When the cactus dies the ribs can be used for building materials, such as fencing. Another plant that has numerous uses and overlaps the different desert regions is the mesquite. This plant has a very extensive root system which can go as deep as sixty feet. The beans are edible and are consumed by both people and animals alike. The wood is used for building and firewood.
Nothing smells better than cooking over a mesquite fire.
The cactus and mesquite are examples of plants that are drought resistant. Another such plant is the creosotebush. This shrub is probably one of the most successful and widespread of the desert plants. These plants have a smelly resin that coats their small leaves to reduce moisture loss. The creosote bush was the Indians' pharmacy and used for all sorts of ailments.