Cliffrose

Purshia mexicana The Cliffrose or Bitterbrush is a rose-type plant Native to the Western US. In many areas, it is classified as an Endangered Species. It is a small evergreen shrub with white to pale yellow or pink flowers and tiny leaves with somewhat sticky hairs. The roots have the ability to fix Nitrogen from the air, reducing it's fertilizer needs. It grows well in dry, rocky areas at elevations above 3,000 feet. It blooms from Spring until Summer, and then if Summer rains are plentiful, the plants may bloom again. Native cultures used Cliffrose for a variety of purposes. The Navajo used the shredded bark to make padding, mats and clothing. When added to yucca fibers, it made cordage. "Female" prayersticks are made from Cliffrose wood, while "male" prayersticks are made from mountain mahogany shrubs. The thin, straight branches were used for making arrows, and a yellow brown or tan dye was made from the leaves and stems when mixed with pounded juniper branches. The Hopi made a medicine from the leaves and twigs and as a healing agent for sores and wounds. Growing Height: 8-20" Min Yearly Rainfall: 8" Seeds Per Pound: 58,000 Acre Rate: 6-7 lbs.