Trees that grow in the lower desert elevations, such as honey mesquite, Prosopis glandulosa, often grow no taller than shrubs and are easily confused with shrubs because they possess similar physical characteristics such as small leaves and sharp spines. Cottonwoods, sycamore, ash, and huisache also grow at lower elevations, and shade the Rio Grande Village and Cottonwood campgrounds and Daniels Ranch picnic area. Beyond these manicured areas, typical vegetation by the river also includes willows, ratama, and tamarisk or saltcedar.