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Lepidospartum spp.
scale broom
South-western United States and northern Mexico
Overview
Lepidospartum spp. is a small genus of three broom-like shrubs in the daisy family (Asteraceae), native to the arid south-western United States and northern Mexico. Plants form densely branched shrubs 1-3 m (3-10 ft) tall, with slender green, almost leafless twigs that carry out much of the photosynthesis, and tiny scale-like or thread-like leaves. The small flower heads contain only yellow disk florets, without ray petals, and are borne in clusters toward the branch tips. L. squamatum, California scalebroom, grows along desert washes and alluvial fans, while L. latisquamum and L. burgessii occupy desert scrub and gypsum soils. Flowering is mainly in late summer and autumn. The genus grows in sandy washes, floodplains, and dry slopes, with deep roots that reach moisture below the surface. Plants are adapted to drought and periodic flooding, resprouting after their tops are damaged by floods or fire. The broom-like, near-leafless habit reduces water loss but gives the shrubs a sparse, twiggy appearance outside the flowering season.
Native Range
Lepidospartum spp. is native to the south-western United States, including California, Nevada, Arizona, and Texas, and adjacent northern Mexico. Plants grow along desert washes, alluvial fans, and gypsum or sandy soils.Suggested Uses
Grown in desert and water-wise gardens, on slopes, and in revegetation of washes and disturbed arid sites. The autumn flowers attract pollinators, and plants are spaced 1.5-2.5 m (5-8 ft) apart in dry landscapes.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height3' - 10'
Width/Spread3' - 8'
Bloom Information
Flowering is mainly in late summer and autumn, roughly August through October, often following summer rains. The clustered yellow disk-flower heads open over several weeks and produce small tufted seeds carried by wind. Bloom timing shifts with moisture availability.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
green (scale-like, reduced)Growing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight