Apache plume

Fallugia paradoxa

Multi-branched deciduous to semi-evergreen shrub from 2-8 ft. tall with white showy flowers developing into feathery clusters of pinkish plumes, blooming April to December. Adapted to dry, sandy or gravelly soils of canyon bottoms, washes, ephemeral waterways and alluvial plains; 3,000 to 9,000 ft. elevation. Occurs in all the southwestern deserts and into the grassland and woodland habitats of surrounding regions. Extensively used as a xeriscape ornamental in landscaping. Often rhizomatous and colonial. Vigorous root-sprouter after wildfire. Protects dry washes during flash flooding. Browsed somewhat my mule deer, more so by pronghorn. Provides nesting cover for small mammals and numerous ground dwelling birds. Attracts native bees and butterflies and is a caterpillar host of Neumoegen's buckmoth.