At this time of year, the dry vernal pools at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge are dotted with saline tolerant, warm-season perennials. Join botanists from the Refuge to see plants such as alkali heliotrope (Heliotropium curassavicum), alkali mallow (Malvella leprosa) and alkali weed (Cressa truxillensis). Super bloomers like common spikeweed (Centromadia pungens) and alkali heath (Frankenia salina) display masses of flowers, providing important sources of nectar to pollinators.

We’ll also seek out rare or unusual plants including Congdon’s tarplant (Centromadia parryi ssp. congdonii), San Joaquin spearscale (Extriplex joaquinana) and Atriplex species.

This tour takes place in the Refuge’s Warm Springs Unit in Fremont. Come see some of the many unique plants of the South Bay’s largest vernal pool grassland.

RSVP is required to join the walk. Since this walk is open to CNPS members only, please ensure your CNPS membership is current. Or visit www.cnps.org to become a member. No drop-ins please and space is limited. To register, please contact Aidona Kakouros at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Please indicate in your email 1) that you are interested in the “Power to the Pollinators” tour, 2) how many guests you are bringing, 3) your CNPS Chapter and 4) preferred email to send directions and any other notifications related to the event you are interested in.

Directions to the meeting site will be provided nearer to the event date.