This small shrub is native to much of the Southwest, at elevations from 500 to 3500 feet. It is a revegetation staple in areas where it is the main understory plant. The small gray leaves are covered with short white hairs. The insignificant flowers produce abundant pollen, which can be a nuisance for allergy sufferers. The flowers are follwed by prickly burs. It requires well-drained soil, full sun exposures, and some supplemental irrigation until established in the landscape.