More Desert Plants

Posted by Robert Dailey Apr 18, 2006

APACHE PLUME.

Apache plume (fallugia paradoxa) is a showy, medium-sized shrub that grows in many desert locations above 3,500 feet. I've found it growing in arid high deserts and along the Rio Grande. I've got several growing in my garden. In bloom, they become covered with white blossoms that have five rose-like petals. The flowers are followed by a wonderful, willowy display of feathery pink seed plumes.

Native Americans used Apache plume for arrow shafts. Some made a brew from the leaves to promote hair growth. Others ate the leaves right off the plant to prevent stomach gas.

BROOM SNAKEWEED (Gutierrezua sarothrae).

Generally this plant is considered a perennial. It is a many-stemmed, very small shrub growing to about a foot tall. High resin content makes the green foliage look waxy. In the fall, tiny yellow blooms garnish the plant.

Broom snakeweed is still used by the Hopi who brew the foliage to counteract gastrointestinal problems. The Navajo use parts of the plant to treat headaches, nervousness, heal cuts or reduce swelling from insect bites.

MORMON TEA (Ephedra torryana).

Bearing cones, not fruit, this densely-branched desert shrub grows thin, green, finely-furrowed stems that are jointed and grow in clusters that look broomlike.

The stems are roasted and brewed for tea. It is also used to treat kidney problems and as a cough medicine. The seeds are roasted or ground to meal.