Creosote bush (Larrea tridentata) is an evergreen flowering shrub, prominent in the deserts of western North America. It is slow-growing, with dark green leaves and the yellow flowers blooming in spring. The whole plant exhibits a characteristic odor of creosote (especially when wet), from which the common name derives.
This plant takes full sun and is extraordinarily tolerant of drought, due to its deep root system. It prefers well-draining, rocky soil but tolerates saline or alkaline soils. It reproduces by seed and also by sending up new shoots from the roots. The latter results in the creation of clonal rings, some of which are among the oldest known plants at around 11,000 years old. Galls may form by the activity of the creosote gall midge. The plant’s dramatic shape can look striking in front of a wall or other simple background. It can be pruned in late summer or early winter.
Numerous insects are attracted to the flowers. Various birds are attracted to the seeds.