About Crossosoma bigelovii S.Watson
Crossosoma bigelovii, commonly called ragged rockflower, is a shrub reaching a height of 1 to 2 metres (3.3 to 6.6 feet). It branches in an intricate pattern, with each branch ending in a thorn. Clusters of small, deciduous gray-green leaves line the branches, and these leaves are no longer than roughly 1.5 centimetres. Each inflorescence holds just one single flower, which has five white to purple-tinged petals about one centimetre long that narrow to claw-shaped bases. This species is occasionally used as an ornamental plant in habitat gardens and natural landscaping. It can be grown from seed in well-drained soil for desert butterfly gardens. It is difficult for the average homeowner to cultivate, as over-watering will kill the plant.
