UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION BERKELEY, CALIFORNIA NECTAR AND POLLEN PLANTS OF CALIFORNIA G. H. VANSELL APIARY IN SAGE REGION OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA BULLETIN 517 October, 1931 UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA PRINTING OFFICE BERKELEY, CALIFORNIA NECTAR AND POLLEN PLANTS OF CALIFORNIA G. H. VANSELLi INTRODUCTION There are about 175 species of plants in California which are of sufficient importance as nectar yielders to be worthy" of mention. All the other hundreds of species of flowering plants are of practically no value to bees as a source of nectar either because they do not secrete sufficiently, or the nectar is not accessible to bees, or the plants are too scarce. Numerous plants, however, regardless of their value for honey may be important sources of pollen. It does not pay to raise plants specially for the honey which the bees might obtain from them. About all that can be done along this line is to encourage the growth of nectar-producing plants for other purposes, the honey crop being secondary. It is sometimes feasible to scatter the seeds of desirable plants in waste places suitable for their growth; sweet clover has become established along ditches in many parts of the world partly through the efforts of persons interested in beekeeping. There is no other state with so rich and varied a nectar-bearing flora as California. Neither are plants elsewhere influenced by so wide a variety of conditions favorable or otherwise to the phenomenon of nectar secretion from year to year. These wide variations make it difficult to be positive in statement as to the actual value of a given plant which will apply generally, until a wealth of data are available ; an attempt at finality is futile. It is usual for the nectar plants in any locality to change through a succession of years, New crops, as for example, oranges or alfalfa, may supplant the old ones; or new weeds, such as the star thistle may come in. Six of the most important sources of nectar in California are the sages, alfalfa, orange, wild buckwheats, star thistle, and Christmas berry; of these, the sages, wild buckwheats, and Christmas berry are native. The three sages, Salvia mellifera (black), 8. apiana (white), and 8. leucophylla (purple) occur along the coast from the San Fran- cisco Bay region, south. The 'sagebrush' of Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, i Associate in Entomology ; resigned. 4 University of California — Experiment Station and the other western states are not true sages and very few of the many species making up the 'sagebrush' flora yield any nectar. The ''Nevada Sage Honey," sold so commonly in California as a com- petitor of true sage honey, comes from alfalfa, This is a trade name, the use of which is questionable in the minds of California beekeepers. The wild buckwheats, Eriogonum spp., of southern and south- central California should not be confused with the annual buckwheat grown agriculturally in New York and other eastern states. The plants are entirely different; our species are, in the main, perennial woody bushes in the chaparral of our southern hills and plains. California may be divided roughly into three series of belts with reference to nectar sources; coastal, intermountain, and transmoun- tain. The coastal belt, extending between the Pacific Ocean and the summits of the Coast Range, shows two distinct types of flora, divided latitudinally about the region of the San Francisco Bay. The inter- mountain belt comprises the Sacramento, San Joaquin, and Antelope valleys and the surrounding elevations. This intermountain area, in particular, is made up of a series of belts running north and south at successively higher elevations from the valley floor to the summits of the ranges. Each of these belts shows a characteristic flora which is destined to be increasingly important as sources of honey. East of the high Sierras lies the Owens Valley; at the northern end of these ranges is the Honey Lake region, and at the southern end is the Im- perial Valley. These three areas are here spoken of collectively as the transmountain honey areas. The plan followed here with reference to honey sources will indi- cate, in the text, or in the tables, the names of the plant (common and scientific) ; its distribution ; its general importance for beekeeping ; the color of honey produced ; etc. Honey colors are generally specified, following trade practice, as water-white, white, extra light amber, light amber, or amber. The distribution is usually indicated either by description or by blackened areas on the maps. The maps are intended to indicate roughly where the plants may be of more or less importance for bees. The list of plants included is by no means complete. The' author has drawn from numerous printed sources, particularly from Bulletin 217 2 . Much has been gleaned from conversation with Mr. M. C. Richter and other beekeepers throughout the state. How- ever, the major part of the material comes from personal field notes covering the past ten years. The photographs used are original unless mention is made of the source. 2 Richter, M. C. Honey plants of California. California Agr. Exp. Sta. Bui. 217:873-1037. 1911. Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California NECTAR SECRETION Nectar flow varies greatly in different species of plants and is an exceedingly variable process in any one species, depending npon a number of environmental factors, such as temperature, soil type and soil moisture, altitude, length of day, cloudiness, etc. High tempera- tures are necessary only with some species; in general, a wide range between day and night temperatures is favorable. The character of the soil and soil moisture affect the quantity and quality of the nectar. Certain plants, as heathers, yield well on acid soils while others, such as certain sages, do their best on lime soils. Alfalfa in Nevada (at 5,000 feet elevation) yields white honey while in the Imperial Valley alfalfa honey is of amber color; 3 again, it is lighter on sandy soils and darker on heavier soils. Sweet clover on the northern plains (Dakotas and Canada) under long daylight exposure yields nectar much more rapidly than farther south. Beutler 4 of Germany has recently shown a marked difference exist- ing in nectar concentration during periods of wet and dry atmosphere. This condition held in plants fully protected from rain. She further- more shows a striking difference in nectar sugar concentrations between plants under identical conditions, e.g., horse chestnut with 75.2 per cent sugar concentration and a fritillary with but 10 per cent. This explains, at least in part, why bees show preference for certain plant nectars. Park 5 of Iowa has recorded the variation in sugar concentration within one group of plants (gladiolus). In this work apparently the age of the blossoms was not considered as a factor. Plants secrete sweet substances not only in the blossoms, but in many cases on the leaf, stem, node, or bract, far away from the blossom and sexual structures. A common belief exists that plants secrete nectar to attract insects for effecting pollination. On such a hypothesis it is difficult to explain the extra-floral nectaries on the leaves and bracts of cotton. Some botanists believe the extra-nuptial nectar glands were originally water glands that have subsequently acquired the function of secreting sugar. The phenomenon of nectar secretion has never been explained satisfactorily. s Vansell, G. H. The honey bee in relation to alfalfa in California. Jour. Econ. Ent. 21:411-13. 1928. 4 Beutler, Euth. Ecological observations on the composition of nectar. (Translated title.) Proc. Soc. Morph. and Phys. Munich. 39:41-48. 1929. s Park, O. W. Studies on the sugar content and yield of nectar from different varieties of Gladiolus primulinus. Jour. Econ. Ent. 23:438-9. 1930. 6 University of California — Experiment Station Nectar usually consists of a solution of sugars, including sucrose, levulose, and dextrose with small amounts of other materials, includ- ing coloring matter and those ingredients which give to honeys their characteristic flavors. Recent work has shown the fallacy of the old idea that nectar sugar is largely sucrose. Some nectars collected from plants in pipettes contain more of the invert sugars (levulose and dextrose) than of sucrose. The well known fact that ripened honeys vary in the proportion of the sugars is no longer mysterious since the original nectars show somewhat the same differences. The invert sugar in nectar of a eucalyptus (blue gum) over a period of five consecutive days ranged from 6.47 per cent to 9.92 per cent while the ratio between invert and total sugars varied from 1 :1.566 to 1 :2.192 6 . Certain honeys granulate or candy readily. Each specific honey plant affords a typical honey of fairly definite levulose, dextrose, and sucrose content, Granulation is occasioned by the dextrose crystalliz- ing out of solution, and the speed of granulation is a rough indication of the amount of this sugar present. When honey granulates, the part still in solution is virtually diluted with water and will then ferment more readily. Wind has its effect upon bees and nectar secretion. A high wind greatly retards flight. In a windy area the presence of trees helps bees; they may often be seen traveling along the leeward side of a hedge to and from a pasturage. In the Sacramento Valley region, winds from the north and southwest are frequently of too high velocity for best results with bees; of the two, however, the north wind is to be preferred, because high temperatures, which are favor- able for nectar secretion, usually accompany the north winds during summer. Humidity is very low when the north wind blows and rela- tively high during south winds. Rainfall also has much to do with the availability of nectar in any region. The beekeepers in the sage ranges have come to predict their summer crop by the amount of rain received before definite dates in early spring. The mesquite plants in southeastern California may burst into blossom and yield nectar after each belated shower. Even under irrigation the light application of water following winters of low precipitation markedly affects the honey crop. The actual growth and vigor of the plant is governed by the presence of moisture at the proper time ; but even after sufficient growth is attained to give copious blossoming, the secretion of nectar appears to be, in the case of many plants, largely dependent upon rain during the blossoming period. ,; Annual "Report, California. Agricultural Experiment Station, 1926-27, p. 75. Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 7 However, so many other factors also influence nectar secretion that it is perhaps unsafe to make too positive a statement as to the exact cause of failure of a plant to secrete. The work of Kenoyer 7 in Iowa on weather records in relation to honey crops should be consulted for details on this subject. Conditions are, of course, too varied in this state to warrant the universal application of his conclusions. Rainy days are generally unfavorable for field work on the part of bees, yet M. C. Richter states that at Big Sur large daily gains were made during misty rainfalls. As a rule, nectar secretion, or at least gain in hive weight, is almost stopped by rain, with a gradual recovery for about three or four days after the weather has settled. Formerly, in the San Joaquin Valley areas, with a high water table, several weeds (spikeweed, Centromadia; jackass clover, Wis- lizenia; etc.) and even alfalfa, yielded nectar abundantly, while at present with a rapidly lowering water level, nectar secretion is often negligible. The phenomenon of nectar secretion has not been sufficiently studied by plant physiologists; observations by the beekeeper are largely superficial. More fundamental studies of nectar secretion are needed. The nectar goes to waste as far as man is concerned unless harvested by the hive bee. Beekeeping can be made more stable eco- nomically by additional knowledge of nectar secretion. The failure of the flow for no apparent reason often discourages beekeepers., NECTAR AND POLLEN YIELDING PLANTS Acacias, Acacia spp. — Shrubs or trees. Some are native (catclaw, A. greggii; huajillo, A. berlandieri; huisache, A. farnesiana, etc.) : sixty species or more are introduced. The natives are apparently of far greater importance for nectar than the exotics because they secrete more freely. Many black acacia trees (A. melanoxylon) occur in Davis where a bee is seldom observed on them. The nectaries of the majority of the acacias are extra-floral (fig. 1) and those of certain species (A. Jongifolia, etc.) secrete abundantly before the blossoms open. Ailanthus.