This straggling, perennial shrub with fine, Mimosa-type leaves is common over much of the desert, lining banks of arroyos or dotting open hillsides. It is particularly conspicuous when in flower because of the spectacular tassel-like blossoms which are white and scarlet, or generally pink in appearance. The small leaves are nutritious and are highly palatable to deer and to livestock. The petite Fairyduster adds much to the color and springtime atmosphere of the desert. It is particularly noticeable along the base of the Tanque Verde hills in Saguaro National Monument.
Common names: SKELETONWEED, DESERT BUCKWHEAT Arizona desert: (_Eriogonum densum_). Pink. May-October. California desert: (_Eriogonum deflexum_). Pink-white. All year. Texas desert: (_Eriogonum polycladon_). Pink. June-November. Buckwheat family. Size: 6 inches to 30 inches high.
_Eriogonum_ is a very large genus, many species of which are common, and contains both annuals and biennials. Although the flowers are small, they are usually numerous and conspicuous. _E. densum_ is often very abundant in semi-desert areas, particularly along roadsides, where it is especially noticeable because it monopolizes the pavement edges for miles. It is extremely resistant to drought and flourishes when many other herbaceous plants have dried out completely. Although it bears flowers at almost any time throughout the year, during the autumn months the branches are loaded with myriads of pendant, pearly flowers the size of rice kernels. In winter, the stalks turn maroon in color and are quite conspicuous.
_E. polycladon_ is often so common along roadsides and desert washes as to color the landscape with its greyish stems and pink flowers.
_E. inflatum_ always attracts attention because of its swollen stems which resemble tall, slender bottles.
Common names: SALTCEDAR, TAMARISK Arizona, California, and Texas deserts: (_Tamarix pentandra_). Pink to white. March-August. Tamarix family. Size: Shrubs to trees up to 15-20 feet high.
Purists could object to inclusion of the Saltcedar in this booklet because it is not native. However, due to a number of importations (eight species being introduced by the Department of Agriculture between 1899 and 1915) and to its ability to spread rapidly under suitable conditions, Saltcedar is now widespread throughout the Southwest.