Verbesina rothrockii  Rothrock Crownbeard
PERENNIAL.  Leaves opposite, clasping the stem, not stalked.  Leaves are arrow-shaped, with widely spaced irregular teeth and a prominent midvein, and feel rough like sandpaper.  Stems do not branch, and flowers are borne singly on long stalks.  Flowers large (to 5 cm), golden yellow, blooming April-May.  Prominent round seedheads.  Seeds flat, black with broad white wings, 1 cm long.  The base of the seed is not noticeably notched.  Common in the Empires along washes, usually on dirt banks, gravel bars, or other deep, loose sediment.
FAMILY:  Asteraceae (Composite or Daisy Family)