Creosote Bush is the dominant shrub of the Mojave, Sonoran, and Chihuahuan deserts and one of the most drought-tolerant plants in North America. The distinctive creosote smell after desert rain is one of the most evocative natural scents in the American West. Clonal rings of creosote have been dated at up to 11,700 years old, making them among the oldest living organisms.
Habitat
Mojave, Sonoran, and Chihuahuan Desert flats and slopes
Diet
Seeds eaten by desert rodents; specialist Larrea bees collect pollen exclusively from it
How common
Common
Recent Creosote Bush sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Creosote Bush? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant or animal and get an instant ID, rarity, and field notes — building your personal nature collection as you go.
Get Huck — free