 DESCRIPTION:
Small shrub to 2'. Leaves simple, toothed, triangular-shaped grayish-green
to 1.25" long (compare to Brittlebush
and Canyon Ragweed). Flowers bloom Dec. -
April and are greenish, small (0.25" or less), and without petals.
Fruit is a small bur that sticks to clothing (and fur). Compositae (Sunflower)
Family.
NATURAL HISTORY: This is probably the most common shrub in the desert
areas immediately around Tucson. Flowers are wind-pollinated and are one
of the major causes of hayfever in the spring (sometimes called "burrobush
or "rabbitbush" in pollen reports). Serves as a nurse plant
for many desert cactuses (e.g., Fishhook Pincushion)
and is commonly a host for Ratany. In times
of drought, Triangleleaf Bursage will drop its leaves (drought deciduous)
and appear dead. |
