Creosote Bush

Larrea tridentada

If you walk near a creosote bush shortly after a a rain, you will notice the distinctive odor of the resins in its tiny leaves. These resins protect the plant from the drying effects of the sun and wind and serve the same purpose as thorns in discouraging animals from eating it.

Although the foliage is meant to repel, the yellow flowers are not. When creosote bush blooms in spring, it is visited by bees and other insects for pollen and nectar.

Desert Indians used creosote bush to treat various ills including stiff limbs, sores, snake bites, menstrual cramps, and congestion. The sticky resins were used to mend pottery and fix arrow points.

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Also see:
Cactus-Yucca Scrub Habitat
Creosote Bush Scrub Habitat

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