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Creosote Bush
Creosote Bush, Gobernadora
Scientific Name: Larrea tridentata (Sesse & Moçiño ex DC.) Coville
Synonym: Larrea divaricata, Covillea divaricata, Zygophyllum tridentatum
Family: Zygophyllaceae Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 10-13,19
USDA: 7-11
Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 0°F (-18°C)
Heat Tolerance: Excellent
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Origin: Southwestern USA, south to central Mexico, southern South America
Growth Habits: Straggly evergreen shrub, slowly growing to 6-8 feet tall (2
m), 6 feet wide (1.8 m); alternate leaves with 2 leaflets, 0.5 to 1 inch
long (12-25 mm), with a creosote fragrance when wet
Watering Needs: Can survive without any added water, with some water it
takes a rounded, denser shape
Propagation: Seeds, transplanting of existing plant is difficult, as is
growing it from seed.
The secretion on the leaves, give them a varnished look. It is responsible
for the creosote smell, particularly when wet. The Creosote Bush also
release herbicides that prevent most plants to grow below it.
Larrea divaricata, here considered a synonym, is the name given to the South
American members of the species.
Blooming Habits:
Large number of small yellow flowers, up to 0.8 inch wide (2 cm) mostly in
spring, followed by a silvery, fuzzy 5-celled seed pod, 0.25 inch in
diameter (6 mm).
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