceptionally large, star-shaped flowers. These flowers are composed of five narrow, pointed petals that exhibit a shiny yellow color. The plant itself can grow up to 3 feet in height, making it an easily recognizable plant in its native habitats.

The stem of the Giant Blazing Star is covered in a whitish bark. It's sometimes called "nature's velcro" because of the tiny hooks that cover its leaves causing them to catch on fabric or fur.

The Giant Blazing Star is typically a biennial plant (meaning it completes its life cycle over two years), or, a short-lived perennial. If biennial, in its first year, the plant develops a deep taproot and produces a low, broad mound of rough, gray-green, coarsely toothed leaves.

In the second year, the plant grows significantly taller, and this is when it produces its distinctive star-like flowers.

This plant is a hardy species, able to survive harsh, sandy, rocky, dry, and often disturbed environments. The Giant Blazing Star is not just a beautiful wildflower to admire in its native habitat. Its seeds are also available for cultivation, making it possible for gardeners and plant enthusiasts to introduce this unique plant into their own gardens.

Native Americans used the Giant Blazing Star to treat a range of ailments.

The leaves and roots were applied to burns, wounds and skin irritations to aid in healing. Its seeds, rich in nutrients, were used as a food source.

Habitat and Range

So where can one encounter this majestic botanical wonder? It can be found throughout the western U.S. and Canada. But in Southern California you need look no further than Griffith Park, one of Los Angeles' most beloved natural treasures. Nestled within this urban oasis lies an ecosystem teeming with biodiversity.

And it is here that the Giant Blazing Star has made its home among sandy rocky slopes, roadcuts, and washes.

As you traverse the winding trails of Griffith Park, keep your eyes peeled for these magnificent flowers along the slopes and canyons in areas of disturbance.

Their vibrant yellow petals stand out against the backdrop of earth tones a picture of resilience.

Nature has a way of orchestrating its own symphony throughout the year. And when it comes to the Giant Blazing Star, late summer is their time to shine.

Picture this: as the sun's rays beat down on Griffith Park's rugged terrain, these resilient blooms burst forth, painting the rugged rocky landscapes with shocks of golden hues. By fall they've gone to seed.

Enough! Where Can I See It?

While Griffith Park offers numerous trails to explore, there is one particular spot that stands out for catching a glimpse of the Giant Blazing Star: the Bronson Caves.

As you hike the short path to the caves, take a moment to notice what else might be enjoying an out-of-season bloom after last month's heavy rains brought by Hurricane Hilary. And definitely check out the "Batcaves" made famous by numerous films and especially Adam West's iconic 1960s TV show.

But just around the corner from Bronson Caves in what looks like just gravel and rocks, if the timing is right you might discover more than just remnants of Hollywood history. Look carefully amidst the rocks and crevices, and you'll find clusters of Giant Blazing Star plants proudly displaying their resplendent blooms.

Even the name is cool. I remember when they first caught my eye, standing out as they do in barren environments and I looked them up in my wildflower guide. "Giant Blazing Star" indeed.

So, if you're longing for an escape from the city or a connection with nature, visit Griffith Park. You can leisurely stroll along its trails or challenge yourself to conquer its peaks. Whether you're a GP regular or just in town for a visit, keep an eye out for the Giant Blazing Star while they're still in bloom.

And, if you'd like to learn more about the natural world all around us and the history of Los Angeles and California, join us for a walking tour led by a Certified California Naturalist.