Although restricted in its range to the Chihuahuan Desert, ceniza,
sometimes called silverleaf, is so spectacular when in blossom that it
invariably attracts attention and arouses interest. The small, abundant,
ash-gray leaves give this 3- to 4-foot shrub a distinguished appearance
throughout the year, but when it suddenly bursts into bloom, usually in
September, it becomes a thing of rare beauty. It is so sensitive to
moisture that it may blossom a few hours after a soaking rain, which
gives rise to the popular belief that it can forecast wet weather and in
consequence it is sometimes called “barometer bush.”
_Leucophyllum frutescens_ Figwort Family
[Illustration: CENIZA]