California Fetid Adderstongue (Scoliopus bigelovii)

Wild Macro | Natural History Fine Art Photography by Timothy Boomer

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California fetid adderstongue (Scoliopus bigelovii) is a beautiful California-native wildflower which has a close association with redwoods. This intricate member of the lily family is mostly endemic to the northern California coast, but has also been found in southern Oregon near the border. In contrast to this flower's attractive appearance, its scent is less appealing — at least to humans. The unpleasant odor is thought to attract flies and fungus gnats, which play a key role in pollination. Additional common names include slinkpod, brownies, Bigelow's adderstongue, or simply, fetid adder's tongue.

California fetid adderstongue (Scoliopus bigelovii). Focus-stacked composite of 40 exposures under natural light. Portola Redwoods State Park, San Mateo County, California, USA.
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California fetid adderstongue (Scoliopus bigelovii), highly detailed portrait of one of the first blooms of the season. Portola Redwoods State Park, San Mateo County, California, USA.
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California fetid adderstongue (Scoliopus bigelovii). Portola Redwoods State Park, San Mateo County, California, USA.
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California fetid adderstongue (Scoliopus bigelovii). Homestead Valley Land Trust, Marin County, California, USA.
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California fetid adderstongue (Scoliopus bigelovii), close-up of an individual wildflower in bloom. Portola Redwoods State Park, San Mateo County, California, USA.
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California fetid adderstongue (Scoliopus bigelovii). Portola Redwoods State Park, San Mateo County, California, USA.
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California fetid adderstongue (Scoliopus bigelovii), documentary view of multiple plants in different stages of growth. Portola Redwoods State Park, San Mateo County, California, USA.
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Next Plant: California tiger lily (Lilium pardalinum)

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