— See "Tree of Heaven." Alfalfa, Medicago sativa. — Alfalfa grows practically everywhere in California; about 1,001,000 acres were growing in 1930 (fig. 2). It is the leading honey plant of the state. The San Joaquin and Imperial valleys give most of the honey, where it may be of light amber or 7 Kenoyer, L. A. Environmental influence on nectar secretion. Research Bul. Iowa Agr. Exp. Sta. 37:219-32. 1916. 8 University of California — Experiment Station amber color, while in the Modoc and certain other regions it is water- white. The nature of the soil, as well as the condition of soil moisture and the character of growth, affects the honey crop from alfalfa. Alfalfa honey is of excellent body; and it readily granulates into a fine-grained solid. Thrips are found in numbers living inside the blossoms of alfalfa ; when several are present but little, if any, nectar is to be seen. These insects apparently feed upon the nectar as it is secreted, although this food habit is questioned by some entomologists. Fig. 1. — Showing drops of nectar on leaves of Acacia longifolia, Algaroba. — See "Mesquite." Alkali Weed. — A name used extensively for several plants. Many of the alkali weeds are at times of considerable value for honey pro- duction. One plant Centromadia fttchii, (fig. 3) commonly known as alkali weed, as well as Fitch's spikeweed and j agger weed, gives a yellow, rather unpleasantly flavored honey about Davis in late summer and fall. Another spikeweed, C. pungens, is reported as producing good honey in abundance throughout the San Joaquin Valley. Bui,. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 9 Alsike Clover, Tri folium hybridum. — Occurs in mountain mead- ows and along irrigation ditches at lower altitudes. A heavy yielder of nectar in the East where used for hay and pasture and probably of equal importance here where sufficiently abundant. Amsinckia, Amsinckia, spp. — Becoming abundant everywhere. Springs up quickly with warm weather, blossoming in March and April. Bees visit the yellow or orange blossoms freely for nectar and the steady honey gain at this time is partly from this source. The Fig. Fig. 3 Fig. 2. — Distribution of alfalfa, Medicago sativa. Fig. 3. — Spikeweed, Centromadia fitchil. plant is locally referred to as fireweed, leather breeches, and woolly breeches, because the sharp plant hairs work through the clothing to cause a burning sensation. It is not to be confused with the better known fireweed or willow herb, Epilobium angustifolium. Compare figures 4 and 5. Arrow-Weed, Pluchea sericea. — Common native in the Imperial and Coachella valleys and elsewhere. The pink flowers yield a light amber honey of good quality. 10 University of California — Experiment Station Asparagus, Asparagus officinalis. — An important source of dark honey over a long season in summer. The 'delta region' of the Sacra- mento-San Joaquin rivers affords surplus honey from this source (fig. 6). The market price of asparagus honey is below that of many other honeys. Asters, Aster spp. — Many species occur sparingly over the state (fig. 7). Bees visit them for pollen and nectar often after almost everything else has ceased blossoming in fall. The California market is unfamiliar with aster honey which means probably that little of it is made. Aster honey is supposed to be unfavorable for wintering purposes on account of its high gum content. Fig. 5 Fig. 4 Fig. 4. — Fireweed, Epilobium angustifolium. See figures 5 and 34. Fig. 5. — AmsincTcia lycopsoides. Often referred to as fire weed by grain harvesters. Compare with figure 4. Athel.— See "Tamarisk." Avocado, Persea spp. — Visited moderately by bees for nectar and pollen. Bees are encouraged about the groves because a pollination problem exists. It is fortunate, from the production standpoint, that there is a heavy bee population in southern California where these rich subtropical fruits are now planted so extensively. Azalea, Rhododendron spp. — These plants are spottedly abun- dant. Most of them are not in beekeeping sections and bees visit them Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 11 freely for nectar over a short period only. Where these are indigenous or have been planted along with other nectar plants, moderate migra- tory beekeeping may be feasible. Baccharis. — See "Chaparral Broom." Ball Sage.— See "Black Sage." Basswood, Tilia spp. — Rarely planted in California but a heavy yielder of nectar where present. Bees work the blossoms from day- light to dark (fig. 8). Basswood honey is excellent for comb honey production, being water-white and of non-granulating character. Fig. 6 Fig. 7 Fig. 6. — Distribution of asparagus, Asparagus officinalis. Fig. 7. — Aster (wild) of Sacramento Valley. Bay Laurel or Bay Tree. — See "California Laurel." Beans. — See "Lima Beans." Bearberry. — See "Cascara" and "Manzanita." Bear-Clover. — See "Mountain Misery." 12 University of California — Experiment Station Bear-Mat. — See "Mountain Misery." Bitterbark. — See "Cascara." Bitterbrush, Coleogyne ramosissima, — Eeported on the Colorado and Mojave Deserts to be "alive with bees" during its blossom period in early summer (J. W. Dixon, Independence). This plant is a close relative of the antelope brush, Purshia tridentata, found east of the Sierra Nevada from Tulare County northward. Bitter Cherry. — See "Desert Peach." Blackberry. — See "Kaspberry." Fig. 8. — Basswood or linden, Tilia amerioana. Black Locust, Robinia pseudacacia, — Bees gather nectar freely for a period of about three weeks. Many persons think that black locusts cause swarming in bees ; the profuse nectar flow does stimulate them to greater activity generally. The honey is white and of excellent flavor. Black Sage, Salvia mellifera. — Grows 2 to 6 feet high, from peren- nial roots. One of the chief honey plants of the Pacific Coast (figs. 9 and 10). This plant, with the other sages (figs. 29, 52, 53, 60, and 61), early gave California her reputation for fine honey. The sages appar- ently yield best with copious rainfall after a period of drought. The honey is a non-granulating type. Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants op California 13 fj- jVW« 'WW f :-\\; Fig. 9 Fig. 9. — Black sage, Salvia mellifera. Fig. 10. — Distribution of black sage. Fig. 10 Fig. 11 Fig. 12 Fig. 11. — Blue curls. Fig. 12. — Distribution of blue curls. 14 University of California — Experiment Station Blue Curls, Trichostema lanceolatum. — This plant (fig. 11) grows rapidly during the heat of late summer on the drier soils over much of the valley and foothill land of California and northward into Ore- gon (fig. 12) . It produces as much as 100 pounds to the colony in some years at certain locations. The honey granulates very quickly with a fine-grained texture. Turpentine weed, T. laxum, is also visited freely by bees for nectar (fig. 13). Fig. 13. — Turpentine weed, Trichostema laxum. Often confused with blue curls. Blue Sage.— See "Black Sage." Blueweed.— See "Chicory." Bokhara.— See "Sweet Clover." Box Elder, Acer negundo, var. californicum. — Box elder, one of the maples, found along stream beds in the valleys and in the foot- hills, is freely visited by bees, especially for pollen. The Sierra maple, A. (jlabmim, and vine maple, A. circinatum, yield nectar abundantly. The vine maple becomes increasingly abundant northward to consti- tute a very important source of good honey in Oregon. Buckbrush.— See "Wild Lilac." Buckeye. — See "California Buckeye." Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 15 Buckhorn, Plant ago lanceolata. — A troublesome European weed in lawn and pastures. Bees obtain much pollen and some nectar from the blossoms. The broad-leaved plantain, P. major, is not very attractive to bees. Buckthorn.— See "Coffee Berry." Buckweed. — See "Fireweed." Buckwheats (wild), Eriogonum spp. — The species Eriogonum fasciculatum, referred to as 'flat tops' in southern California, is un- doubtedly one of the most important of the group. It is the principal honey-producing plant for many southern California apiaries (fig 14). The wild buckwheats in warm protected places on the coastal Fig. 15 Fig. 14 Fig. 14. — Distribution of a wild buckwheat, Eriogonum fasciculatum. Fig. 15. — Eriogonum parvifolium, a species of wild buckwheat. side and generally on the inland side of the ranges are excellent for nectar secretion when moisture is sufficient. In the Palmdale district buckwheat comb honey is produced. Every part of the state has cer- tain species of Eriogonum (fig. 15) which contribute to the total honey crop. The honey has enough brown color to darken the water- white sage honey, if present even in small quantity. Buffalo Berry, Shepherdia argentea. — This is a stout, spiny shrub found east of the Sierra Nevada, constituting an important source of nectar and pollen in spring. It grows along stream beds in dense thickets. Bur Clover, Medicago hispida. — Sometimes mentioned as a source of surplus honey but only of stimulative value in most locations. The bees work other blossoms in preference at Davis. 16 University of California — Experiment Station Button-Ball Bush or Tree.— See "Button- Willow." Button Sage.— See "Black Sage." Button-Willow, Cephalanthus occidentalis. — A small tree or bush, occuring along stream beds everywhere up to 4,000 feet. Bees store honey rapidly from the ball-like blossoms (fig. 16) ; in the "delta" region, surplus honey is not unusual. A reliable source, since (by its location) it is abundantly supplied with moisture and is easily 'worked' by bees. Fig. 16. — Button-willow, Cephalanthus occidentalis. Cactus. — Many species of cacti occur in the state and afford some pasturage for bees, furnishing both pollen and nectar; of particular importance under drought conditions for carrying the colonies through. Honey reported to be of light amber color and rank flavor. California Buckeye, Aesculus calif arnica. — Occurs in a rim about the great valley of California from sea level to 4,000 feet elevation (figs. 17 and 18), often in pure stands locally; abundant in parts of Solano, Santa Cruz, Butte, Amador, Eldorado, and Tulare counties. Bees are killed at times by either the nectar or sap from these trees. A California circular 8 records the finding of sap droplets oozing from the punctures of a normally grass-feeding bug, Irbisea salani Held. Young bees fed on buckeye supplies are frequently so deformed as to s Vansell, G. H. Buckeye poisoning of the honey bee. California Agr. Exp. Sta. Cir. 301:1-12. 1926. Buu 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 17 be unable to either walk or fly (fig". 19). This malady is serious in many spots, particularly inland, when moisture for the grass is deficient. Wm. G. Watkins of Placerville, who has suffered losses, thinks his Carniolan-Italian hybrids are very resistant, while the original stocks are susceptible. The honey has a pronounced odor and flavor and quickly darkens with age and light exposure; it is of non-granulating character. Fig. 17. — California buckeye, Aesculus calif 'ornica. Beekeepers suffer heavy losses from buckeye poisoning. Fig. 19 Fig. 18 Fig. 18. — Distribution of California buckeye. Fig. 19. — Newly emerged ' ' buckeyed ' ' bees. Something in the California buckeye nectar, pollen, or sap causes the death or deformity of young bees. California Holly. — See ' ' Christmas Berry. ' ' California Honey Plant, Scrophularia calif ornica. — This (fig. 20) is a heavy yielder of a water-white, bland honey. It is moisture loving, being found mostly in shade. Simpson's honey plant, S. nodosa, var. 18 University of California — Experiment Station marilandim, is very similar to this. There are yellow-blossomed shrubs of this genus in the southern part of the state which yield much nectar; reported as important in Riverside and San Diego counties. California Laurel, TJmbellularia calif ornica. — This is an evergreen odorous tree of wide distribution in California, occuring particularly along streams and in gulches on hillsides. Bees visit the blossoms freely and probably secure considerable nectar for immediate use during warm days of winter and early spring. California Lilac— See "Wild Lilacs." Camphor Weed.