Cliff Rose Flower
Purshia stansburiana
Cliff Rose is a fragrant southwestern evergreen shrub with cream-yellow rose-like flowers and feathery seed plumes. Important for wildlife, erosion control, and honey production.
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Early summer (April-September, peak April-June)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: mountain avenss and big sagebrushs also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
An iconic plant of the American Southwest, Cliff Rose has sustained indigenous peoples and wildlife for millennia. The shreddy bark was spun and woven into clothing, kilts for Hopi snake priests, and sandals. The extremely fragrant flowers produce excellent honey that is highly sought by beekeepers - large stands can stretch for miles. The plant symbolizes the harsh beauty of the desert Southwest and the adaptation of life to challenging environments. It grows anchored to cliffsides, embodying tenacity and survival.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun
Water
Very low; highly drought-tolerant once established
Soil
Well-drained, Rocky, Gravelly, Sandy, Limestone-based, Shallow dry soils
Expert Growing Tips
Seeds require 4-8 week cold stratification
Plant in full sun with excellent drainage
Needs no supplemental water after establishment
Sparse fertilization and occasional deep watering promotes faster growth
Can be trained as small tree or multi-stemmed shrub
May form dense stands over time
Browsing by wildlife generally not harmful
Fire response variable - sprouting ability differs by population
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Xeriscape and desert gardens
- Screening and background plantings
- Wildlife habitat gardens
- Erosion control on slopes
- Native plant gardens
- Specimen plant or small tree
Traditional Uses
- Extremely bitter twigs and branches
- Used in traditional Native American medicine
- Navajo: leaves and stems for yellow-brown dye
- Hopi: plant wash for wounds
- Keres: stems for arrow shafts
- Roots capable of nitrogen fixation (symbiotic with Frankia bacteria)
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cliff Rose Flower
Is cliffrose the same as Apache plume?
No, although they look similar. Cliffrose (Purshia stansburiana) has cream-yellow flowers and belongs to the Purshia genus, while Apache Plume (Fallugia paradoxa) has white flowers and belongs to a different genus.
Why is it called quininebush?
Cliffrose is called quininebush because its foliage and twigs are extremely bitter-tasting, reminiscent of quinine. This bitterness helps deter browsing by some animals.
Is cliffrose good for wildlife?
Yes, Cliffrose is excellent for wildlife. It provides important browse for deer, elk, pronghorn, desert bighorn sheep, and livestock, especially in winter. The flowers produce excellent honey, and seeds feed small mammals and birds.
How fast does cliffrose grow?
Cliffrose grows moderately fast with proper care. It can reach 6-10 feet in several years with full sun, excellent drainage, and occasional deep watering, though it grows slower in harsher conditions.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Big Sagebrush
Artemisia tridentata
An iconic aromatic shrub of the American West with silvery-blue foliage and pungent scent. Dominates vast landscapes across the Great Basin and provides critical habitat for wildlife.
Desert Milkweed
Asclepias erosa
A resilient perennial milkweed native to the southwestern deserts with erect yellow-green stems and clusters of pale yellow to cream flowers. Critical host plant for monarch butterflies and essential for desert pollinator gardens.