Eriogonum jamesii Benth.

By Michele Craig, Native Plants Class 2003
Common names: antelope sage
Family: Polygonaceae
Synonymy: Gutierrezia linoides, G. linearifolia, G. lepidota, G. diversifolia. (2)
Etymology: Derives common names of turpentine and stink weed from the resinous, heavy odor. Broom weed refers to the fact that Indians use its stems for sweeping. Sheep bitten by snakes are treated by a poultice made of the leaves.

Identification
Growth form: Short mat 2-5 cm high with woody base. (1,2)
Roots:
Leaves: Narrow 2.5cm- 7.5cm long dotted with resinous glands. (1)
Stems: Highly branched.
Inflorescence/flowers: Golden yellow flowers borne in numerous flat-topped clusters.
Fruit:
Similar Species:

Ecology
Life History: Long lived perennial.
Native/introduced: Native.
Photosynthetic Pathway:
Phenology: Blooms from May to November.
Distribution: West to California, north to Canada, dry sunny locations in well-drained soil, 4,000’ to 10,000’.

Uses
Several species of birds and small animals use seeds and flowerheads and leaves as food. Mule deer and mountain sheep browse on leaves.

References
1. Elmore, Francis H., Shrubs and Trees of the Southwest Uplands, pp. 111

2. http://plants.usda.gov/ , November 27, 2003.