[Illustration: Calliandra eriophylla]
Common names: FAIRYDUSTER, FALSE-MESQUITE, (_MESQUITILLA_),
HAIRY-LEAVED CALLIANDRA
Arizona, California and Texas deserts: (_Calliandra eriophylla_).
Pink. February-May.
Pea family. Size: From a few inches up to 3½ feet tall.
This straggling, perennial shrub with fine, Mimosa-type leaves is common
over much of the desert, lining banks of arroyos or dotting open
hillsides. It is particularly conspicuous when in flower because of the
spectacular tassel-like blossoms which are white and scarlet, or
generally pink in appearance. The small leaves are nutritious and are
highly palatable to deer and to livestock. The petite Fairyduster adds
much to the color and springtime atmosphere of the desert. It is
particularly noticeable along the base of the Tanque Verde hills in
Saguaro National Monument.