Creosote Bush

After a rain these plants give off a musty, resinous odor which is the basis of the Mexican name, hediondilla (freely translated, "little stinker"). Also known gobernadora. A member of the Caltrop Family.

This many-branched shrub can grow to 10' but most found along the drive, and they are quite common, are under 6'.
Creosote blooms periodically with peaks in March-April and November-December. Flowers are yellow, 5-petaled; followed by a globe-shaped, fuzzy white capsule.
Its varnish-like coating on leaves slows evaporation and conserves water.
Parts of the plants were used medicinally by Native Americans. Resin from branches was used as glue.