Tarweed (Madia species)
Tarweed collected from above road, just above Bobcat Corner, Aug 26, 2006. Commonly found, on very arid grassy hillsides, such as South Flat at base of Van Horn Trail. These specimens were growing through some downed branches, and were larger than normally seen. Although they grow on arid hillsides, they quickly wilt after picked. Rather strong odor and very sticky stems, with a yellow-greenish hue.
Tarweed collected from above road, just above Bobcat Corner, Aug 26, 2006. Detail of leaf. Species undetermined, as there are many Madia species and they are difficult to differentiate. After spending about an hour on the topic, I believe we have either Slender Madia or Common Madia (Madia elegans). See California Academy of Sciences.