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White Bursage

Ambrosia dumosa

In stock

1 gallon; 5 gallon

Plant Care

Native region:

Local Native

Water needs:

Very Low

Exposure:

Mature size:

Growth rate:

Full Sun

2-3'x2-3'

Fast

Flower color:

Flower season:

Pruning:

Cream

Winter

Slight shearing during the fall before the onset of winter growth is used to increase landscape symmetry.

Wildlife

Monarchs:

Nectar pollinators:

Nighttime pollinators:

Rabbit resistant:

Yes

Known by the common names burrobush, burro-weed or white bursage, it is native to the creosote-bush scrub community in the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. A tough shrubby plant that offers a delicate but full and bushy form with unusual whitish gray color. Adds interesting gray foliage color in landscapes. It is a revegetation staple in areas where it is the main understory plant. The insignificant flowers produce abundant pollen, which can be a nuisance for allergy sufferers. The flowers are followed by prickly burs. It requires well-drained soil, full sun exposures. Occasional water during the winter may be applied if winter rains fail to materialize in order to invigorate. Responds well to supplemental water especially during the summer; however, too much extra water will encourage excessive growth.
Ambrosia dumosa is an important browse species, particularly during drought conditions when other more palatable species are not available. Seeds of Ambrosia dumosa may be eaten by birds and small mammals; many desert rodents, including kangaroo rats, black-tailed jackrabbits and sheep are known to feed on burrobush seeds. Ambrosia dumosa flowers may be visited by small butterflies, bees and other small insects.

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on my research from reliable sources, observations I have made of plants growing in my, and other gardens I have visited, and observations of the plants in their native habitats. I would appreciate your feedback and experience to help me educate others!

Cacti: In my experience, cacti are much happier in the filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Colors are more vibrant and they bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you pay attention to how our native barrel and beavertail opuntia grow in the wild, it is frequently tucked in the rocks under creosote or another shrub.

Light Requirements: I have found that in our desert (Sonoran/Colorado) “full sun” plants can take and appreciate the late afternoon filtered sun, especially in the hot summer months.