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Asteraceae (Compositae)

A small, rounded shrub, shorthorn zexmenia grows among the desert scrub in caliche or limestone soils of canyons and rocky banks in the Western Rio Grande Plains and Trans-Pecos, and also Mexico and Suthern New Mexico. It is usually a perennial herb, but as it ages the branches become woody and much-branched near the base. It is distinguished by its small oval leaves that are very rough to the touch because they are covered with short, stiff hairs. Single yellow flowers appear from summer through fall, followed by fruits that are flattened achenes with corky wings along the edges.

Plant Habit or Use: small shrub

Exposure: sun

Flower Color: yellow

Blooming Period: summer
fall

Fruit Characteristics: flattened achenes with wings

Height: to 3 feet

Width: to 3 feet

Plant Character:

Heat Tolerance: very high

Water Requirements:

Soil Requirements: alkaline
adaptable

USDA Hardiness Zone: 8

Additional Comments: