Flourensia cernua, commonly known as American tarwort or tarbush, is a deciduous shrub native to the Chihuahuan Desert, specifically found in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and northern to central Mexico. It typically grows up to 7 feet tall and can be found in desert scrub and semi-arid grasslands, often forming dense thickets. The plant is characterized by its resinous, aromatic nature and has thick, oval, alternately arranged leaves that are a gray-green color. During late summer to fall, it produces small, yellow, disc-shaped florets that are not particularly showy, followed by hairy achenes as fruit.

American tarwort is valued for its adaptability to arid conditions and is used in xeriscaping and habitat restoration projects. It is also of interest for its medicinal properties in traditional Mexican medicine and is being researched for its potential as supplemental forage for livestock, despite its toxicity in large amounts. In cultivation, tarbush requires minimal water, thrives in well-drained soils, and prefers full sun exposure. It is relatively low-maintenance but may need occasional pruning to manage its spread.CC BY-SA 4.0