Desert Shrubs Identification

Desert shrubs often have small, waxy leaves to avoid desiccation

The hot, dry habitat of the desert poses unique challenges for organisms living in it. One of the most pressing of those challenges for desert vegetation is how to avoid drying out. Desert shrubs often exhibit small or waxy leaves less prone to desiccation than wider, flatter shapes. Examining the leaves and flowers of a desert shrub is crucial for identifying the plant. Outlined here are four shrubs, which either commonly occur in North American deserts or have particular value for humans.

California Snake Brush

California snake brush (Colubrina californica) is a tall shrub with alternate simple leaves and greenish flowers that appear from June to August. It is commonly found on rocky slopes and in desert washes. Simple leaves are leaves with one blade attached to the stalk.

Canyon Ragweed

Canyon ragweed (Ambrosia ambrosioides) is a mid-height shrub commonly found in washes. It has alternate simple leaves and reddish green flowers that appear from March to May.

Creosote

Creosote (Larrea tridentate), a ubiquitous yellow-flowered, medium-sized shrub found on well-drained slopes and plains, may have anti-aging properties.

Guayule

Guayule (Parthenium argentatum) is a small shrub with yellowish-white flowers. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, natural latex derived from this shrub may provide an environmentally-friendly source of energy.

Threats

Desert ecosystems may be under increasing pressure because of drought predicted under climate change scenarios. Drought may increase the frequency and intensity of desert wildfires, which could favor annual plants and grasses by making it difficult for slower-growing shrubs to survive.

References

• California Snake Brush
• Canyon Ragweed
• "MedIndia Net;" Common Desert Shrub may Increase Longevity; June 2, 2007

Resources

• National Geographic
• USDA