— See "Blue Curls." Fig. 21 Fig. 20 Fig. 20. — California honey plant, Scrophularia calif ornica. Fig. 21. — Distribution of canteloupe. Canteloupe, Cucumis melo. — The canteloupe yields an abundance of nectar and pollen. The plants are monoecious, that is, male and female blossoms are separate but on the same plants (figs. 21 and 22). The blossoms, therefore, require the attention of bees and other insects for proper pollination. Some nectar and pollen are also obtained from the other members of the "cucumber" group, i.e., squash, water- melon, pumpkin, cucumber, manroot, etc. Carpet Grass, Lippia spp. — Reported to be worthless for nectar in Texas (H. B. Parks) and elsewhere. Where sufficient moisture is available, blossoming of the various species continues over a long period. The species L. repens is becoming abundant about cities. The lippias yield an abundance of nectar in California; the honey is good and of characteristic flavor. Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 19 Carrot, Daucus carota. — Carrots occur widely as an escaped weed and are grown for seed about Stockton, San Jose, etc. Yield nectar freely in early summer. Honey of light amber color. Fig. 22. — Canteloupe, Cucumis melo. Pollen must be transferred from the staminate blossom (a) to the pistillate (b). (Courtesy of the late J. T. Eosa.) Fig. 23. — Catclaw, Acacia greggii. (After Jepson.) Cascara Sagrada, Rhamnus purshiana. — This is a deciduous species occuring in northern California and on northward ; grows to be a small tree; berries black when ripe; leaves 2% to 8 inches long. It is important for nectar in Oregon and Washington, but too rare in California, to yield much. Honey, amber, of excellent flavor, slightly cathartic. 9 9Herold, A. D. Note in Gleanings in Bee Culture. 38:26. 1910. 20 University of California — Experiment Station Catalpa, Catalpa spp. — The blossoms of these beautiful trees are attractive to bees, yielding pollen and nectar freely. The blossoms are so large that a bee can crawl inside. Cat claw, Acacia greggii. — A heavy yielder under optimum con- ditions. In the southeast part of the state (Colorado Desert), this plant (fig. 23) occurs abundantly along washes, where it constitutes, along with mesquite, the chief native nectar source. See "Acacias." Texas catclaw, A. wrightii, is reported to be the source of the greater bulk of the catclaw honey in southwest Texas. Fig. 25 Fig. 24 Fig. 24. — Chamise, Adenostema fasciculatum. (Courtesy, F. C. Pellett.) Fig. 25. — Guatemote, or mule fat, Baccharis viminea. (Courtesy of F. C. Pellett.) Caterpillar Phacelia. — See "Phacelia." Cat Mint.— See "Catnip." Catnip, Nepeta cataria. — Rare in California, Eagerly visited by bees for nectar. Were it abundant enough, no doubt this would be an important source of honey. Another species of Nepeta is reported at Berkeley (Professor E. 0. Essig) to "swarm with bees." Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 21 Ceanothus.— See "Wild Lilacs." Cedar.— See "Pine." Chamise, Adenostoma fascicwlatum. — This is the most abundant and characteristic bush of the high Coast ranges and the lower Sierra Nevada (fig. 24). Reported to be visited eagerly by bees in many places. Acres of this plant in full blossom have been observed with scarcely a bee on it from hundreds of colonies in the vicinity. A. sparsifolium, ribbon wood, is found at high altitudes in San Diego County. Chamoise or Chamoisal. — See "Chamise." Chaparral.— See "Wild Lilacs." SieU&r'ia ?n 'edict Fig. 26. — Common chickweed. Chaparral Broom, Baccharis pilidaris. — Known also by numerous other common names, including ' coyote brush'. Throughout California west of the Sierras, up to 1,500 feet. A heavy yielder of nectar. Several species of the genus, including B. viminea (guatemote or mule fat, fig. 25), B. glutinosa (water-wally), and B. sergiloides (squaw water- weed) are known locally to be of some importance to bees. Some of the species blossom too early in spring for bees to work them well. Chia Sage.— See "Sages." Chickweed, Stellaria media. — The chickweeds, ten or more species, occur throughout the state (fig. 26). They are in greatest abundance during winter and early spring. In many localities they afford the earliest supply of nectar, but on account of the season are of im- portance to the bees for stimulative purposes only. 22 University of California — Experiment Station Chicory, CicJiorium intybws. — A weed with very beautiful blos- soms, gaining rather a wide distribution. Blossoms open in evening, remaining well into the morning or through the day in reduced light. Bees work these plants freely for both pollen and nectar. China Berry.— See "Umbrella Tree." Chittam Wood. — See "Cascara." Christmas Berry, Photinia arbnti folia, — Also known as toyon, California holly, or red-berry. Widely distributed up to 3,500 feet (fig. 27). These bushes blossom at an opportune time because many of the bees in Sacramento Valley location must then be moved out to avoid dwindling. Toyon honey is popular and is preferred by many local customers. Reported to yield surplus honey from Colusa, Eldorado, Monterey, Napa, Nevada, and Placer counties. The honey is very dark and thick with a decided flavor, but is extracted only with difficulty. Fig. 27 Fig. 28 Fig. 29 Fig. 27. — Distribution of Christmas berry, Photinia aroutifolia. Fig. 28. — Distribution of cotton, Gossypium spp. Fig. 29. — Distribution of creeping sage, Salvia sonomensis. Cleome, Cleome serrulata. — A superb honey source in many places from Colorado westward. This species is rare in California, being reported from Point Sur, San Diego, and a few other places. The closely related species, C. lutea, is found in the desert region of Inyo and Mono counties where it is much visited by bees during summer. Cleomella. — See "Mojave Stinkweed." Clotbur, Xanthium spinosum. — During late summer, bees visit the small blossoms of this plant eagerly for nectar. No insect inhab- itants were present to secrete honeydew. It has not been found in Bui,. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 23 sufficient abundance to be spoken of as important, but indications are that it has possibilities. Also called spiny cocklebur or Spanish thistle. The common cocklebur, X. canadense, is listed as a source of pollen and possibly honey, which is presumed to be honeydew (Rayment in Australia). Cocklebur.— See "Clotbur." Coffee Berry, Rhamnus calif ornica. — A very important plant along" and below the San Francisco Bay region, in the Sierra foothills, and elsewhere; grows in thickets. An evergreen shrub with globose berries, black when ripe and about 1/3 inch in diameter; leaves li/o to 2V2 inches in length; easily distinguished from the deciduous cas- cara sagrada with which it is often confused. Honey reported from white to amber in color, of good flavor, and slightly cathartic. Coleogyne. — See ' ' Bitterbrush " Corn — A great abundance of pollen is gathered from corn plants annually. As many as 20 bees have been observed gathering pollen from one tassel of zea mays (Davis, California). An observer at Woodland reported sudan grass as an important source of pollen (1928). Another observer at Dixon reported a crop of honey from Egyptian corn one season. Probably most of the "nectar" gathered is honeydew, of either animal or plant origin. Many of the other grasses and grass-like plants yield pollen which is attractive to bees. Cotoneaster, Cotoneaster spp. — These plants appear to be an important minor source of nectar, secreting freely throughout the day. Cotton, Gossypium spp. — A very important source of nectar in only part of the areas where grown (fig. 28). It yields well on the old lake soils in Kern County, giving a surplus of good light honey. The replacement of alfalfa with cotton results in a reduction of nectar for the beekeeper. Cotton has both floral and extra-floral nectaries. In parts of the Old South, cotton is the leading honey plant. Cotton Thorn, Tetradymia spinosa, — This bush occurs extensively in the desert region of the eastern part of the state and is particu- larly abundant in parts of Inyo and Mono counties. It blossoms in May and affords a liberal supply of nectar for bees, according to George Smith of Manzanar. The name "lemon sage" is also applied to this species. Creeping Sage, Salvia sonomensis. — Rare but widely scattered throughout California, west of the Sierras, from 1,000 to 4,000 feet elevation (fig. 29). Often in isolated patches, particularly at the edges of chamise thickets. An erratic source of nectar. Available records show that this is occasionally a source of a large crop of 24 University of California — Experiment Station honey. Its quality is equal to the black sage honey of the southern coast region. Following a fire which burns off the chamise, etc., this plant is likely to give a surplus honey crop for two years. Fig. 30. — Creosote bush, Larrea tridentata. Creosote Bush, Larrea tridentata. — An abundant evergreen bush (fig. 30) in areas of the Mojave and Colorado deserts, where it is often spoken of as an important secondary source of nectar. Some- times called greasewood on account of the sticky foliage. Pollen pro- duced abundantly. Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 25 Crimson Sage. — See "Sages." Cucumber Tree.— See "Tulip Tree." Cummin. — See "Fennel." Dalea, Parosela spp. — The daleas are common in the desert of southeastern California. The low-growing, purple-blossom species of Inyo and Mono counties are very attractive to bees for nectar. The smoke tree, P. spinosa, also affords some nectar. Dandelion, Taraxacum spp. — These are not to be thought of as important in California, as is the case in the humid eastern United States. The common dandelion (naturalized from Europe) is widely scattered now in lawns and moist meadows, being an ever-present source of some nectar and much pollen. Several species of the genus Agosaris, commonly called sea dandelions, are abundant along the coast where bees visit them freely for both pollen and nectar. Daucus. — See "Carrot." Deciduous Fruits. — Most of the deciduous fruits are of but sec- ondary importance for honey. The fruits blossom so early, before the bees are well built up from winter, that special attention is necessar}^ to procure a crop of honey. Apple honey is good in flavor and color ; some of this is stored in the apple growing sections. Plum honey is of inferior flavor and color. Almond honey is light in color and very bitter in flavor. Peach, apricot, and pear yield some nectar. Pear is reported to be of importance for honey in parts of the United States, but in California bees prefer to work other blossoms where available. Deer Clover or Deerweed. — See "Wild Alfalfa." Desert Peach, Primus andersonii. — A common species east of the Sierra Nevada, where it is important, particularly for pollen, during the brood-rearing period of spring. Others of this same genus (west- ern choke cherry, bitter cherry, Sierra plum, etc. ) are a source of con- siderable nectar in the mountains over a wide area. Devil's Claw. — See "Catclaw" and "Acacias." Dodder, Cuscuta spp. — A leafless, yellow-colored parasitic plant becoming common on many hill ranges, particularly in southern Cali- fornia. The small blossoms of dodder yield nectar freely during summer and fall. Reports from Texas and elsewhere indicate that bees are poisoned by dodder if they feed on it to excess. 10 Dove Weed.— See "Turkey Mullein." Drought Weed.