The Bladderpod (Peritoma arborea) is a distinctive plant with a strange rubber-like odor. It has unusual yellow flowers and large fruits that, when dry, resemble a paper lantern that rattles as the seeds inside the dried fruit jangle around.

This unique species of Bladderpod can be found along coastal bluffs usually a short distance from the ocean in areas exposed to the sun, as well as inland desert habitats, but not in between.

To see additional photos and learn more about the Bladderpod, please visit the California State University Channel Islands’ website.

PHOTO CREDIT: Robb Hannawacker, National Park Service