Purple Threeawn - Actually, a tall grass, this plant grows in bunches along roadsides and other disturbed areas. It is named for the three purplish spikes or awns that grow from each seed head. Light green, arrow-shaped leaves are borne in pairs on the stems. This fragrant plant prefers sandy flats or dunes. This plant often grows in masses along roadsides.
Leaves are palmate or finger-shaped, extending in a circle from a central point.
Flowers are later replaced by fuzzy white seed heads. The plant's strong, resinous odor is similar to creosote, giving this shrub its name. Chuparosa - Also known as the hummingbird bush, this shrub's tubular red flowers are a favorite source of nectar and insects for hummingbirds. Growing up to six feet tall, this sprawling shrub is found along washes. The pads lack the long spines common to the prickly pear, but have tiny glochids, hard to remove if touched.