— See "Turkey Mullein." Egyptian Corn. — See "Corn." Dodder. Beekeeper's Item. 14:492-93. 1930. 26 University of California — Experiment Station Elm, Ulmus spp. — Of great value for early pollen. The European elms at Davis are ' ' alive with bees ' ' securing greyish-yellow pollen on warm days. Scholl lists certain elms in Texas as giving honey, but no trace of nectar has been observed in California by the writer. Much insect honeydew occurs on these trees in late summer and fall, which is readily collected by bees. English Plantain. — See "Buckhorn." Epilobium. — See "Fireweed." Fig. 32 Fig. 31 Fig. 31. — Blue gum, Eucalyptus globulus. Fig. 32. — Desert gum, Eucalyptus rudis. Eucalypts, Eucalyptus spp. — Members of the large Eucalyptus genus comprise an important source of honey in their native land (Australia) and certain of them are now valuable bee plants in this state. The blue gum, Eucalyptus globulus (fig. 31) has been exten- sively planted about the San Francisco Bay region where it yields honey abundantly. The blossoming period is in late winter and early spring when the weather is not always suitable for the gathering of nectar. In addition, the plants do not blossom heavily every year. Cary W. Ilartman of Oakland reports a heavy crop of blue gum honey one year in four. Red gum, E. rostrata, is planted rather extensively in the hot interior valleys where considerable honey is stored from it each year. Many others should be mentioned as sources of honey, including manna gum, E. vimmalis; desert gum (fig. 32), Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 27 E. rudis; white ironbark, E. leucoxylora; mahogany gum, E. robusta; forest gray gum, E. tereticornis; and scarlet bloom, E. fici folia. The honey from these trees in California is rather pronounced in flavor, especially when a. slow nectar now is experienced. False Acacia. — See "Black Locust." Fennel (sweet), Foeniculum vulgar e. — A plant with strong aro- matic odor, resembling the anise oil of fish bait fame. Widely scattered and often abundant in waste places. Bees visit the blossoms eagerly for nectar. Fiddle-Neck.— See "Phacelia." Figwort. — See "California Honey Plant." Fig. 33.— Filaree. Filaree (White-Stem Filaree, fig. 33), Erodium moschatum. — This is a well-known stock forage plant with numerous common names, among which are alfilaree, pin clover, scissor weed, musk clover, pin grass, heron's bill, and stork's bill. It is a member of the geranium family and from it, as from very many others of this group, consid- erable nectar and pollen are gathered by the bees. In northern Cali- fornia, at least, this is visited mostly during early morning, since the blossoms open at night and but few remain open during the day except when the weather is cloudy. Beekeepers have reported a surplus from this source, but as a rule, stimulation of the bees to more activity is the chief benefit to the apiary. It gives a large amount of pollen, abundant practically everywhere in the state. Fir.— See "Pine." Fireweed, Epilobium angustifolium. — Perennial herbs (fig. 4), occurring in far northern California and at high altitudes southward (fig. 34). The chief honey plant to the north of California. Particu- 28 University of California — Experiment Station larly abundant for a period after forest fires. Moisture loving. This is called buckweed in Mendocino County. A heavy reliable yielder of excellent honey. See * * Amsinckia. " Flea Weed.— See "Blue Curls." Foeniculum. — See ' ' Fennel. ' ' Fog Fruit.— See "Carpet Grass." French Tamarisk. — See "Tamarisk." Fuller's Teasel.— See "Teasel." Fig. 34 Fig. 35 Fig. 34. — Distribution of fireweed, Epilobium angustifolium. See figures 4 and 5. Fig. 35. — Firethorn, Pyracantha sp. Garden Flowers. — Generally speaking, such plants (fig. 35) are of meager importance for bees on account, in part, of their limited number; also, many of them have blossoms of such a structure that the nectar supply is not within the reach of a bee's tongue (see "Honeysuckle," fig. 37). With large-area plantings, as in the case of seed production, bees may obtain an appreciable supply of nectar from certain ones. Gilia, Oilia spp. — Some of the gilias are important local sources of nectar in May and June, particularly on burnt-over forest land. Two Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 29 species, one tall and one dwarf, have yielded as much as 50 pounds surplus in the Butte Flat vicinity. Globe Artichoke, Cynara scaly mus. — The large, blue blossoms of these plants are very attractive to bees during May and June. Many dead bees have been observed upon the artichoke blossoms by inde- pendent observers. The factor causing the death of the bees is un- known. Both pollen and nectar are collected. Fig. 36. — Scotch heather, Erica melanthera. Goldenrod, Solidago spp. — Goldenrods occur widely in the hill country of California. Eagerly visited by bees for pollen and nectar. S. Occident alis is of considerable value for honey at Placerville, but generally goldenrod is not numerous enough to be very important. Golden Wattle. — See "Acacias." Gourd. — See "Canteloupe." Grape, Vitis sp. — The cultivated grape blossoms are visited at times for pollen but bees ordinarily do not pay much attention to them. In the fall where honey-producing plants are scarce, bees often 30 University of California — Experiment Station store considerable quantities of grape juice. This juice sometimes ferments in the cells. The California wild grape, however, is visited by bees in large numbers for both pollen and nectar. Grapefruit. — See "Orange." Greasewood. — See "Chamise" and "Creosote Bush." Guatemote. — See "Chaparral Broom." Gum.— See "Eucalypts." Heartsease. — See "Smartweed." Heather, Erica spp. — Heathers, both Scotch (fig. 36) and Mediter- ranean, are becoming common in landscaped areas. These blossom profusely in early spring when bees may be unable to fly freely. The famous dark-colored heather honey of Europe is from these and similar species. There are some native heathers in the high Sierras where few, if any, hive bees exist, Helianthus. — See ' ' Sunflowers. ' ' Hemp, Cannabis sativa. — Hemp is not grown much in California, but it occurs as a weed in many places. Bees collect a great deal of pollen from the b'ossoms during summer. Colorado River hemp, Sesbania macrocarya, a legume, which grows in the Imperial Valley region, is freely visited by bees for nectar. Hill Vervenia.— See "Phacelia." Hoarhound. — See "Horehound." Hollyberry, Rhamnus crocea. — Bushy in nature of growth. Ever- green leaves are small and prickly, not to be confused with the Christ- mas berry. Bees work it freely for nectar over its entire range. Hollyhock.— See "Wild Hollyhock." Honeydew. — The main source of the sugars that bees get is nectar from flowers. Other sources which should be mentioned, however, occur more frequently than is recognized by beekeepers. The name 1 ' honeydew ' ' is applied to the sweet exudate of many groups of insects (aphis, leaf hoppers, scale, and gall insects, etc'.) as well as that from certain plant tissues. It is eagerly collected by the bees and stored for honey. As a rule, the color is very dark (some exceptions) and of objectionable flavor. Where the bees are confined long by cold, digestive disturbances may occur from the consumption of such ' ' honey. ' ' In the Sacramento Valley, and immediately around it, the gall insect, Disholcaspis eldoradensis Beutenmuller, sometimes affords an extraction of honey. At Cottonwood, A. Gambs reports as much as 30 pounds per colony of oak honeydew honey. Indian honey is a local name for honeydew honey. Bui,. 517] NECTAR AND POLLEN PLANTS OF CALIFORNIA 31 Honeysuckle, Lonicera spp. — Most of the honeysuckles produce nectar in abundance but it is ordinarily not within reach of the bee's tongue (fig. 37). Often, however, the nectar hangs in drops from an inverted blossom (canyons of southern California). Some of the dwarf species in the hills annually contribute somewhat to the honey crop from miscellaneous sources. Fig. 37 Fig. 38 Fig. 37. — Honeysuckle, Lonicera sp. Corolla tube length exceeds that of the bee 's tongue. Fig. 38. — Horehound, Marrubium vulgare. Compare with black sage in figure 9. Hop, Humulus lupulus. — Grown extensively in river bottoms, par- ticularly the Sacramento. Mentioned occasionally as a source of pollen, but since pollen is so excessively abundant over most of this state, hop vines cannot be considered of any special value to bees here. Horehound, Marrubium vulgare. — Scattered widely, particularly abundant in parts of Napa County. In spite of the dark, ill-tasting honey, this plant is proving a blessing to Sacramento Valley bee- keepers since it blossoms during the severe summer dearth period experienced there from May to July. Bees appear to prefer this plant (fig. 38) over many others, perhaps on account of the easily 32 University of California — Experiment Station available or rich nectar. The honey is too strong for table use but finds a place in medicines, cookies, etc. Huajillo. — See "Acacias." Huisache. — See "Acacias." Hypericum. — See "St. Johnswort." Ice Plant, Mesembryanthemum crystallinum. — This plant occurs along the coast and on the adjacent islands from Santa Barbara to San Diego counties, being abundant in areas. Bees gather nectar freely from it. The honey granulates almost as fast as made. Other species of the genus are commonly used for wall cover in gardens. Bees eagerly visit the blossoms for nectar and pollen, but the plants are probably not numerous enough to be of much im- portance. Indian Corn. — See "Corn." Indian Fig. — See "Cactus." Indian Honey. — See "Honeydew." Ironbark. — See "Eucalypts." Ivy. — See "Virginia Creeper." Jacaranda, Jacaranda ovafolia. — A tree with beautiful purple blossoms planted in southern California. Bees work it free^ for nectar and pollen in May and June. Jackass Clover, Wislizenia refmcta. — A valuable addition to the nectar sources of the San Joaquin Valley where it yields a large quantity of good honey on wet lands. A correspondent at Selma reports excellent return from this source. Yields in alternate years, at least in some localities. This plant has been recently reported from Arizona where it is a heavy yielder. Also occurs over much of western Nevada, but little is known of its value there. Jagger Weed.— See "Alkali Weed." Jerusalem Oak. — See "Mountain Misery." Judas Tree.— See "Redbud." Keawe. — See "Mesquite." Kittikit. — See "Mountain Misery." Knotweed. — See "Smartweed." Koelreuteria, Koelreuteria paniculata. — Medium-sized tree, blos- soming in July at Davis; spoken of locally as "varnish tree." Bees work the yellow blossoms heavily for nectar. There are comparatively few trees available, although its use as an ornamental is increasing. Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 33 The seeds are hard and black, enclosed in a conspicuous bladder-like capsule. This is not to be confused with the umbrella tree, Melia azedarach, nor with the tree of heaven, Ailanthus glandulosa. Laurel. — See "California Laurel." Laurel Sumac. — See "Sumac." Lawn Plant. — See "Carpet Grass." Leather-Breeches. — See ' ' Amsinckia. ' ' Lemon. — See "Orange." Lemon Sage. — See "Cotton Thorn." Fig. 39 Fig. 40 Fig. 39. — Distribution of lima bean, Phaseolus sp. Fig. 40. — Madrone, Arbutus menziesii. Lima Bean, Phaseolus spp. — The bean acreage of California is large. In general, most of the beans are of very secondary value for honey production ; the one exception is the lima. The baby lima yields nectar abundantly when conditions are suitable. Cool weather seems to be essential. Along the southern coastal plains, where most of the baby limas are grown (fig. 39), bees are moved within reach every year. In Yolo County, and other inland localities, the lima bean may or may not secrete sufficient nectar to be stored by bees. Lima bean honey is of delicious flavor and heavy body; it granulates readily. The black-eye beans are reported to give some honey of near amber color. This may be of honeydew origin. 