This large, upright evergreen shrub is native to the western U.S. and Mexico, occuring on dry slopes and mesas from 3000 to 9500 feet. It has leathery, aromatic oval leaves and distinctive shaggy red bark. Long-lived and slow growing, it develops very hard wood that Native Americans used for various tools and weapons. Inconspicuous creamy white flowers in the spring are followed by feathery corkscrew-shaped fruit in the fall and winter. Provide good drainage, and be careful not to over water.