What is Cheesebush

Below is a transcription of the above sign found at the Valley of Fire Visitor Center.

Cheesebush or White Burro Bush or Bush Hops – Hymenoclea salsola

ADAPTATION FOR SURVIVAL

Very thin, threadlike leaves coated with resinous substance to decrease water loss.

Leaves drop in hot months, and plant appears dead.

COMMUNITY

Adapts to a wide variety of environments: Creosote Bush Scrub, Shadescale Scrub, Pinyon-juniper Woodland, Arroyo Woodland, Desert Rural Ruderal, Alkaline Sink Scrub

BLOOMS

March-June

HABITAT

Common alkaline soils, sandy washes

ELEVATION

Low to high desert washes, disturbed areas

TYPE OF SOIL

Alkaline

SOURCE OF WATER

Surfaces, in drainages

HEIGHT

3 to 6 ft (1 to 2 m)

POLLINATION

Wind, insects

COMMENTS

Crushed leaves smell like cheese, giving plant its name.

Flowers small, but fruits are interesting and when numerous are quite showy.

White or pink-tinged scales surround the young fruit like a small rosebud.