34 University of California — Experiment Station Lime. — See "Orange." Lin or Linden. — See "Basswood." Lippia. — See "Carpet Grass." Lombardy Star Thistle.— See "Napa Thistle." Loquat, Eriobotrya japonica. — These blossoms produce pollen and nectar abundantly during winter. Many honey bees and other insects come to the trees during the sunny hours. Lotus.— See "Wild Alfalfa" and "Spanish Clover." Lucerne.— See "Alfalfa." Lupines, Lupinus spp. — Unfortunately most of the lupines are not very attractive to bees. Keports are sometimes received credit- ing lupines as the source of a crop of honey, but some doubt is enter- tained concerning their reliability. Madrone, Arbutus menziesii. — Of much importance for honey in the Sierra foothills and from -Santa Cruz County northward along the coast. Blossoms (fig. 40) much resemble those of manzanita (fig. 41). The honey is of excellent quality. Mahogany Sumac. — See ' ' Sumac. ' ' Manna. — See * ' Honeydew. ' ' Manroot. — See "Canteloupe." Manzanita, Arctostaphylos spp. — Occurs over nearly all the hills and mountainous country up to 9,000 feet, even where moisture is scarce. Blossoming period is during winter and early spring which often precludes the storage of much honey in spite of the great abundance of nectar available. The honey has a faint bitter taste when fresh; but after extraction the flavor improves. See figure 41. Maple.— See "Box Elder." Marrubium. — See ' ' Horehound. ' ' Marsh Flower.— See "Meadow Foam." Mat Grass. — See "Carpet Grass." Meadow Foam, Limnanthus douglasii. — This and other low grow- ing species carpet the ground on "salty" spots in early spring. Nectar is secreted abundantly, and, if weather is suitable, bees work it heavily. Probably but few bees are within reach of the major part of it, since it selects barren low stretches subject to winter flooding. Of considerable importance for stimulative purposes. Medicago.— See "Alfalfa." Mentha. — See "Spearmint." Mesembryanthemum. — See "Ice Plant." Bul. 517] Nectar and P >llen Plants of California 35 Fig. 41. — Parry manzanita, Arctostaphylos manzanita. (Courtesy, J. M. Goodyear.) r 36 University of California — Experiment Station Mesquite, Prosopis juliflora, var. glandulosa, — Mesquite occurs only in the southern part of the state (fig". 42), particularly in the hot eastern interior. It is an important source of nectar but not altogether reliable. This species grows to tree size with sufficient moisture, and is largely confined to the better soils. Flowers in dense spikes (fig. 43, a). Sometimes called honey locust, algaroba, honey mesquite, honey pod, and iron wood. The honey is well flavored; it granulates readily, forming large hard particles which are difficult to liquefy. P. juliflora, called algaroba or keawe, or a similar variety, was early introduced into Hawaii where it thrived and now it produces an immense amount of white honey for export. The screw-bean mesquite, P. pubescens, also contributes its share of nectar. The peculiar screw- bean pods are pictured in figure 43, b. Fig. 42 ^ : /yp% b u & Fig. 43 Fig. 42. — Distribution of mesquite. Fig. 43. — a, Mesquite, Prosopis juliflora. (After Jepson.) o, Screw bean, Prosopis pubescens. (After Jepson.) Mexican Clover. — See "Spanish Clover." Mexican Milkweed.— See "Milkweed." Milkweed, Asclepias spp. — Various species of milkweeds are of wide distribution. In some eastern states milkweeds are a major source of honey, but they seldom occur in this state in sufficient quantity to be of value as a nectar source, although they yield freely. Many bees are caught and held until death by the pollen-bearing parts. Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 37 Milkwort, Polygala cornuta. — A low-growing" perennial occurring extensively in the Sierra Nevada. This yields water-white honey almost every year, as much as 30 pounds surplus being reported from above Placerville. Other species are found almost all over the hills of the state. Milo.— See "Corn." Mistletoe, Phoradendron spp. — The several species of mistletoe afford pollen and nectar. The blossoms are minute and greenish. Fig. 44. — Mistletoe, Phoradendron flavescens. Parasitic on cottonwood, walnut, black locust, sycamore, etc. P. flaves- cens (fig. 44) blossoms in February and March at Davis and is freely visited by bees for pollen and nectar. Perhaps not abundant enough to be of importance. The pine mistletoes belong to the genus Areeu- thobinm, according to Jepson. Mojave Stinkweed, Cleomella obtusifolia. — This is a near relative of jackass clover and the Rocky Mountain bee plant; occurs in the Mojave and Colorado deserts and northward into Inyo County. It has a long blossoming period and is very attractive to bees as a source of nectar. Mountain Balm. — See "Yerba Santa." Mountain Lilac— See "Wild Lilacs." 38 University of California — Experiment Station Mountain Misery, Chamaebatia foliolosa. — This plant is known by a large number of common names. Covers wide stretches of pine wood, open hillside, etc., from Plumas County to Kern County at 3,000 to 6,000 feet elevation (fig. 45). The small, white blossoms (fig. 46) and the nature of growth remind one of a great strawberry planting. Bees visit freely for nectar and pollen. Tulare County and Eldorado County correspondents report the honey to be of good quality and quantity. Mountain Tarweed. — See "Mountain Misery." Mountain Queen. — See "Yucca." Mule Fat.— See "Chaparral Broom." Fig. 46 Fig. 45 Fig. 45. — Distribution of mountain misery. Fig. 46. — Mountain misery, Chamaebatia foliolosa. Low carpet-like growth. Mullein, Verbascum thapsus. — Common, tall growing weed on the coast and inland, particularly along water courses. Not to be con- fused with turkey mullein. Bees visit the yellow blossoms in late summer for nectar, but possibly it is not abundant enough to give surplus honey. Muskmelon. — See "Canteloupe." Mustang.— See "Blue Curls." Mustard, Brassica spp. — Several species in various parts of the state. The white mustard, B. alba, grown commercially in Lompoc Valley, gives honey of light quality. The red or black mustard in the same locality yields a more inferior honey. (The names white, red, etc., do not apply to the blossoms, which are yellow in color.) Red mustard honey is strongly flavored and granulates quickly, often before extraction, into coarse particles, while that from the white is mild, granulating slowly with fine texture. The black mustard of the Buu 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 39 grain fields in the Sacramento Valley fails to yield nectar some seasons, but occasionally a large crop of dark, rapidly granulating honey is obtained. In Napa Valley a naturalized species is common, blos- soming in February and March, producing light-colored honey an- nually. Western wall flower, Erysimum asperum, another member of the mustard family, at 4,000 to 6,000 feet elevation, is an excellent yielder of honey during early spring. Common yellow mustard occurring widely in California is also of considerable importance, especially early in the season. Fig. 47. — Myrtle, Hyrtus communis. Myrtle, Myrtus spp. — Some of the several introduced species are visited nearly throughout the year for small quantities of nectar and much pollen, e.g., Myrtus communis, shown in figure 47. Napa Thistle, Centaurea melitensis. — Abundant and persistent weed over much of the state. It is also called tocalote (fig. 48). Not considered of importance for nectar generally. Bees observed to work it freely for nectar in western Solano County in May of 1924. Nepeta.— See "Catnip." Nigger Weed.— See "Blue Curls." Nightshade, Solanum spp. — Several of the nightshades are reported to be visited by bees. Those in the Sacramento Valley seem to be avoided. Wm. G. Watkins of Placerville has evidence of bees being poisoned when working certain species. 40 University of California — Experiment Station V Fig. 48. — The star thistles: purple, Centaurea calcitrapa (left); tocalote, C. melitensis (upper right) ; and yellow, C. solstitialis. (Courtesy, T. I. Storer.) Fig. 49 Fig. 50 Fig. 49. — Onion seed areas. Fig. 50. — Distribution of orange, Citrus aurantium. Buu 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 41 Oak, Quercus spp. — There are numerous species of oak which should be mentioned in connection with pollen plants. Most of them give pollen and possibly some nectar for the bees. However, honeydew from the multitude of scale and gall insect inhabitants of oaks is of more importance. Great quantities of this are stored by bees annually ; in some cases the color is dark, while again, light colored honeydew is reported. Olive, Olea ewropaea. — Generally grown over much of California. Reported as a major honey plant in Spain. Here it yields but rarely, if ever, in many areas. T. 0. Andrews of Corona states that in 1905 he experienced a heavy flow from olive, but has not had another crop since (1930). This honey was of excellent quality and created a demand which continued for several years. Bees have paid but little attention to these blossoms at Davis during the past ten years. Onion, Allium spp. — The onion-seed growers incidentally produce a great quantity of nectar for the bees. In this state the principal source of onion nectar, as far as cultivation is concerned, is in the lower Sacramento and San Joaquin Delta areas and the Santa. Clara and Imperial valleys (fig. 49). There are a number of native species in mountain and valley which are important locally ; for instance, on the lava beds in Plumas County (elevation 5,500 feet), a pink- blossomed onion about four inches in height swarms with bees in May. This honey ought to enjoy a good demand among onion-loving persons. However, the characteristic onion flavor is said not to be present when the honey is thoroughly ripened. Orange, Citrus auranthmi. — All the citrus fruits produce more or less honey, but the orange leads. The honey from all is of similar quality, being sold as "orange." It carries a heavy orange-blossom odor, which is so pronounced that the mere presence of orange honey on the table will fill the whole room with a delicate aroma. Several carloads of this honey are produced in certain areas (fig. 50) annually and it commands a premium on the market. Good beekeeping is a necessity for procuring this crop since it comes early before the bees, unassisted, are ready to store surplus. The humidity is high during the production and special attention should be given to proper ripen- ing before extraction. Occasionally in southern California, nectar is so abundant that it drops from the blossoms at the slightest jar. Oregon Laurel. — See "Madrone." Our Lord's Candle — See "Yucca." Palm, Phoenix spp. — Many of the palms give an abundance of pollen and possibly some nectar. The staminate and pistillate bios- 42 University of California — Experiment Station soms are on separate trees. The date palm growers consider bees un- favorably because they carry away pollen needed in the common practice of hand pollination. The canary date palm, P. canariensis, at Davis gives a large quantity of whitish pollen which is eagerly col- lected by the hive bee ; figure 51 pictures the pistillate and st animate blossoms of this palm. Palo Verde, Cercidium torreyanum. — Occurs in the dry areas of southeastern California, The yellow flowers appear in April. Bees visit the blossoms freely for nectar and pollen. Said not to be of so great importance for nectar as are the mesquites of the same region. Fig. 51. — Blossoms of Phoenix canariensis, the Canary Islands' date palm. The pistillate flowers are shown on the left. Passion Flower, Passiflora edulis. — The blossoms are large and showy, being very attractive to bees for nectar and pollen. Nectar is visible in the nectaries throughout the day. Pennyroyal. — See ''Spearmint.'' Pentstemon, Pentstemon spp. — Several members of this genus secrete nectar freely enough to be of some value to bees. Various species occur throughout the state. P. breviflorus is eagerly visited for nectar in Alpine County during late summer. P. antirrhinoides, along with black sage, gave a 5 to 8-pound daily increase per hive about Moreno in May, 1926. Peppermint. — See "Spearmint." Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 43 Pepper Tree, Schinus moile. — Grows throughout southern and central California at low altitudes ; freezes back severely to the north- ward. The several blossoming periods all are visited by bees for nectar. The honey has a hot, peppery taste. Pepper Wood. — See ' ' California Laurel. ' ' Persimmon, Diospyros spp. — The cultivated persimmon acreage in California is about 2,500 acres. Bees visit the blossoms eagerly for nectar and pollen, but few locations have enough of the trees within reach to yield surplus honey. As with most of the other deciduous fruits, the flow is considered but stimulative, although in the eastern part of the United States the wild persimmon is locally considered important. Phacelia, Phacelia spp. — Some of the species occur almost every- where in patches. An important source of nectar of good quality. Under experimental cultivation at Davis, Phacelia tanacetifolia gave a small surplus of light-green honey of fine flavor, and great quantities of dark blue pollen. Carloads of honey were reported from Ventura County from caterpillar phacelia, P. hispida, in 1908. Pine, Pinus, spp. — Honey dew from pine, fir, cedar, etc., sometimes piles up rapidly in the hives. " White cedar honey is of light color, granulates snow white, and enjoys a good local demand," Wm. G. Watkins of Plaeerville reports. Pine pollen, which is very abundant, is collected but little by bees. Many cases of comb honey (amber honeydew) were harvested "from pines" above Plaeerville in 1930 by a Sacramento beekeeper. Apiaries, recently placed above Plaeer- ville, registered a daily gain of two to three pounds per colony of thick dark honeydew from incense cedar. The insect responsible for the exudate was the cottony cypress scale, Ehrhornia cupressi Ehrhorn. Pittosporum, Pittosporum spp. — Members of this group are used rather extensively in ornamental plantings. Some of these are hardy only along the coast. Bees visit the blossoms freely for nectar and pollen but the actual value for honey is not great. Plantain.— See "Buckhorn." Poison Oak, Rhus diver siloba. — Widely distributed over the Coast ranges and Sierra Nevada up to 5,000 feet. An important addition to the nectar flora in many areas, particularly in the Coast ranges. The honey is of good quality but granulates rapidly; sometimes frost-like crystals of it collect on the side of the extractor. Other species of the same genus are important as a source of amber honey in southern California and elsewhere. Polygala.— See "Milkwort." 44 University of California — Experiment Station Polygonum. — See ' ' Smartweed. ' ' Pomegranate, Punica gmnatum. — A common cultivated plant. The bees visit it freely for nectar and pollen. Pomelo. — See "Orange." Pond Dogwood.— See "Button Willow." Poplar.— See "Tulip Tree." Poppy, Eschscholtzia spp. — The California poppy is exceedingly abundant in spring. Bees secure orange-colored pollen and possibly some nectar. No honey surplus from it has been observed by the writer. Certain cultivated poppies are reported to be somewhat injuri- ous to the bees visiting them Fig. 52 Fig. 53 Fig. 52. — Distribution of purple sage. Fig. 53. — Purple sage, Salvia leucophylla, with bee on blossom. (Courtesy, E. E. Koot.) Possum Wood. — See "Persimmon." Prickly Pear.— See "Cactus." Privet, Ligustrum spp. — The blossoms of all are attractive to bees, affording, no doubt, a considerable of the sum total from miscellaneous nectar and pollen sources. The blooming period extends over two or three weeks. Pumpkin. — See "Canteloupe." Purple Medic— See "Alfalfa." Purple Sage, Salvia leucophylla. — Grows more rankly than the black sage and the plants are of a decidedly lighter color. The com- mon name, silver sage, no doubt refers to the silvery appearance of the plants at a distance. But few patches occur outside the area indi- cated in the accompanying map, figure 52. This plant (fig. 53), is Bul. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 45 equal in producing' possibilities to the black sage, but it has a much narrower distribution, being reported by Jepson to only 1,500 feet elevation. Purple Star Thistle, Centaur ea ealcitrapa. — Widely scattered about the San Francisco Bay region, inland, and northward, but usually not abundant. This weed (fig. 48) is possessed of much heavier spines than is the yellow star thistle. Bees visit the blossoms freely for nectar. Quixote. — See "Yucca." Fig. 54. — Eedbud, Cercis occidentalis Rabbit Brush, Crysothamnus nauseosus. — Abundant in areas east of the high mountains (Alpine, Inyo, Modoc, etc., counties). There seem to be almost innumerable varieties. Yields considerable honey of very inferior quality. This dark honey of disagreeable taste and smell, is left in the hives for winter food. Luckily it comes in after the better honeys from alfalfa, sweet clover, and fire weed are harvested. Radish (wild), Raphanus sativus. — Becoming an abundant weed over the state. Bees store more or less nectar from it in the Sacra- mento Valley and elsewhere. Under suitable moisture conditions, it will continue to blossom throughout the summer, but the major bloom is in early spring. 46 University of California — Experiment Station Ramona. — See "Creeping Sage." Ramshorn. — See "Catclaw" and "Acacias." Raspberry, Rubus spp. — Several species of wide distribution over hill and mountain. All yield some nectar and pollen. The thimble- berry from 4,000 to 8,000 feet elevation is of considerable importance. In the Great Lakes region, raspberries constitute a major source of nectar, and the honey is of very high quality. The blackberry belongs to this same genus but does not have the reputation of being of much value for nectar except in the mountains. Red Berry. — See "Christmas Berry" and "Hollyberry." Redbud (western), Cercis occidentalis. — Small tree, widely dis- tributed (up to 4,000 feet), relatively scarce except locally. It blos- soms almost too early for best results for honey, but is visited freely on warm days by the honeybees and other bees for pollen and nectar (fig. 54). Rhododendron. — See "Azalea." Ribwort.— See "Buckhorn." Rocky Mountain Bee Plant. — See "Cleome." Roman Candle. — See "Yucca." Running Oak. — See "Mountain Misery." Russian Thistle, Salsola kali, var. tenuifolia, — Numerous reports are current which credit this plant as of some value to bees for nectar. San Joaquin Valley apiarists in particular have a good word for it. Becoming widely abundant. Sagebrush, Artemisia spp. — Several native species of wide distri- bution. A source of pollen only. The sagebrush is often mistaken for the true sages which are important honey plants, belonging to the genus Salvia and not Artemisia, Sage, Salvia spp. — Several salvias (see also black, purple, and white sages) are worthy of mention as minor sources of nectar. Creeping sage, S. sonomensis, is reported important at various points in the Sierra Nevada, (fig. 29) where it yields a superior quality of honey. Chia, S. eolumbariae, is widely scattered over southern Cali- fornia and northward on the mountain ranges into northern Cali- fornia. Visited freely by bees and no doubt is of considerable importance wherever abundant. Crimson sage or hummingbird sage, S. spatheceae, occuring in the Coast range mountains does not have a good reputation as a honey plant, it being claimed that the bees cannot get nectar from the deep blossoms. This is not the case, how- ever, for bees in large numbers have been observed gathering nectar from this species in the Vaca mountains on many occasions. Jepson lists about 15 species of the genus Salvia, with a number of varieties. Bui,. 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 47 The sage worm, Platypillia marmarodactyla Dyar, is an insect often referred to by beekeepers. Very little is known of its life history or habits, in spite of the fact that as far back as 1907 it was consid- ered a serious pest. Apparently when conditions are favorable for sage growth the worm is forgotten. Both black and purple sage buttons are attacked even before and after blossoming. .This insect belongs to the lepidopterous group. Salt Cedar.— See "Tamarisk." Screw Bean. — See "Mesquite." Scrophularia. — See "California Honey Plant." Sea Fig or Sea Marigold.— See "Ice Plant." Shaddock. — See "Orange." Sheep's Tansy.— See "Phacelia." Sierra Plum. — See "Desert Peach." Silk-Oak, Grevillea robusta. — Much used in parts of southern and central California for street and home trees. Bees visit them eagerly over several weeks. The honey is said to be dark and heavy. Smartweed, Polygonum spp. — These moisture-loving weeds con- stitute an important source of amber honey. Several species occur over the state and blossom freely toward fall. Acres of solid stand have been observed in the marsh lands of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and also below irrigation ditches in the northern end of the Sacramento Valley. The rice lands are likely to quickly become edged with these weeds. Snowberry, Symphoricarpos albus. — Of wide distribution in the lower hill country of California, particularly northward. Bees visit the small blossoms eagerly for nectar. Constitutes an important sec- ondary source of nectar, wherever abundant enough. Soap Root or Soap Plant, Chlorogalum pomeridianu-m. — The blos- soms open in early evening and remain open until well into the morning. Of wide distribution and locally abundant in the hills of the state. Of much value to bees in Napa County and no doubt elsewhere. Spanish Clover, Lotus sp. — Occurs widely; is abundant in Sacra- mento Valley and throughout the hills westward to the Pacific Ocean. The roadsides and fields about Sonoma afford considerable honey from this source. Spanish Dagger or Bayonet. — See "Yucca. Spanish Thistle.— See "Clotbur." Spanish Trefoil.— See "Alfalfa." •> ' 48 University of California — Experiment Station Spearmint, Mentha spicata. — Escaped in many wet places. Judging from the manner in which bees work it, this plant (fig. 55) must secrete nectar abundantly. Richter lists this plant as yielding amber honey in Sacramento County. Other species of the genus of some importance here are : tule mint, M. arvensis; pennyroyal, M. pulegium (fig. 56) ; and peppermint, M. piperita. The first two occur in wet patches along our north coast and inland. Bees visit them freely for nectar. Spearmint and pepper- mint are cultivated rather extensively to the north of California. Fig. 56 Fig. 55 Fig. 55. — Spearmint, Mentha spicata. Fig. 56. — Pennyroyal, Mentha pulegium. Compare with figure 55. Spice Tree. — See "California Laurel." Spider Plant.— See "Cleome." Spikeweed.— See "Alkali Weed." Spiny Cocklebur.— See "Clotbur." Squash. — See "Canteloupe." Squaw Carpet. — See "Mountain Misery." Squaw Waterweed. — See "Chaparral Broom." Star Thistle.— See "Yellow Star Thistle," "Purple Star Thistle," and "Napa Thistle." Bul, 517] Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 49 St. Johnswort, Hypericum spp. — Reported to be of value to bees for both pollen and nectar in many sections, where it is becoming a serious pest on livestock ranges. 11 Some of these plants are used in landscaping. Easily confused with the milkworts, poly gala. Stinkweed. — See "Jackass Clover." Strawberry, Frag aria sp. — Visited by bees for nectar and pollen. No record of surplus honey found. Sudan Grass.— See "Corn." Fig. 57. — A sumae, Rhus integrifolia. (Courtesy, F. C. Pellett.) Sumac, Rhus laurina. — This species (laurel sumac) is abundant in southern California, giving a surplus honey crop in San Diego County particularly. Squaw bush, R. trilobate, easily confused with poison oak, is widely distributed. It blossoms early in the season before the leaves come out. Lemonade-berry or mahogany sumac, R. integrifolia, is also a southern coast species of considerable value to bees in March (fig. 57). Sugar bush, 72. ovata, of coastal southern California ii Sampson, A. W., and K. W. Parker. St. Johnswort on range lands of California. California Agr. Exp. Sta. Bul. 503:1-48. 1930. 