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An "Elfin Forest"

The Native Chaparral

Chaparral in Springtime

Questhaven is located in an area known locally as Elfin Forest, named for the small trees and shrubs referred to as chaparral.

Our trails wander through one of the most diverse stands of chaparral in San Diego County with species from four distinct chaparral associations known as southern maritime, southern mixed, chamise, and scrub oak chaparral.
Credits: Multiple Species Conservation Program (MSCP)

Southern maritime chaparral is comprised of species such as Wart-stemmed Ceanothus, Del Mar Manzanita, and Summer Holly. Southern mixed chaparral includes Chamise, Toyon, and Mission Manzanita. Chamise chaparral is characterized by large stands of Chamise and additional shrub species such as Mission Manzanita and our Lord's Candle (Chaparral Yucca). Scrub oak chaparral is dominated by scrub oak and understory species including poison oak and bedstraw. Our common rock outcrops provide distinct microhabitats that support plant species generally absent or uncommon throughout the surrounding chaparral.

Common Native Plants