Creosote Bush
Larrea tridentata
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Zygophyllaceae
- Genus:
- Larrea
- Species:
- Larrea tridentata
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Shrub
- Height:
- 8-12 ft
- Light Requirements:
- Part Shade
- Drought Tolerance:
- High
- Bloom Months:
- mar, apr, may, jun, jul, aug, sep
- Bloom Colors:
- Yellow
- Evergreen Shrub:
- Yes
- Landscaping Shrub:
- Yes
Native Range
United States: Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, Texas, Utah
Keystone Species Ranking
- Bee Keystone:
- ★★★☆☆ Based on number of native bee species using this genus for pollen and nectar (Source: National Wildlife Federation)
Host Plant for Caterpillars
Mead's bagworm moth (Thyridopteryx meadii), Semiothisa colorata, Sparganothis larreana
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- poor, sandy, well-drained soil
- pH:
- 7.0 - 8.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to very dry
- Notes:
- thrives in arid desert conditions
Germination Information
Pre-treatment: Seeds are soaked in water for 24 to 48 hours to remove any inhibitors and allow full imbibition of seeds prior to sowing.
Source: npn.rngr.net