It is a rare species, endemic to only seven sites in Fresno and Madera Counties, where it grows in chaparral between 340–1340 m altitude between the San Joaquin and King rivers. It is well adapted to wildfire, reproducing by stump sprouts after burning; natural seedlings are rare. Note that Carpenteria should not be confused with the similarly spelled Carpentaria, a genus of palms native to northern Australia.