Desert indian wheat

Plantago ovata

Formerly Plantago insularis. Short drought tolerant native annual with small white inconspicuous flowers, blooming January to May. Common to abundant within its range on dry desert plains, mesas and roadsides; up to 4,000 ft. elevation. Establishes easily, carpeting the desert floor after especially rainy winters. Seeds are coated with a sticky substance which glues-down topsoil, reducing erosion in years with ample seed production.