DESCRIPTION: Shrub to 10'. Twigs are dense, green, and sticky. Leaves are simple, small, and linear. Dioecious (male and female flowers on separate plants). Flowers bloom in the fall and winter (Sept. - Feb.) and are whitish and small (to 3/8"). Seeds have white threads to keep airborne (sometimes has to suffice for "Tucson snow"). Compositae (Sunflower) Family.
NATURAL HISTORY: This plant establishes itself quickly in disturbed soils and is commonly seen along roadways and yards in Tucson. Named after the fact that the branches make good brooms.