Seaside gilia is a densely glandular, annual forb with a faint skunk-like odor. The stems are 8-30 cm, with a short main stem and long-decumbent branches. The 1-2 pinnate-lobed leaves (lobes 2-5 mm) are somewhat fleshy and arranged in a basal rosette; upper leaves are shorter and palmate. Inflorescences are in clusters with 2-6 flowers and pedicels 2-5 mm long. Calyces are 4-6 mm long (8-11 mm while in fruit) and glandular, with the purple or colorless membranes narrower than lobes. The funnel-shaped corolla is 8-11 mm long with a yellow tube, pale yellow throat with paired purple spots, and lobes 3-5 mm wide, obovate, and blue-white. The stamen and style reach approximately the base of the corolla lobes; pollen is white. Fruits are 7-9 mm and narrowly ovoid to ellipsoid.
Occurs in sand dunes and flats along lake edges and coastline as part of the coastal strand plant community.
Limiting factors
Threatened by development, human recreation, encroachment of native species, and invasive plants. The species is highly vulnerable to climate change due to predicted increased variability in temperatures.
Data gaps
Assess genetic diversity and reproductive success of known populations. Research is needed on the genetics, ecology, and annual fluctuations of populations. Develop seeding protocols.
Conservation actions
Control plant encroachment on dune habitats. Limit disturbance at known sites. Monitor existing populations. Collect and bank seed as insurance against local extirpation or extinction and to use in ex-situ research. Conduct ex-situ seed/plug production for introduction and augmentation efforts.
Key reference or plan
Marshall, DA, and J Brown. 2023. 2023 listing status assessment for Gilia millefoliata (seaside gilia). Oregon Department of Agriculture, Salem, Oregon.
