Artemisia tridentata
Big Sagebrush
There are several species of Big Sagebrush that occur in the West. It is arguably one of the most important native shrubs, as it provides habitat and is a food source for everything from invertebrates up to pronghorn antelope and elk. Read more on the USDA website.
Ericameria and Chrysothamnus species
Rabbitbrush
These look-a likes are one of the first species to recolonize disturbed sites and are excellent late season pollinator plants. Native bees and honeybees like the Grey Rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa) in particular. They provide cover for birds and rodents and are a winter food source for jack rabbits.
Ribes cereum
Wax Currant
A deciduous shrub with a delicate branching habit, providing a good food source as well as cover for birds. It commonly occurs on dry, open slopes or rocky ridges and is drought tolerant.
Cercocarpus ledifolius
Curl-leaf Mountain Mahogany
Considered a very large shrub or small tree, this broadleaf evergreen grows at a snails pace, but tolerates extreme heat and drought conditions. It is long lived and takes on a gnarled appearance with age.
Philadelphus lewisii
Mock Orange
This beautiful and fragrant shrub can be found from the rivers edge to dry, rocky slopes. It has a graceful, arching form and attracts numerous pollinators and provides food and cover for a variety of birds and small mammals.
Chamaebatiaria millefolium
Desert Sweet (Fernbush)
This highly aromatic shrub has delicate fern like leaves and produces numerous white flowers in late summer. It is an excellent late season pollinator for both native and honey bees and thrives in hot, sunny locations.