Brittlebush

Brittlebush (Encelia farinosa)

This perineal shrub with silvery, velvety leaves and bright yellow daisy-like flowers, blooms in the winter and spring. 

Ecology: Early nectar for native bees; stabilizes disturbed soils, spreading prolifically after rains, and often dying back after a dry, hot summer.

A resin can be made from near the base of the plant that can be used as a glue, and has also been used to waterproof containers. The fragrant resin can also be burned as incense. And resin from the upper stem has been used by children of the Tohono O’odham Nation as a type of chewing gum.  

Fast Facts

  • Early/abundant floral resources for native bees and insects after winter rains — important spring nectar/pollen source.
  • Produces a persistent soil seed bank; readily colonizes open ground after disturbance, aiding rapid revegetation.
  • Provides winter and drought cover for small animals and helps stabilize sandy soils.
PUBLIC NOTICE

*****Liberty Wildlife Cannot Take Ducks, Geese or Lovebirds at this time *****

Liberty Wildlife is following proper protocols and taking precautions to prevent the spread of the avian flu in our facility and the community. Currently, we have been advised to not take any waterfowl (ducks or geese) to help minimize exposure to other animals. All waterfowl that are sick/injured should be transported to our partner Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG).

Veterinary Emergency Group
7210 W Ray Rd                              2196 E Camelback
Chandler, AZ 85226                     Phoenix, AZ 85016
(I-10 & Ray Rd)                             (Biltmore Area)

You can also call East Valley Wildlife to ask their current availability for ducks/geese: 480-814-9339

Crystal’s Critter Haven is another resource: Text  480-220-6930 with a picture of the animal and cross-streets

We also have been advised to not take in lovebirds anymore. Please try any of the groups above. Thank you for understanding.

Native American Wildlife Celebration VEG website VEG map

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