Thrift Mock Goldenweed
Stenotus armerioides

Family: Sunflower (Asteraceae)
AKA: Thrifty Goldenweed, Ring Grass Sunflower
Photo taken on: May 4, 2016
Location: Rim Vista Trail, Carson NF, NM
Life Zones: Foothills
Habitat: Open, gravelly areas, pinyon-juniper woodlands

Grows to 8" high in a circular pattern with bright green upright leaves around the dry dead leaves from previous years. Flowers are bright yellow with less than 15 petals and waxy green phyllaries.

Flora of North America reference.