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Cheesebush

Hymenoclea salsola

true

1 gallon; 5 gallon

Cheesebush

In stock

4'x8'

Sizes:

Cheesebush – Hymenoclea salsola

Also known as white burrobrush and desert pearl, Cheesebush is a perennial shrub native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, including our local desert. It thrives in sandy soils, alkaline environments, and disturbed sites such as washes, roadsides, and alluvial fans.

This shrub can reach up to 8 feet tall, forming a sprawling, airy structure with thin branches and narrow, needlelike leaves. When crushed, the foliage releases a pungent, cheeselike scent — the source of its common name. In spring, the plant becomes covered in abundant white to pale yellow flowers, which are followed by pearly, winged fruits that range from white and yellow to blush pink.

Highly adapted to arid conditions, Cheesebush is both drought- and heat-tolerant once established. Its deep roots help stabilize sandy soils, making it an important pioneer species in disturbed habitats. It is evergreen to semi-evergreen, depending on rainfall and temperature.

Wildlife Value:

Nectar Source: Attracts native bees, honey bees, and a variety of small pollinating insects.

Bird Resources: Seeds; insect prey; nesting habitat in dense branches.

Bird Species: Commonly used by verdin, black-throated sparrows, and cactus wrens for foraging and cover.

Other: Provides habitat for small mammals and reptiles seeking shelter in the branching structure.

Garden Use:
Cheesebush is a strong choice for habitat restoration, erosion control, or as a drought-tolerant background shrub in desert landscaping. Plant in full sun and well-draining soil; avoid overwatering, as it prefers dry conditions once established.

Plant Care

Native region:

Local Native

Water needs:

Low

Exposure:

Full Sun

Mature size:

4'x8'

Growth rate:

Moderate

Flower color:

Cream - Yellow

Flower season:

Spring

Pruning:

None

Cold Hardiness:

20 Degrees

Nectar-producing:

Yes

Attracts pollinators:

Yes

Nighttime pollinators:

Butterflies or Moths:

Monarchs:

Larval host:

Yes

Bees:

Yes

Bats:

Birds:

Yes

Nest site:

Yes

Nest materials:

Rabbit-resistant:

Yes

Tortoises:

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on reliable research, personal experience in my own garden, observations from other gardens I’ve visited, and time spent studying plants in their native habitats. I always welcome your feedback and experiences to help me continue educating others!

Cacti:
In my experience, cacti are much happier in filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Their colors are more vibrant and they tend to bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you look closely at how our native barrel cactus and beavertail prickly pear grow in the wild, you’ll often find them tucked among rocks or beneath the shelter of creosote and other shrubs.

⚠️ A note of caution: Cacti and succulents are often illegally collected from the wild, which not only damages plant populations but also disturbs entire ecosystems. In some cases, wild populations of cacti have even gone extinct because of this practice. When purchasing these plants, always be sure they’ve been legally obtained. Look for nursery-grown stock or plants with a native plant certification, and keep that documentation for your records.

Light Requirements:
In our desert (Sonoran/Colorado), “full sun” doesn’t always mean what you might think. Many so-called full-sun plants benefit from and actually appreciate some late-afternoon filtered light—especially during the intense summer months.