Safflower

Carthamus tinctorius

Warm season, annual broadleaf often cultivated for vegetable oil and birdseed. Prefers deep, fertile soils. Substantial taproot (8-10 ft.) allows plants to thrive in arid to semiarid conditions, breaks up compacted soils and draws-up and accumulates nutrients from lower subsoils. Also works in irrigated systems and some areas receiving higher rainfall. Moderate quality forage for grazing or hay if used before it becomes too prickly. Good pollinator species, increasing the presence of beneficial insects and reducing pressure from pest insects.