Indian Warrior

Indian Warrior Pedicularis densiflora is a semi-parasitic herbaceous plant of chaparral-pine areas. The red green leaves are a pleasant sight in early March along Wall Ridge or Curry to Knobcone Point. It blooms in April at the summit. The newly opened leaves are pure red in this and many other species as a protection against ultra-violet light. Photographed March 29, 2008 Mt. Diablo Summit Trail, CA