Giant bursage

Ambrosia ambrosioides

Drought tolerant sprawling shrub from 3-6 ft. tall with small inconspicuous yellowish-green flowers, blooming February to May. Prefers sandy soils in riparian areas, washes, canyons and disturbed sites in the deserts of northern Mexico, California and Arizona; up to 5,500 ft. elevation. Widespread throughout its range. Not palatable to livestock or wildlife, but useful for erosion control and ecosystem restoration. Host plant for numerous insects. Highly allergenic pollen.