Appropriately named, this open shrub has grayish green leaves and stiff, thorn-tipped branches. With inconspicuous, pale yellow-green flowers in late spring, the pea-size fruits that follow are a showy blue-black. These fruits appeal to birds, and the thorny branches are ideal protection for nesting. Graythorn is a fine backdrop for bold plantings of succulents.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsThis Southwestern U.S. native has bird-attracting fruit and thorny branches that make good nesting sites. It is a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant shrub.
CareGrow in full sun and well-drained soil. Beware of the thorns.
ProblemsInfrequent.
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- Zones : 10, 11, 8, 9
- Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
- Plant Width : 3 to 6 feet
- Tolerance : Drought Tolerant
- Moisture : Dry to Medium
- Light : Full Sun
- Flower Color : Green, Yellow
- Bloom Time : Late Spring
- Maintenance : Low
- Characteristics : Showy Fruit
- Plant Type : Shrubs
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
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