Cheesebush or Burrobrush, Ambrosia salsola

Closeup photo of Hymenoclea salsola
Ambrosia salsola, formerly Hymenoclea salsola

Most of the year, Cheesebush is a green plant that sits quietly and draws little attention. When it is in flower, it is hard not to notice it.

Cheesebush is not to be confused with Cheeseweed, Malva parviflora, a Malvaceae which is commonly found in places west of the desert.

Note: Books on desert plants may list Cheesebush as Hymenoclea salsola. The name change to Ambrosia salsola is fairly recent.

Cheesebush is a member of the Sunflower Family, Asteraceae.

Photo of a Cheesebush