Golden Chinquapin (Chrysolepis chrysophylla )

Golden Chinquapin has striking leaves, often with golden fuzz underneath, and even more striking seeds, forming a spiky mass several inches around. Catkin flowers quickly transform into brown seeds, which stay on the plant and on the ground nearby for a long time.

January	April		July		October
Leaves always present
Golden fuzzy leaf bottoms always present on most leaves
	White catkins	Green fruit		Brown spiny seed balls

Field ID Tips

· Leaves, about 3”. Long and pointed.

· Underside of leaf is fuzzy and bright yellow.

· Seed structure is large and distinctive.

Leaves often show a golden yellow fuzz.

Flower catkins.

Big spiky seed balls.

Links:

Cal Photos

Wikipedia

Mountain Home to West Point Shrubs

Chinquapin seeds are spiky and several inches across. The most common way I find chinquapin is by noticing these seed balls on the ground

Catkins receding, leaving a three-part fruit, covered with spines, that will soon turn brown.