Another prevalent flower in the Death Valley area during the spring is notch-leaved phacelia (Phacelia crenulata). Although its clusters of purple flowers look quite attractive, it's best not to touch this little beauty as it can cause skin irritation. In fact, the form of dermatitis it causes is quite comparable to that caused by the notorious poison oak. It's also a good idea to avoid smelling this plant since it produces a foul odor. So, when you come across this plant "you can look, but you'd better not touch" or smell! By the way, notch-leaved phacelia is sometimes referred to as heliotrope phacelia. Further, it is interesting to note that phacelia means "cluster" or "bundle" in Greek.

Golden carpet (Gilmania luteola) is a low growing annual that is found only in Death Valley. Some years it doesn't grow at all, not even in Death Valley, since the seeds stay dormant during years with little rainfall. In fact, the seeds are capable of surviving several dry years before germinating in response to sufficient precipitation. Although this plant is exceedingly rare, it is not considered endangered, but it is watched rather closely! Golden carpet is a member of the Buckwheat Family, which has many prevalent members in the Death Valley area. Many people are familiar with the swollen flower stalks of desert trumpet (Eriogonum inflatum).