50 University of California — Experiment Station blossoms in winter. Poison oak, an important source of excellent honey, also belongs to the Rhus genus. Sunflower, Helianthus spp. — The common sunflower and others of the group furnish much pollen and some nectar for bees. Where abundant enough, a quantity of dark honey is stored in late summer and fall. The San Joaquin Valley reports the major part of the sun- flower honey. Sweet Fennel.— See "Fennel." Sweet Clover, Melilotus alba. — Found throughout the state along water courses. Probably, on account of scarcity, not of importance any place except in the far northern part of the state. Eagerly visited by bees everywhere. Both the biennial and annual varieties occur. Certain other species of the genus are common in parts of this state but are not reported to be of much value to bees. Tamarisk, Tamarix spp. — Two species common, T. articulata, com- monly called athel tree, is used extensively in Imperial Valley and elsewhere as a windbreak. There the tree blossoms in summer, yield- ing liberal quantities of light amber honey which granulates with rapidity even in the hives. This evergreen species does not blossom at Davis, where it has been used for 10 or more years. T. gallica (salt cedar, French tamarisk) is found very widely distributed. It is deciduous and very hardy. The blossoms are pink in color, appearing in late spring and on many plants a second time during summer. Bees work them freely for nectar and pollen. Reported to give surplus honey in Arizona, Tanglefoot.— See "Wild Alfalfa." Tarweed, Hemizonia< spp. — Many plants are commonly called tar- weeds, but most of them in California belong to the genus Hemitonia. It is a large genus of almost state-wide distribution containing sev- eral good nectar plants. One species, H. congesta (fig. 58), gives a light-colored honey of good flavor, but most of the group is reported to yield a dark honey of somewhat strong flavor. Many of the plants are covered with a tar-like coating which has a penetrating odor. Teasel, Dipsacus fullonum. — A plant which yields a tremendous amount of nectar; as many as three or four bees may work a, single flowering head almost continuously through the day. A weed in waste places particularly along the coast. It is cultivated at times for the spiny flower heads which are still used somewhat in combing fibers. Some observers have reported bees, dead from some unkown cause, on these blossoms. Tetradymia.— See ''Cotton Thorn." Bul. 517 Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 51 Thimble-Berry. — See ' ' Raspberry. ' ' Thistle Sage.— See " Sages." Tocalote.— See "Napa Thistle." Toyon. — See "Christmas Berry." Tree of Heaven, Ailanthus glandulosa. — An introduced species now widely escaped. Some of the hills of Pleasants Valley, Solano County, are thickly dotted with these trees. Yields nectar heavily in spring; honey dark and strong. The objectionable flavor is reported to be lost sometimes after extraction. Fig. 59 Fig. 58 Fig. 58. — A Sacramento Valley tarweed. Fig. 59. — Ivy, Parthenocissus sp. Tule Mint.— See "Spearmint." Tulip Tree, Liriodendron tulipifera. — Used for ornamental plant- ing in gardens and along roadways. The flowers are very large (re- sembling tulips), each producing so much nectar that it may drop off. An important and reliable source of amber honey in the south- eastern United States. Turkey Mullein, Eremoearpus seiigerus. — Widely scattered over the state, often abundant in stubble fields. Not a reliable source of nectar, but sometimes yielding heavily in late summer and fall. Honey of inferior quality, sold for use in manufacturing or left in the hive for wintering. Turpentine Weed. — See "Blue Curls." Umbrella Tree, Melia azedarach. — Used extensively as street trees in the interior, makes a very dense shade ; deciduous ; fruit a dehiscent drupe. Bees store honey from it at a time when the colony needs are great for brood rearing. 52 University of California — Experiment Station •> i Valley Vervena. — See "Phacelia. Vetch, Vicia spp. — Of the many varieties of vetch growing experi- mentally on the University Farm, Davis, but few are attractive to bees. Hairy vetch was visited freely for nectar, while the Hungarian variety was completely ignored. Hairy vetch is reported to be some- what important for honey in Oregon. There are both native and introduced vetches growing over California, particularly in the hills, but they apparently are not to be considered seriously as nectar sources. Both floral and extra-floral nectaries occur in the vetches. Vinegar Weed.— See "Blue Curls." Virginia Creeper, Parthenocissus spp. — This and similar climbers about our homes (English ivy, fig. 59) are eagerly visited by bees for pollen and nectar. Too scarce to be of much value. Vitex, Vitex negundo var. incisa. — A plant of Chinese origin now being offered for sale, by nurserymen in Missouri and Kansas, for honey production. It was introduced and distributed some years ago by the U. S. Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Plant Industry. Ornamental specimens are observed about homes, but it is doubtful if it occurs in sufficient quantity to be of much importance. One of the species of vitex, (Vitex agnus-castus) , commonly called chaste-tree, hemp tree, or monk's pepper tree, is reported to be of little value to bees in Texas. Wahoo. — See "Cascara." Walnut, Juglans spp. — Bees collect much pollen from the Cali- fornia black walnut, J. Mndsii, at Davis. They are also reported to collect some pollen from the English walnut. The walnut aphis throws off honeydew during the summer and fall, which bees at times collect. Watermelon. — See "Canteloupe." Water Motor. — See "Chaparral Broom." Wattle. — See "Acacias." Waxberry. — See ' ' Snowberry. ' ' Wax Myrtle, Myrica californica. — This species sometimes also called ' ' myrtle " ; is often mentioned as a honey plant along the coast. Western Choke Cherry. — See "Desert Peach." White Clover, Trifolium repens. — A famous honey plant over much of the world. Occurs in California largely in lawns and along irrigation ditches, becoming abundant in the northwestern part of the state in meadows. Requires much moisture. Bees do not work it with much enthusiasm in the lowlands of California, probably because nectar is scarce in it. Bul. 517 Nectar and Pollen Plants of California 53 White Sage, Salvia apiana. — San Diego County is the chief source of honey from this plant (fig. 60). Reported up to 2,500 feet altitude. The plants are white in color (fig. 61). Bees apparently experience some difficulty in procuring the nectar, on account of the structure of the blossom, until a quantity of it is secreted. Seeds of this plant were carried to Monterey County in 1888 and the plants still persist there (1930) near Soledad. Fig. 60 Fig. 61 Fig. 60. — Distribution of white sage. Fig. 61. — White sage, Salvia apiana. Whitewood. — See "Basswood." Wild Alfalfa, Lotus scoparius. — This plant, which is not a true alfalfa, grows in dense masses on hills and mountain sides. After a fire, for perhaps three years, the burned hillsides become a tangled mass of this plant; then, when the shrubby plants grow up again, it loses its place. Figure 62 shows the blossoms and leaves. A fickle yielder of excellent honey. Gives a, good yield in San Luis Obispo and Tulare counties. Wild Broom.— See "Wild Alfalfa." Wild Carrot.— See "Carrot." Wild Hollyhock, Sidalcea malvaeflora. — Of importance for nectar and especially pollen from January to May in the Imperial Valley and elsewhere. Grows particularly along ditches and roadsides. The holly- hock of our gardens, Althaea rosea, everywhere yields an abundance of pollen and a little nectar for the bees throughout the summer. 54 University of California — Experiment Station Wild Lilac, Ceanothus spp. — A very large group of plants produc- ing both nectar and pollen ; the latter in great abundance. The various species at differing altitudes blossom over a long period of time. The common species, C. cuneatus, is usually spoken of as chaparral or buckbrush. The name buckbrush is also applied to numerous other shrubs. Fig. 62. — Wild alfalfa, Lotus scoparius. Willow, Salix spp. — Abundant over all the state along water courses and other places with abundant soil moisture. A very impor- tant source of nectar and pollen for early brood rearing ; many queen yards are located in willow areas. Insect inhabitants of willows often occasion the presence of much honeydew through the summer and fall. BUI,. 517] NECTAR AND POLLEN PLANTS OF CALIFORNIA 55 Willow Herb.— See "Fireweed." Willow Weed.— See ' ' Smartweed. " Wisteria, Wisteria sinensis spp. — Vary attractive to bees for both pollen and nectar in spring, but perhaps not abundant enough to be of much value. Woolly Breeches. — See "Amsinckia." Woolly White.— See "Turkey Mullein." Yellow Poplar.— See "Tulip Tree." Fig. 63. — Distribution of yellow star thistle, Centaurea solstitialis. Yellow Star Thistle, Centaurea solstitialis. — Becoming a serious weed, especially in grain fields. This Aveed (fig. 48) is making its appearance along the highways and railroads at many points in the state (fig. 63). The nectar flow is a very slow one, but continuous, rarely yielding more than a can (60 pounds) of honey to the colony. This honey granulates readily, is of fine flavor, and now enjoys a special demand. Yerba Del Oso.— See " Coffee Berry." Yerba Del Pescado.— See "Turkey Mullein." Yerba Santa, Eriodictyon calif 'ornic mm, — This species, occurring in northern California, has smooth, shiny leaves and white or pale- blue blossoms. It is of much value to bees, apparently secreting nectar all day long. There is enough of it in spots to be of decided value for surplus in early summer. Amber honey of persistent spicy flavor. The downy-leaved species, E. trichocalyx, of southern California, is of little, if any, value for nectar. Yucca, Hesperoyucca whipplei. — A most conspicuous plant of the southern coastwise hills and along the Sierra Nevada foothills into Fresno County. Visited but meagerly by bees for nectar and pollen. s > 03 1 a a i s a -^ o3 3 a o -g 3iigj§ iiiife>^i§ o a a g 3 3 o — s s h^ah o o -f' .-s 1 1, 1 5 e2 S ~ $ £ bC g 3 X *J bfi -d 3 £ a o 03 -^ 3 £ CD bC V a o a 03 *» 03 .3 £ J M J bC 3 £ P as •-* CO Ho ^2 as o - S Q a >> a a CD a a 3 a; | a^ ft "o3 3 "o3 CO fe CO [i. a 1 a ■8 a a 3 co co M ^ H ? "S M fi Sss § 5 5 ■fi C £ bfi •£ 3 O, ft ft 3 ft 3 co <3 > g >> >> "G 3 o3 03 a a 5 i a m «« § Ph 5* Ph el O £ 3 2 2 £ 5* « -w ^ .g S -2 -« .-e ^ 5 x U XI ,2 j2 Ph ^ 5* ^ pq pq ? f- 3 a g 03 xi « £ > pq Q IK t- © .5 O 5* Ph m 3 o3£ 553 £ *0 .2 o ■+3 t-i -5 CD £ 5 > 55 55 111 II £ £ 55 55 55 1 1 CD CO CD CD 55 55 55 55 CD* Tl > 8 T3 > g TJ 11-8 i si S i-s •^3 > CO rtw 03 03 CD 03 03 CD J CD O O CD ' 3 3 a a posi min gina posi ceae posi CD 03 s I 3 8 3 3 a a g a « a 03 C ^ ti O^fflQ^O ^ W ■s-s-^ 3 CO T3 .2 o CD CD § S 3 .S .2 bj ^Q ^Q 3 -^ -I § CD ^ ™ a^ ffl S CD 03 s_/ O CD O « « * -S 3 i § 5 bC SP *§ i-q^Kq^SpM Wi-q >> •« J fe M SS v-* o CD S 03 3 § 8 T) X C? ■§ 1 -a e S Ph O CO CO 3 |*£ 03 3 CD h^ O > ■2 -* § -s -5 g M fe © O «J ^ CD — T3 03 Oi < < CD O •; is ^5 CD _B Jf a ^ 'S o x'M a t <5 «< «< !5 5 •2 ft "0 -§ 14 o "3 § -2 g 3 co ^ S 03 03 H 03 X U 3 3 O "S % M 3 O O « O CD CD 3 i S S - s „ oi & ^ C$ 0$ & yy u o u £>? oo«ooooo>, goo a C C £ £ i o o o o o o liS^S^ o II o J o ft? o 3 .3 fl .3 a S fo S fe £ o o o o S S S S S g Mj3 «! 3 £ o a I 5 J MX © a © © ^ £ J «< I S'i ag 11 :>, 3 J 3 3 a ^ s a i ^ £ a £ "S . a5» |9 Q, d H h Q, 3 rti *T ft ft 3 ~ > 2 £ 2 a .s * d x; 3 <-. s fe fft 02 Ph i-s o§ ft, to ~.2 OS <— w * — ■—' — ■ w w e3 +j .2 .-S .-s £ £ © .-£ © © .-3 .-§ J2 £ £ a .2 .2 j= £"©.$? "© 3 9 § T3 © £ © * ^ .-§ -2 e3 '-S 73 Q £<< 3 s pq^ I L,"0 © 3 o3£ 73 -5 ! O O © -h © 3 3 o o ^£^^^^;££^;^; £ £ fc 5 •= °3 © © © © > > > > ■43 -43 -43 a g> -43 -43 rt c3 rt ^ _ ( c3 ^ ^ o o o o o o o o £ £ 03 c3 o .9 * o ft 09 O ^ ^ c Ph Ph G ^ 3 Sa 3 o v_ ' 7 © 02 c3 © © .