(Zygophyllaceae)

Flowers are organized alphabetically by genus and species. Hover over a photo series to control the images.

Caltrops (Kallstroemia)

Creosote Bush (Larrea tridentata)

The south end of Albuquerque is at the extreme northern end of the range for creosote bush in New Mexico. That will change, however. Creosote bush has been spreading for centuries (including in response to overgrazing), and will continue to do so as global warming pushes less hardy species northwards and into higher elevations.

Puncturevine (Tribulus terrestris)

Look for a ground-hugging mat of small, finely divided leaves, along with yellow five-petaled flowers. The fruit is hard and spiny enough to puncture bicycle tires. It's also a good reason to not go barefoot in Albuquerque city parks.