Snakeweed or Broomweed
| Botanical Name | Gutierrezia sarothrae |
| Common Name | Snakeweed or Broomweed |
| Family | Asteraceae - Aster |
| Description | A short-lived perennial subshrub with a woody crown and tap root. The stems are covered with a sticky substance. Many slender, green branches form a round shrublet with flower heads in loose clusters. |
| Mature Size | 12"-24" |
| Bloom | August-September. Each flower head has tiny yellow disk flowers and tiny yellow ray flowers. The fruit is seed-like. |
| Interesting Facts | It is a prolific seed-producer. One plant can produce up to 22,000 seeds. It is toxic to most ungulates and is one of the first species to establish after a prolonged drought. |
| Traditional and Medicinal Uses | A strong, black infusion has been used to rub on rheumatic joints. A respected, almost revered remedio among Hispanic New Mexicans is a tea of the herb sometimes consumed while bathing in it. In former days Native Americans used it to treat diarhhea, coughs and insect bites. Twigs are still used as brooms. |
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Photo for SFBG by Janice Tucker
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Photo for SFBG by Janice Tucker
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