Desert Honeysuckle (Anisacanthus thurberi)

This plant forms an open shrub that may reach several feet in height. This one was encountered in Sierra Blanca Canyon Wash in late March, 2006, during severe drought. The character of the shrub (below left) reflects this condition, and the paleness of the flower color may as well (though the color ranges from red to orange). Note the tubular shape of the flowers, which may reach 2" in length, and which provide nectar for hummingbirds. Note also the two yellow stamens and long white pistil. (Click on the image above for a closeup.)

The leaves of this shrub (below right) are characteristically short-stemmed, and lanceolate l in shape. (Click on each image to enlarge it.)

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