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Flower

Oleaceae

Rough menodora is a western subshrub inhabiting sandy, rocky or clayey mesas, desert grasslands and hills, and even oak woodlands in the western part of the Edwards Plateau and Trans-Pecos, ranging into New Mexico, west to California, north to Utah and Colorado, and south into Mexico, at elevations of 1500 to 7000 feet. In desert areas it may actually grow within and between low shrubs. This low, clumping perennial is mostly herbaceous, occasionally with a woody base. Lanceolate or variably shaped dull green, sandpapery leaves, numerous bright yellow, slender, upright stems and a short, pale yellow corolla tube characterize this long-blooming, very floriferous plant. Ornamentally, it offers a fine texture in the flower garden; a nice softening contrast to more sculptural desert plants. Several varieties of rough menodora have been identified. It provides good forage for livestock and wildlife.

Plant Habit or Use: perennial
small shrub

Exposure: sun
partial sun

Flower Color: yellow

Blooming Period: spring
summer

Fruit Characteristics: inflated capsule

Height: 1.5 to 2.5 feet

Width: 1 to 2 feet

Plant Character: deciduous

Heat Tolerance: high

Water Requirements:

Soil Requirements: alkaline

USDA Hardiness Zone: 6

Additional Comments: