Mexican Cliffrose
(Purshia mexicana)
Mexican Cliffrose (Purshia mexicana)
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Renee Grayson
CC BY 2.0
Image By:
Renee Grayson
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Copyright:
CC BY 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Renee Grayson | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ | Uploader: Monkeystyle3000 | Publisher: Flickr |


























Estimated Native Range
Summary
Purshia mexicana, commonly known as Mexican Cliffrose, is an evergreen shrub native to arid and semi-arid regions, including desert grasslands, pinyon-juniper woodlands, and rocky slopes in the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters) and a width of up to 3 feet (0.9 meters), with a rounded and spreading form. The Mexican Cliffrose is notable for its small, cream to yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, which are moderately showy and attract pollinators. The bark peels in long strips and is fibrous, which is sometimes used by Native Americans for weaving.
The plant is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to stabilize soils in erosion-prone areas. It is used in xeriscaping, as a screen or hedge, and in naturalistic plantings. Mexican Cliffrose thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established, making it ideal for low-maintenance landscapes. It prefers well-drained soils and is tolerant of a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.CC BY-SA 4.0
The plant is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to stabilize soils in erosion-prone areas. It is used in xeriscaping, as a screen or hedge, and in naturalistic plantings. Mexican Cliffrose thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established, making it ideal for low-maintenance landscapes. It prefers well-drained soils and is tolerant of a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
- Height: 8-10 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Cream, White
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Arid and semi-arid regions, including desert grasslands, pinyon-juniper woodlands, and rocky slopes
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: , Purshia mexicana, Cowania mexicana, Cowania purpurea, Cowania mexicana var. dubia, Greggia purpurea,
GBIF Accepted Name: Purshia mexicana (D.Don) S.L.Welsh