- o v — c o3 5! c£ oj .2 qj o3 C 3 (U « a a h-i >-i ^ « a o a o q o c3 o q cs tf O O O Ph O © © 02 m ^ -2 « s o O 3 3 S a cs O -3 O P4 35-sPl .5 OS© a s I o 02 co in *— O O 2 tf Ph b m © a o © Sc3 c3 co co O O O 3 O s ? © J5 2 — W 3 fe © > O 03 u Ph © >> — o S 2- OPhSOJPh^OP^Ph o > &o 03 o & 03 ^ © r3 M 8 2 =S •§ ^ S 2 § P O M- — ga §P S 2- £ a © a g a o3 O O :3. o o > Oh4 2 a S 'C O ^ ^ CO S B « "5 » 03 — £ -s 3 © c3 o 3 g HO ♦> -p ■»; s 1 1 a s O 'M 2 « ■5^3 « fc g — CO — - >> a © o "co a co os co ra _c _e J-; j= -s „ oouooooooo CO e II _ o © o © ■"? 2 O O Q •5 S B 00 K <» a •* ■s.b 03 ^ °° S ^ C3 3 g 3 5 ^ ■-■ o w a co co © o © © © 73 -° © a 5 OOOOOOOOQPQQQ a o ^3 3 73 73 3 "S bq © -« •^ © o a ft.* © CD " Si !S ©51 S 1! C 05 co .3 es a _s o o o o o o 05 O O a J I- >, u u O v O O ^ H §§ §S§§hS II II a a ££§ C fi fl a .ft c hSSS 42 05 3 O a x 2 03 > o3 -G Q£ * . -2 S2« £«<£ 9) I pill .■*J -* -G 1 bfi £ 1 3 111 M bfi >»«H «-. G G o3 -o s'a B S 3 a J o3 H if! a. p t_ 3 a (H 0) 3 3 X fn m OQ 3 ^ 53 S - « 3 " 3 « j. rH t . g >ig >>>>>>>> c 3 ^ 3 ^ 3 3 3 > ft "C ^ 05 G S £■1 a 3 a 3 1-5CC 50 fc « § « S 35 a ^ -g -c a CD S. ft 3 to w< ™ oS o.2 OS 33 O 05 05 C t- o3 o > « a -2 I I a « S2 ft ^ ,2 a .-§ 3 T3 ^33 S S J 4) 3 4) > 3 * * p. "2 40 x .2 3 § .a .s £3 ^ Ah Oh > > u u o o o •£ •fe -J3 ** 08 ,5 £ .5 fe >, x R 03 « w Uh C5 O * O E w P rt T3 03 ,_, —. 0) -2 J, » J g 0) >, £ o a a> ^ -^ « •« U S u 05 ■■g -s I .§> & ^ s? j y tDn-l^pqOMt-lpH _l II "ee "ol s a s w w 03 _ ft "° SP. Ah ^ O IT ® H a a 3 be "Ess r9 O -~-> » w »-c 4) *o O O w w w w s i J 5 I G §1 ft & o o is rt I? a g O u "3 I a ? 3 • s PL, ft O . ft "« •S 05 CO 3 § 4 K * g «o a « £ I § ■^ w 03 O 03 O 05 ja T3 ■■go S « ft "5 1 « i •2 J ^ Pj, Oh I •2 s 6 J B S 05 rO ft 2 9« S K B S 5 g B g B » ^2, p ^ hWJh4 s ^ s G <» ™ T3 a. ^ a s £ 12; o3 a m O 03 jC 03 3 2 "£ a o C G ss£ g e i i SS>SfeSSSS o o — C G .= bO «~ G S'i si -O Si a a M bC 3 3 •fi a a I I I I I I 1 ■* -S ! 1 5 1 bC .2 jG 03 1 3 1 £ £ 23^2 * 2 ,g s ~,2 OS a a § OJ 5 — §•— i a a o, a 3 -< »* 1 9 < fe c t- — a 03 » G o> jG bs SI a a X bj G ft X js s be G •"? X Marc May Sprin § X Sprin Sum June July- a "ft G £ ^ t- - OB q G a oj .2 T3 0) DQ 3 o 'E 9 a ft si > "3 4 -C A "m -G > ri >H ££ £ £ £ 1* a a u o w a * O Ph a ^ OJ OJ £ a o o a * ^cjaaua^ioj a>a>fc,33 1 > o 5 S S 8 «3 I | I | I | I 1 I £ fc £ £ ££ fc £ £ £ fc 03 03 "g £ £ £ tl 1 £ I So fe o o bf 03 S3 c5 >» Liliaceae (Lily) Rutaceae (Rue) Palmaceae (Palm) Leguminosae (Pea) Passifloraceae (Passi 13 OJ 83 o a "5 ,4 a a 1 o Anacardiaceae (Sum Ebenaceae (Ebony) Hydrophyllaceae .5 Z o -G E "a?

O ■« I | § ^ ^ S 03 -G G i_ o3 o3 o3 O O O O Ph Ah Ph I a S) 03 i? §&. o> a is S'g J Ph Ph Ph _ 5 K t-, ■•• o — ' 03 G t^ ^ -8 J 5 " _ © -w a s %) ■I 3 •3 °° C G Ph Ph 1^ 1 h 6C -2 -« safe- 2 -S m S -2 fv> s G ^ _. ^- S a) J) •S 2 ^ 1 .1 J * b^5 ^-O 5oT3 « 03 o3 03 V 3 PS Ph Ph Ph Ph •S-8 03 O ^ V. S. °2 ^3 o t: 03 o3 r2 C X X X X fl» 8* o a fl 5 s s s .t! fl fl fl i2 i i i a a C .53 >! u, U (-1 u u SfoSShfeSSSSS o o o o fl fl fl c o p. a 4§ fl c o3 o3 aa a a £ § «! •< £ -< 3 £ ._, fl a a ■V M O >> a i- ftfl^flaHS^w,^ COi-jCOh^ceScOCOS U3 a a « o> § i? ^ 1-9 ■< -+? 03 « a ^ CO CO CO a S h 1 § 1 § -c i ^c3Q.«o3H,oa ^^§ h* £ £ £ c £ ,2 « oJ2 oi n o> Ola O) > >> -fl ^ -fl .2 jfl fl a -3 IS &%'£'£'£'£%'£ £££>< ^S^^^^^Ph^ hh PL| •-h 03 o o ■e fl3 S3 03 > ^ 'fl g 0> 03 » 0> 13 -.S oa o 3 '3 =3 £ m ^ 1° .2 * a o eu Ph si II J5 fl 1 "g "8 T3 .S 0) 2 «« £ fc O oM C3 C3 O fl fl fl fl o .£ .£ o o > o WU IN _| -h W H £ £ £ £ £ £ O O £ ° ►5 fl „, 3 3 fc £££ 03 -rt 03 03 03 03 > o > .> > > S I I 1-1 w « -u u 5? a 03 O ^< >» 2 fl fl G ^ 2 m a cs oi C? S — ' o H « © -fl g § o 2 o> fl •S "3 a ►> "-^ 6 S O ■« fl 03 3 03 OOBShS isJj 03 .tS 03 3 Hi > > £ "~rT 03 |s! II- 8 ra fl -hi •2§2 ^03 03 § Hi Kl g I fl g a § a > 03 * Hi S 3 ,2 a s -fl 03 c& CO 0> fl Ph fl — ' CO o 43 .a "a a a S' O Hi O O o3 03 "P » .2 W h1 •s ^ a ^ s « « o>3 ?ta a ~o o r 2 *^ O fl a 3 03 a i= o « 3 03 ^ o a a *.. CO CO CO CO J2 o tS 03 SI CO CO ? c , , q^ G d) fl tf CO CO •2 'c ^ ~ t2 * S > S B 13 ° Sf 03 0) M 03 03 03 03 Oi fc. H H H H 01 § « I" aO a e § 03 "? '53 ^ '2 § I'll -*-> >> ^ 3 •&|£ g 3 a a ^ H E-i P o ft § 03 S> s sill > > > ^ s ^ H ? „ « S 2 ^53 CO — ."= ."S X) 43 -fl r^ "C x> =3 « a a a 3 -2 'a o STATION PUBLICATIONS AVAILABLE FOR FREE DISTRIBUTION BULLETINS No. 253. Irrigation and Soil Conditions in the Sierra Nevada Foothills, California. 263. Size Grades for Ripe Olives. 279. Irrigation of Rice in California. 283. The Olive Insects of California. 310. Plum Pollination. 331. Phylloxera-resistant Stocks. 335. Cocoanut Meal as a Feed for Dairy Cows and Other Livestock. 343. Cheese Pests and Their Control. 348. Pruning Young Olive Trees. 349. A Study of Sidedraft and Tractor Hitches. 357. A Self-Mixing Dusting Machine for Applying Dry Insecticides and Fun- gicides. 361. Preliminary Yield Tables for Second- Growth Redwood. 364. Fungicidal Dusts for the Control of Bunt. 368. Bacterial Decomposition of Olives During Pickling. 369. Comparison of Woods for Butter Boxes. 370. Factors Influencing the Development of Internal Browning of the Yellow Newtown Apple. 371. The Relative Cost of Yarding Small and Larp'e Timber. 3 73. Pear Pollination. 374. A Survey of Orchard Practices in the Citrus Industry of Southern Cali- fornia. 379. Walnut Culture in California. 386. Pruning Bearing Deciduous Fruit Trees. 389. Berseem or Egyptian Clover. 392. Fruit Juice Concentrates. 393. Crop Sequences at Davis. 394. I. Cereal Hay Production in California. II. Feeding Trials with Cereal Havs. 396. The Mat Bean. Phaseolus Aconitifolius. 404. The Dehydration of Prunes. 406. Stationary Spray Plants in California. 407. Yield. Stand, and Volume Tables for White Fir in the California Pine Region. 408. Alternaria Rot of Lemons. 409. The Digestibility of Certain Fruit By- products as Determined for Rumi- nants. Part I. Dried Orange Pulp and Raisin Pulp. 410. Factors Influencing the Quality of Fresh Asparagus After it is Harvested. 416. Culture of the Oriental Persimmon in California. 417. Poultry Feeding: Principles and Prac- tice. 418. A Study of Various Rations for Fin- ishing Range Calves as Baby Beeves. 419. Economic Aspects of the Cantaloupe Industry. 420. Rice and Rice By-Products as Feeds for Fattening Swine. 421. Beef Cattle Feeding Trials, 1921-24. 423. Apricots (Series on California Crops and Prices). 425. Apple Growing in California. 426. Apple Pollination Studies in California. 427. The Value of Orange Pulp for Milk Production. 428. The Relation of Maturity of California Plums to Shipping and Dessert Quality. 431. Raisin By-Products and Bean Screen- ings as Feeds for Fattening Lambs. 432. Some Economic Problems Involved in the Pooling of Fruit. No. 433. 435. 436. 439. 440. 445. 446. 447. 448. 449. 450. 452. 454. 455. 456. 458. 459. 462. 464. 465. 466. 467. 468. 469. 470. 471. 472. 473. 474. 475. 476. 477. 479. 480. 481. 482. 483. 484. 485. Power Requirements of Electrically Driven Dairy Manufacturing Equip- ment. The Problem of Securing Closer Rela- tionship between Agricultural Devel- opment and Irrigation Construction. I. The Kadota Fig. II. The Kadota Fig Products. The Digestibility of Certain Fruit By- Products as Determined for Rumi- nants. Part II. Dried Pineapple Pulp, Dried Lemon Pulp, and Dried Olive Pulp. The Feeding: Value of Raisins and Dairy By-Products for Growing and Fattening Swine. Economic Aspects of the Apple In- dustry. The Asparagus Industry in California. A Method of Determining the Clean Weights of Individual Fleeces of Wool. Farmers' Purchase Agreement for Deep Well Pumps. Economic Aspects of the Watermelon Industry. Irrigation Investigations with Field Crops at Davis, and at Delhi, Cali- fornia, 1909-1925. Economic Aspects of the Pear Industry. Rice Experiments in Sacramento Val- ley, 1922-1927. Reclamation of the Fresno Type of Black-Alkali Soil. Yield, Stand and Volume Tables for Red Fir in California. Factors Influencing Percentage Calf Crop in Range Herds. Economic Aspects of the Fresh Plum Industry. Prune Sunnly and Price Situation. Drainage in the Sacramento 'Valley Rice Fields. Curly Top Symptoms of the Sugar Beet. The Continuous Can Washer for Dairy Plants. Oat Varieties in California. Sterilization of Dairy Utensils with Humidified Hot Air. The Solar Heater. Maturity Standards for Harvesting Bartlett Pears for Eastern Shipment. The Use of Sulfur Dioxide in Shipping Grapes. Adobe Construction. Economic Aspects of the Sheep In- dustry. Factors Affecting the Cost of Tractor Logging in the California Pine Region. Walnut Supply and Price Situation. Poultry Houses and Equipment. Improved Methods of Harvesting Grain Sorghum. I. Irrigation Experiments with Peaches in California. II. Canning Quality of Irrigated Peaches. The Use, Value, and Cost of Credit in Agriculture. Utilization of Wild Oat Hay for Fat- tening Yearling Steers. Substitutes for Wooden Breakpins. Utilization of Surplus Prunes. The Effects of Desiccating Winds on Citrus Trees. Drying Cut Fruits. BULLETINS— ( Continued ) No. 486. Pullorum Disease (Bacillary White Diarrhea of Chickens). Asparagus (Series on California Crops and Prices). 488. Cherries (Series on California Crops and Prices). Irrigation Water Requirement Studies of Citrus and Avocado Trees in San Diego County, California, 1926 and 1927. Olive Thinning and Other Means of Increasing Size of Olives. Yield, Stand, and Volume Tables for Douglas Fir in California. Berry Thinning of Grapes. Fruit Markets in Eastern Asia. 494. Infectious Bronchitis in Fowls. 495. Milk Cooling on California Dairy Farms. 496. Precooling of Fresh Fruits and Tem- peratures of Refrigerator Cars and Warehouse Rooms. 487. 489. 490. 491. 492. 493. No. 497. 498. 499. 500. 501. 502. 503. 504. 505. 506. 507. 508. 509. A Study of the Shipment of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables to the Far East. Pickling Green Olives. Air Cleaners for Motor Vehicles. Dehydration of Grapes. Marketing California Apples. Wheat (Series on California Crops and Prices). St. Johnswort on Range Lands of California. Economic Problems of California Agri- culture. (A Report to the Governor of California.) The Snowy Tree Cricket and Other Insects Injurious to Raspberries. Fruit Spoilage Disease of Figs. Cantaloupe Powdery Mildew in the Imperial Valley. The Swelling of Canned Prunes. The Biological Control of Mealybugs Attacking Citrus. CIRCULARS No. No. 115. Grafting Vinifera Vineyards. 279. 127. House Fumigation. 178. The Packing of Apples in California. 282. 212. Salvaging Rain-Damaged Prunes. 230. Testing Milk, Cream, and Skim Milk 288. for Butterfat. 290. 232. Harvesting and Handling California 292. Cherries for Eastern Shipment. 294. 239. Harvesting and Handling Apricots and 296. Plums for Eastern Shipment. 240. Harvesting and Handling California 301. Pears for Eastern Shipment. 304. 241. Harvesting and Handling California 305. Peaches for Eastern Shipment. 307. 244. Central Wire Bracing for Fruit Trees. 308. 245. Vine Pruning Systems. 310. 248. Some Common Errors in Vine Pruning 'and Their Remedies. 311. 249. Replacing Missing Vines. 312. 253. Vineyard Plans. 257. The Small-Seeded Horse Bean (Vicia faba var. minor). 316. 258. Thinning Deciduous Fruits. 259. Pear By-Products. 317. 261. Sewing Grain Sacks. 262. Cabbage Production in California. 318. 265. Plant Disease and Pest Control. 319. 266. Analyzing the Citrus Orchard by Means 320. of Simple Tree Records. 269. An Orchard Brush Burner. 321. 270. A Farm Septic Tank. 276. Home Canning. 278. Olive Pickling in Mediterranean Csuntries. The Preparation and Refining of Olive Oil in Southern Europe. Prevention of Insect Attack on Stored Grain. Phylloxera Resistant Vineyards. The Tangier Pea. Alkali Soils. Propagation of Deciduous Fruits. Control of the California Ground Squirrel. Buckeye Poisoning of the Honey Bee. Drainage on the Farm. Liming the Soil. American Foulbrood and Its Control. Cantaloupe Production in California. The Operation of the Bacteriological Laboratory for Dairy Plants. The Improvement of Quality in Figs. Principles Governing the Choice, Oper- ation, and Care of Small Irrigation Pumping Plants. Electrical Statistics for California Farms. Fertilizer Problems and Analysis of Soils in California. Termites and Termite Damage. Pasteurizing Milk for Calf Feeding. Preservation of Fruits and Vegetables by Freezing Storage. Treatment of Lime-induced Chlorosis with Iron Salts. 16m-10,'31