Utah State University

• Utah Native Plant Index
• Utah State University
  • A-Z Index
  • Calendars
  • My USU
  • Contact
  • People/Web Search
• Plants, Soils and Biometerology
• Horticulture at USU
• Utah Botanical Center
• Native Plant Nurseries
• Utah's Choice

Purshia mexicana

Common Name Cliffrose
Family Rosaceae (Rose Family)

Description

Cliffrose and Apache Plume are closely related shrubs, and like Apache Plume, Cliffrose bears feathery seedheads at the end of its flowering cycle. The small leaves are deeply lobed and give the shrub a somewhat soft appearance.

Range

Occurs throughout the southern regions of the intermountain west. Elevation: 4,500 - 7,000ft.

Culture 

Prefers gravelly conditions, but can adapt to a wide array of soils. Likes full sun, can become unruly under high water situations. Zones 4 - 7.

Value

The southern cousin of Purshia tridentata (bitterbrush) that the greater assets of evergreen, pleasantly fragrant foliage and flowers that can reach a gnarled form up to 10' high. A very nice place to add some vertical texture to the low-water landscape. Uncommon in trade.

Propagation

Seeds in naturally in the fall. To start seed indoors soak seed in hydrogen peroxide for 24 hours. Rinse and cold treat for 60 days (not too moist or they will rot). Sow into container and cover to depth. To start outdoors sow seed in the desired location and cover with ¼" soil. Water in. Start in the fall. Look for results the following spring